TCL’s NXTPaper 70 Pro Reintroduces ‘Max Ink Mode’

TCL is rolling out a fresh lineup of smartphones featuring its innovative NXTPaper screen technology, with the 70 Pro taking center stage. This device boasts a unique e-Ink-like matte display, all packed into a midrange package that includes full dust and water resistance. Plus, the fan-favorite Max Ink Mode returns, blending focus features with a minimalist launcher for an enhanced user experience.

The 70 Pro sports a 6.9-inch NXTPaper 4.0 display, delivering a textured finish that mimics the feel of paper, a refreshing change from typical glossy screens. Under the hood, it’s powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM, and carries an IP68 rating. The camera setup includes a 50-megapixel main shooter with optical image stabilization. In contrast, the 60 XE, the only smartphone from TCL’s previous generation available in the US in 2025, featured more basic specs with a 6000-series MediaTek chip. While TCL hasn’t announced a US price for the 70 Pro yet, its European price of €339 (around $400) suggests it will be more expensive than the $249 60 XE.

TCL is also branching out into the tablet market with the Note A1 NXTPaper, designed to compete with devices like the Remarkable. This isn’t your typical tablet; it’s more of a specialized note-taking gadget. It features an 11.5-inch display and runs a streamlined version of Android, customized to support only a select few apps, including Edge and Outlook, but no Play Store.

Most of your time will be spent in the note-taking interface, which includes a handy “circle to save” shortcut that adds content to a feature called the Inspiration Space. The device relies solely on Wi-Fi for connectivity, and it comes with a stylus known as the T-Pen Pro. This stylus provides haptic feedback that mimics the feel of different writing tools, making it feel like you’re using a “pencil,” although the absence of pressure sensitivity can detract from the experience. It also includes various AI writing and handwriting assistant tools, and notably, a physical home button adds a touch of convenience.

The Note A1 is priced at $549, but TCL is currently offering a discounted preorder option through Kickstarter, reducing the price to $419. It’s set to launch at the end of February.