IFA 2019: TCL launches own-brand smartphone

Two new Alcatel devices also announced

TCL Communication announced a new TCL smartphone at IFA 2019, alongside two new Alcatel smartphones.

The TCL Plex is intended to leverage the manufacturer’s screen technology that it uses for its TV screens for a smartphone audience.

“With the launch of the TCL PLEX, we not only want to bring our display know-how to more consumers and deliver on the key smartphone experiences – display, camera, user interface and design. We also want to open doors to a whole new future by introducing an ecosystem of smart devices that help our consumers lead more connected lives,” said TCL Communication general manager for global sales and marketing Peter Lee. “The TCL PLEX is the first of a new range of devices we will be releasing from next year, including our 5G products and devices with foldable displays.”

The phone’s TCL NXTVISION technology intensifies colours, and the phone comes in different screen viewing modes for comfort, including reading and eye comfort modes.

The phone also has a triple-camera setup with a 48MP high-resolution Sony sensor and a ‘Super Night Mode’, as well as a 16MP 123-degree super wide-angle camera. It runs on Android 9.0 on a Qualcomm SDM675 Snapdragon, with 6GB RAM and 128GB of internal storage, with micro SD storage capable up to 256GB.

It will retail from Q4 this year in Obsidian Black and Opal White colours at €329.

TCL also announced the Alcatel 1V and the Alcatel 3X to target entry-level users and markets. The Alcatel 1V will retail at €79, and the 3X at €149.

In the non-smartphone space, TCL announced the Alcatel Smart Tab 7 tablet from €79, and an LTE home hub costing €129, as well as a 4G-enabled smartwatch aimed at older demographics through its incorporation of an SOS call feature and a geolocation tracker, to cost around €129.