TCL’s new matte OLED screen highlights the appeal of Apple’s foldable iPhone
TCL’s P80 Ultra introduces the first OLED panel with its Nxtpaper matte technology, offering superior contrast and an always-on display. This innovation has increased anticipation for the upcoming iPhone Duo, which is expected to feature a similar matte inner screen.
Key points
- The TCL P80 Ultra is the first device to combine OLED technology with TCL’s Nxtpaper matte display, resulting in deeper blacks and richer colors compared to previous models.
- The new screen finally supports an always-on display, a feature previously missing from TCL’s Nxtpaper phones and considered a major drawback by users.
- The P80 Ultra includes a dedicated Nxtpaper Key on the side to trigger e-reader-inspired monochrome modes, which can extend battery life significantly.
- The iPhone Duo, Apple’s foldable smartphone, is expected to feature a matte inner display, a design choice that has gained renewed interest following TCL’s successful implementation.
- The iPhone Duo is scheduled to launch on October 23, with pre-orders beginning on October 16, and is priced starting at $1,999.
Background
TCL first introduced matte displays on tablets in 2021 and brought the technology to phones with the Nxtpaper 40 in 2023. The P80 Ultra, launched in September 2026, features a 6.83-inch 1.5K OLED panel with 120Hz refresh and 3,200 nits brightness. Apple’s iPhone Duo, a foldable device, is set to release in October 2026 and is expected to include a matte inner display, a feature that has become a focal point for consumers seeking reduced glare and paperlike reading experiences.
Why it matters
The integration of matte technology with OLED panels addresses a long-standing trade-off between screen vibrancy and glare reduction. By successfully combining these features, TCL has set a new benchmark for display quality, influencing consumer expectations for upcoming devices like the iPhone Duo and potentially driving broader adoption of matte screens in the smartphone industry.
What to watch
The iPhone Duo is expected to launch on October 23, 2026, with pre-orders starting on October 16. Apple may introduce larger variants, such as the iPhone Duo Max, in the future. TCL’s P80 Ultra is currently available in Europe, with other regions to follow.
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