Since bringing home the Huawei Mate XT from MWC 2025, I’ve been on a fascinating adventure with this tri-fold device. This isn’t another ordinary smartphone—it’s a glimpse into what mobile technology becomes when designers think beyond conventional boundaries.

Designer: Huawei

The Physical Experience

The Mate XT draws the eye with its intricate design details when you pick it up. At 298 grams, it has a substantial presence in hand—a reminder that you’re holding something different. For context, that’s about 77% heavier than the iPhone 16 Pro (168g) and significantly weightier than the Google Pixel 9 Pro (187g). The folded thickness of 12.8mm also distinguishes it from the ultra-thin devices we’ve grown accustomed to, with most premium smartphones measuring between 7-9mm.

What’s impressive is how quickly this initial impression gives way to appreciation. The red vegan leather back provides an excellent grip that makes handling the device feel secure despite its weight. The textured surface creates just the right amount of friction against my palm, preventing any sense of precariousness during use.

The hinges deserve special mention. They move with a deliberate, smooth resistance that inspires confidence. Each transformation between configurations feels engineered rather than merely assembled. The hinges hold their position at any angle, allowing for customized viewing positions that adapt to different situations and environments.

Within days, what initially registered as “heavy” has transformed into what I now perceive as “substantial”—a subtle but important shift in perspective that reflects how quickly we adapt to new physical experiences.

Three Screens, Three Possibilities

The magic of the Mate XT lies in how it transforms between three distinct experiences.

In its folded state, the phone has a tall, narrow 6.4-inch screen that works wonderfully for quick interactions. This display size matches many popular smartphones, like the Samsung Galaxy S23, creating a familiar experience for texting, calling, and checking notifications. This configuration remains perfect for on-the-go use when walking or standing.

The middle configuration—partially unfolded to 7.9 inches—has become my go-to for many daily activities. This size sits between standard smartphones and small tablets like the iPad Mini (8.3 inches), striking a perfect balance for reading articles, browsing social media, and responding to emails. The text becomes more comfortable to read without the device becoming unwieldy. This “book mode” feels natural when relaxing on the couch or during my commute.

Fully unfolded to 10.2 inches, the Mate XT transforms into something magical. This size rivals the standard iPad (10.9 inches) and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (11 inches), but with a key difference—the 16:9 aspect ratio creates a genuinely immersive tablet experience. Unlike the more square-ish aspect ratios of most tablets, this configuration is perfectly suited for media consumption. Netflix shows fill the screen beautifully without the letterboxing common on iPads. Web pages display their desktop layouts rather than their cramped mobile versions. Spreadsheets become actually usable rather than exercises in patience.

Yes, there are creases where the screen folds—visible particularly under direct light. But their visual presence fades remarkably quickly from conscious awareness. My focus naturally shifts to the content rather than the medium, with the creases becoming just another characteristic of the display rather than a distraction.

The Best Device Is the One You Have With You

There’s a well-worn adage in photography: “The best camera is the one you have with you.” This simple truth acknowledges that technical superiority means nothing if a device is left at home when an opportunity arises. I’ve come to believe this principle extends perfectly to computing devices—the best tablet is the one you actually have when you need it.

During a recent trip back from Barcelona, I noticed a passenger across from me struggling to watch a movie on his phone. As we talked, he shared his amazement at the Mate XT’s transformative nature. He explained that he had left his tablet at home, realizing he didn’t need to carry it for a long-haul trip. Meanwhile, I unfolded my Mate XT to its full 10.2-inch glory and enjoyed an immersive viewing experience on a device that had been in my pocket moments before.

The value of the Mate XT isn’t that it’s the best smartphone or tablet in isolation—dedicated devices still hold advantages in their specialized categories. Its true value lies in being good enough at both roles while always being available. The tablet you left at home because it was too cumbersome to carry offers zero utility, while the folding device in your pocket transforms to meet the need at hand.

This “always available” factor changes how I approach productivity and entertainment. I no longer plan device usage around anticipated needs (“Should I bring my tablet today?”) but instead respond to opportunities as they arise. A surprise 30-minute wait becomes a chance to review a document comfortably. A delayed flight becomes an opportunity to watch an episode of a show with proper screen real estate. This is 100% clear to me, especially when spending the day with my daughter at her tennis match, where having a flexible device makes all the difference.

The Mate XT eliminates the opportunity cost of choosing which devices to carry. It’s one of the best everyday carry devices, extending beyond the physical universe by adapting seamlessly to different needs. Like a multi-tool, it may not be as specialized as individual implements, but its remarkable versatility ensures it’s always present when needed.

The Beginning of an Ongoing Experience

Using the Huawei Mate XT has changed how I think about mobile devices. Instead of switching between a phone and a tablet, I’ve found myself relying on one device that adapts to whatever I need in the moment. The tri-fold design makes everything seamless, whether I’m responding to messages, getting work done, or unwinding with a show.

Once noticeable, its weight becomes part of the experience, reinforcing the sense that this is something different—something substantial. The creases fade into the background as the content takes center stage. The true value isn’t found in any one configuration but in the seamless transition between them. It’s about having the right tool in your pocket without compromise.

The Mate XT doesn’t demand that you choose between a phone and a tablet—it simply adapts, ready for whatever the day brings.

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Dashboard cameras, more popularly known by the name “dashcams,” have pretty much become a staple of modern vehicles. Although they don’t exactly prevent accidents from occurring, they can offer peace of mind knowing that you will have the recording you need for resolving matters after the fact. Humans don’t have dashboards, of course, but the equivalent body cameras or body cams are utilized by law enforcers for almost the same purpose, serving as a deterrent to both crime and abuse.

Cars and police aren’t the only ones who need such protection and promises of safety, though. For the longest time, ordinary folk are left to fend for themselves or resort to action cameras to get similar footage. SLIMDESIGN is trying to challenge that status quo with a body cam that is small enough to easily pin on your clothes yet also capable enough to offer some sense of security, especially in case of an emergency.

Designer: SLIMDESIGN

We’ve had our fill of AI pins that turn out to be vaporware, but thankfully this isn’t the case here even though the design almost looks like one. PhoneCam is meant more for safety and security, with AI as just the icing on top. Unless, of course, you are completely dependent on that AI companion, which actually demonstrates one of the key strengths of this wearable AI device.

At its heart, though, PhoneCam is a small bodycam made especially for your average consumer, recording footage during emergencies, sending distress signals, and even providing real-time video to emergency contacts. The reason why it’s so small is that it doesn’t contain much hardware, leveraging your smartphone’s capabilities instead. That includes CPU for AI applications, GPS for location, and cellular or Wi-Fi networks for connectivity. Because of that, PhoneCam also promises to be more affordable, making it accessible to people outside of law enforcement, military, and the like.

And yes, it does have some AI functionality, though it’s being advertised as a way to help people navigate the world around them. This is especially useful for persons with vision impairments, turning PhoneCam into something like a bionic eye. Given that the AI is really running on your phone, there is also plenty of room for additional functionality, giving it the potential to be a true AI assistant.

PhoneCam’s petite pill-shaped design is both a strength and a potential privacy problem. While it does make it easy to place the camera anywhere on your person without getting in your way or looking too obnoxious, it also prevents other people from immediately recognizing a recording device. Yes, it has a strong light that indicates when it’s currently active, but not everyone might be able to quickly clue in on that fact before their face gets potentially recorded as they pass by. Still, it’s an interesting design with lots of potential, and hopefully, it won’t go the way of certain AI-focused wearable cameras.

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If you need further proof of how 3D printing is revolutionizing the design and manufacturing industries, you only need to look at what comes out of the hotend nozzle. Yes, we are seeing the use of more sustainable and biodegradable filaments like recycled plastics and wood, but the innovation goes beyond your typical building materials. 3D printing is spreading its advantages to other industries, and that includes the culinary world.

3D printed food might still sound far-fetched, but there are already quite a few pioneers blazing a path for the future. We’re not just talking about chocolates and confectionery, which seem to be the default presumption. At MWC 2025, we got to feast our eyes on some rather mouth-watering meaty dishes that you would have never thought were actually made from plant-based material that was 3D printed right on the spot.

Designer: Novameat

Given processes and pipelines that have been refined for decades, you’d definitely think that 3D printed meat is an exercise in inefficiency. However, mass-produced food, even the plant-based kind, still have a lot of flaws that couldn’t be easily resolved by those very same mechanisms. For one, there’s bound to be a lot of waste along the way, especially if production and supply surpass demand. For another, texture has been a perennial problem, one that Novameat’s technology has seemingly solved at long last.

With its proprietary MicroForce technology, Novameat is able to produce shapes fibers that replicate the strands that give meat its unique texture. This is made possible using 3D printing, but not the 3D printing that you’d see in hobbyist workshops or even professional studios. This is a large-scale process that leverages standard industry equipment, providing the efficiency that’s needed to quickly supply this special meat in large quantities as needed.

The result is meat that is good for humans and the planet as well. The plant-based materials can help save more animals, while the efficient 3D printing process helps lower energy requirements and reduce water waste. The meats also don’t rely on complex ingredients to give it texture and can also preserve the nutritional value of the product better, creating a meat treat that doesn’t just taste like the real deal but also feels that way for our tongues.

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A few years ago, scientists taught a bunch of neurons in a petri dish to play Pong. That was weird enough. But now, those neurons have leveled up. They’re not just playing games—they’re forming the foundation of the world’s first biological computer. Meet the CL1, a machine powered by living human brain cells, designed by Australian company Cortical Labs. Spotted at MWC 2025, the CL1 isn’t some futuristic thought experiment; it’s real, it’s commercialized, and it’s challenging everything we thought we knew about AI.

You’d expect something this advanced to be a towering, sci-fi supercomputer. It’s not. The CL1 is a sleek, self-contained unit that fuses human neurons with silicon hardware. Those neurons don’t just store data—they actively form connections, rewire themselves, and learn dynamically, just like the networks inside your brain. Traditional AI models, no matter how complex, rely on brute-force computation and massive datasets. The CL1 does something fundamentally different: it processes information biologically, adjusting in real time without needing thousands of GPUs churning through petabytes of data.

Designer: Cortical Labs

The secret lies in a technology called Synthetic Biological Intelligence (SBI). Think of it as a hybrid between human cognition and machine efficiency. Lab-grown neurons sit on an electrode array, where they’re fed electrical signals and respond by strengthening or weakening connections, much like how learning happens in a human brain. Unlike rigid AI models that require pre-programmed rules, the CL1’s neurons adapt organically. It’s like training a dog versus coding a robot—you don’t have to tell the neurons what to do explicitly. They figure it out.

This adaptability could have profound implications. In drug discovery, for example, researchers could test how neurons react to different compounds in real time, potentially speeding up treatments for diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Unlike traditional cell cultures, which exist in static environments, these neural networks behave like actual brain tissue. Scientists wouldn’t just be observing chemical reactions; they’d be studying cognition in action. That level of biological realism could make clinical trials faster, cheaper, and more effective.

A close-up of the chip, which has actual human brain cells integrated into the silicon

This bio/tech hybrid forms an entirely new kind of artificial intelligence

There’s also a practical advantage: energy efficiency. AI as we know it is a power-hungry beast, with models like GPT-4 requiring warehouses of GPUs burning through electricity at an alarming rate. The CL1, by contrast, is a biological marvel. A full server rack of these units uses about the same energy as a high-end gaming PC. Human neurons are naturally optimized for low-power, high-efficiency processing—something silicon has never quite been able to replicate. This shift from artificial neural networks to actual biological ones could make AI development dramatically more sustainable.

But let’s be real—melding living brain cells with hardware raises all kinds of ethical and philosophical questions. Are these neurons “thinking”? Could they develop some form of awareness? So far, the answer is no. The networks inside the CL1 are highly specialized, built for processing information rather than conscious thought. But as the technology advances, those questions will only get louder. Cortical Labs has put ethical safeguards in place, ensuring that SBI development remains within controlled parameters. Still, the idea of neurons firing away inside a machine is enough to unsettle even the most enthusiastic tech optimists.

Beyond neuroscience and medicine, the CL1 could reshape robotics and autonomous systems. Traditional AI struggles with unpredictable environments because it lacks true adaptability. A biological AI system, on the other hand, could respond to its surroundings more fluidly, learning from direct interaction rather than static training data. Imagine a self-driving car that doesn’t just follow programmed rules but intuitively learns how to navigate new situations on the fly. That’s the kind of intelligence SBI could make possible.

For now, Cortical Labs is making the CL1 available through a cloud-based platform, allowing researchers to access SBI technology remotely. The hardware itself isn’t cheap—each unit costs around $35,000—but it’s already far more affordable than similar biotech research tools, some of which exceed $80,000. The long-term goal? Making SBI a mainstream technology, one that scientists, engineers, and innovators can build on just as easily as they do with traditional AI today.

This is the moment where AI stops being purely artificial. When neurons and circuits start working together, intelligence itself takes on a new form—one that’s more fluid, more adaptable, and perhaps even closer to what we call “thinking.” Where this leads, no one knows yet. But one thing is certain: the future of AI just got a lot more organic.

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Every year, I look forward to tech expos like MWC because it’s the one place where I’ll get to peek under the hood of my favorite companies to see what they’ve been cooking in their R&D departments. You know that every year, you’ll see some crazy stuff from Lenovo, Motorola, TCL, Tecno, LG, and even Samsung. I’ll be honest, Samsung’s a market leader in quite a few departments – it has a solid footing in mobiles, smartwatches, tablets, TVs, and appliances… and I expected them to embrace weirdness and creativity within those niches, but it looks like Samsung’s gunning for the gaming industry too. Meet the Flex Gaming Console, a wild concept that brings foldable tech to handheld consoles.

Tucked away at the Samsung Display booth (the Display-based R&D division of Samsung), the Flex Gaming Console is a pretty wacky-looking handheld. It sports a Nintendo Switch-style design with a central screen and multi-colored control areas on the left and right – but unlike the Switch, the thing folds in half like a book. Why? Portability seems to be the first thing that comes to mind. The second most obvious answer is because it’s cool as heck!

Designer: Samsung Display

First off – no, this isn’t a future product. Samsung knows better than to enter the gaming space unprepared (just look at how quickly Google Stadia collapsed). The Flex Gaming console is a proof-of-concept to highlight the capabilities of Samsung’s flexible display technology. In short, it’s Samsung’s way of giving OEMs ideas for foldable gaming devices. If Nintendo or Valve bites the bait, great! Otherwise, this is Samsung telling other players like ASUS ROG, Lenovo Legion, and Razer to disrupt the space.

Kept away from attendees behind a ‘Do Not Touch’ sign, we still managed to get a close look at the Flex Gaming console thanks to a helpful Samsung employee. The device is surprisingly compact, measuring thinner than any flagship handheld console when opened. Even when folded shut, it’s a little under an inch thick. Open it, and you’re greeted with a 7.2″ screen that folds along the middle. There’s obviously a crease, but it’s distributed thanks to a wide double hinge. The most impressive bit, however, is the design of the controls on either side of the screen. With an almost yin-yang-like design, the controls are designed to fit into each other when shut. The protruding joystick’s thumb disc fits perfectly into the hollow space left behind by the torus-shaped action buttons.

You’ve got a bunch of other controls like dual trigger buttons on the top left and right. An obvious Home and Play/Pause button on the front, volume controls on the top, an aux input, and even an SD card slot. It’s surprising how detailed the console is, even though Samsung shows no plans of marketing or launching such a device. If anything, they’re teasing Nintendo, which announced the Switch 2 in January, boasting just mild iterative upgrades to its design. If someone were to launch a foldable controller running SteamOS or even Xbox Game Pass, I think it would absolutely take the gaming world by storm.

Is a folding game console practical? Well, I’d tend to agree, given that compact tech is always perceived as better than bulky tech. The Flex Gaming console borrows from Samsung’s work in its foldable phone department, cleverly distributing batteries and PCBs in ways that allow folding without compromise in performance. The console is sublimely thin, which means sure, it’s not as powerful as a Steam Deck, but current Steam Decks can’t fit into your pocket. This one can.

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Samsung, LG, and many other consumer electronics giants have invested a lot in their flexible displays since the potential applications are limitless. Right from the folding and rollable TV displays to trifold smartphones that look like the next evolutionary step. Just like the LG StandbyME Go smart display made all the news last year, the Samsung Briefcase foldable display is poised to do the same.

This unconventional prototype dubbed Flexible Briefcase was revealed at Mobile World Congress 2025 alongside other concept reveals from the South Korean consumer electronics giant’s display division. The USP of this future-forward design fit for a Bond movie is its bendable screen iteration that allows for a laptop-like configuration, both at the front and bottom of the inside of the briefcase. Call it a portable monitor or a foldable display, the choice is yours since Samsung didn’t allow anyone to even lay a finger on this cool gadget.

Designer: Samsung Display

The odd hand carry has an 18.1-inch foldable display with QHD+ (2,000×2,644 resolution) and 184 PPI pixel density on each side. Flexible Briefcase comes with the On-Cell Film (OCF) technology for improved brightness while lowering power consumption for longer battery life. The metallic briefcase-like housing has two handles that integrate when the thing is closed. It has charging ports, power and volume buttons, and is placed strategically in the housing for smooth operation. In a way, it looks ready for the consumer market but don’t jump the gun yet, as a handful of potent concepts make it past the prototype stage. Samsung not allowing anyone to touch the unique gadget at the show lets us make our conclusions.

With that screen real estate staked in a portrait configuration, it’ll be great for professionals who want to crack a business deal with this impressive piece of technology by their side. Programmers and coders will find this screen configuration ideal for working on projects while on the go. Flexible Briefcase is the perfect computing machine if you don’t want to bring along a backpack or look ordinary walking on the streets.

At the MWC 2025 booth, the thin briefcase was shown off in both open and closed configurations. Interestingly, a big screen gadget adjacent to the briefcase indicates that the display can be taken out if you want to use it in a tablet format. If that’s the case it’ll be very interesting for various use-case scenarios; be it at home, in the office, or out in public. For now, Samsung has not leaked anything on the plans for this gadget, nor has any upcoming timeline been released.

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The tech world in the past months have all been abuzz about AI, both the good and the bad. Although the technology does have a lot of potential to improve our lives, we may have become too obsessed with it to realize that there are more opportunities for growth, especially when it comes to product design in tech. We have barely touched the tip of the iceberg of foldables, and there is still plenty of room for improvement when it comes to mobile photography.

At this year’s Mobile World Congress, we definitely saw a lot of designs and experiences enhanced by AI, but there was thankfully a lot more than that. We witnessed a blossoming of concepts and prototypes that challenged stereotypes and broke free of conventions. Whether they’re foldable phones, solar-powered laptops, or even augmented contact lenses, the floor was full of ideas that demonstrated not only the convergence of mobile technologies but also the power of innovation. Without further ado, here are our top picks for MWC 2025 that highlight the best not just in the mobile tech industry but also in product design.

Huawei Mate 70 Pro: The Ultimate Flagship Experience

The Huawei Mate 70 Pro, unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2025, pushes flagship smartphone innovation with its cutting-edge camera system, AI-enhanced performance, and rugged yet elegant design. As a premium device, it combines high-end materials with powerful hardware, making it a compelling choice for professionals and tech enthusiasts alike. Huawei’s latest advancements in display technology, computational photography, and battery efficiency ensure that the Mate 70 Pro remains a leader in the competitive smartphone market.

Featuring a 6.9-inch LTPO OLED display with 1316 x 2832 resolution, the Mate 70 Pro delivers a stunning visual experience with a 1–120Hz adaptive refresh rate and peak brightness of 2,500 nits. Huawei’s Kunlun Glass 2, reinforced with basalt fiber, provides five times the drop resistance of conventional glass, while IP68/IP69 certification ensures protection against high-pressure water jets and submersion. The device’s sleek aluminum alloy frame, available in Black, Purple, White, and Green, balances durability with an ergonomic feel.

The Ultra Chroma Camera system redefines mobile photography, headlined by a 50MP main sensor with an adjustable f/1.4–f/4.0 aperture for dynamic lighting control. A 48MP periscope telephoto lens supports 3.5x optical zoom with OIS, while a 40MP ultra-wide lens offers distortion-free landscapes. A 1.5MP multi-spectral sensor enhances color accuracy, refining details for lifelike image reproduction. AI-powered features, such as AI Movement Trajectory and AI Heroic Moment, introduce creative tools for capturing dynamic moments with precision.

Under the hood, the Kirin 9020 chipset powers the Mate 70 Pro, delivering a 40% performance boost over its predecessor. With 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, the device ensures seamless multitasking and fluid gaming performance. Connectivity is bolstered by Beidou satellite messaging, Wi-Fi 7, and NearLink technology, allowing users to stay connected in any scenario. The Premium Edition offers a slightly underclocked chipset at a lower price, catering to budget-conscious buyers in select regions.

The 5,500 mAh battery supports 100W wired charging, reaching 50% in just 18 minutes, 80W wireless charging, and 20W reverse wireless power sharing. HarmonyOS NEXT introduces new AI-driven features, such as real-time translation, gesture-based file sharing, and enhanced multi-device collaboration. With strong pre-order numbers and a competitive price point, the Mate 70 Pro stands as one of Huawei’s most ambitious flagships, combining top-tier performance with a refined user experience.

Lenovo ThinkBook Flip AI PC Concept: A Paradigm Shift in Mobile Computing

The Lenovo ThinkBook Flip AI PC Concept, unveiled at MWC 2025, reimagines the modern laptop with an 18.1-inch flexible OLED display that folds outward. This allows for seamless transitions between a compact 13-inch clamshell and an expansive vertical workspace. Built on the same advanced panel technology as Lenovo’s upcoming ThinkBook Gen 6, the Flip features a Z-shaped chassis that maximizes screen utility. Its 2000 x 2664 OLED display delivers vibrant colors and sharp details, enhancing both productivity and creative work. Unlike rollable designs that compromise screen space, the Flip bends behind itself, eliminating wasted surface area. This engineering approach enables new multitasking and collaboration possibilities without requiring external peripherals. By addressing the durability concerns that have historically plagued foldable devices, Lenovo positions the Flip as a serious contender in the future of mobile computing.

The ThinkBook Flip introduces five distinct operational modes, each optimized for professional and creative tasks. In its clamshell form, it functions as a traditional 13.1-inch laptop, while the vertical configuration unfolds to its full 18.1-inch display for document review, coding, or immersive research. A split-screen mode divides the display into 13.1-inch and 12.9-inch sections, making real-time collaboration seamless, ideal for client presentations or team brainstorming. For creative professionals, the device transforms into a 12.9-inch tablet, offering a responsive canvas for digital pen input, while a reading mode optimizes the display for extended research sessions. A dual-hinge system ensures screen integrity across thousands of folds, eliminating wear and tear issues that have hindered earlier foldable designs. By allowing users to share screen space without disrupting their workflow, the Flip presents a significant advantage in hybrid work environments where in-person collaboration remains essential.

Beyond its innovative display, the ThinkBook Flip integrates a Smart ForcePad, a three-layer touchpad that adapts dynamically to different tasks. This illuminated surface transitions between numeric keypads, media controls, and customizable shortcuts through pressure-sensitive layers. Engineers demonstrated its ability to switch from calculator functions to presentation tools with a single tap, reducing dependence on external peripherals. Under the hood, the Flip is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 32GB LPDDR5X RAM, and PCIe SSD storage, delivering smooth performance for AI-enhanced workflows. Connectivity is supported by Thunderbolt 4 ports, while a built-in fingerprint reader ensures security without compromising convenience. Early prototypes exhibited minor fragility, but later iterations unveiled in Barcelona showcased improved structural rigidity while maintaining a lightweight 1.22kg design.

Lenovo’s software advancements take the Flip beyond hardware innovation. The Workspace Split Screen feature uses machine learning to arrange applications intelligently across the expanded display, adjusting window sizes based on content type. AI-powered prompts during screen sharing help prevent accidental data exposure by keeping users aware of what’s displayed externally. A fold-aware interface introduces a swipeable control bar at the display’s midpoint, ensuring smooth transitions between modes while preserving active applications. These capabilities integrate with Lenovo’s broader AI ecosystem, including Smart Connect features that facilitate cross-device file management and voice-controlled workflows. When paired with optional Magic Bay accessories like secondary displays or AI companion modules, the Flip transforms into a hub for 3D modeling and real-time data visualization.

The ThinkBook Flip’s debut at MWC 2025 marks a pivotal moment in laptop design. It expands screen real estate without requiring bulky external monitors, incorporates AI-optimized tools that improve real-world productivity, and demonstrates that foldable laptops can achieve professional-grade durability. Lenovo’s engineers have addressed the fragility concerns of flexible OLED panels through advanced hinge design and protective material layering. Unlike conceptual devices that remain theoretical, the Flip’s multiple functional models suggest that commercialization is well within reach. For professionals seeking a future-ready device that enhances both portability and workspace efficiency, the ThinkBook Flip AI PC Concept represents a bold step toward the evolution of mobile computing.

Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 (2025): A Lightweight Tablet Built for Power and Productivity

The Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 (2025), introduced at MWC 2025, pushes the limits of tablet technology with a focus on professionals and creatives. With a 5.5mm ultra-thin profile and 580g weight, it remains one of the lightest large-screen tablets while offering IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance for durability. The 13.2-inch OLED display delivers a 2,880 x 1,920 resolution, 144Hz adaptive refresh rate, and HUAWEI PaperMatte technology, reducing glare and improving visibility. 1,000 nits peak brightness ensures clarity even in sunlight, while TÜV Rheinland-certified low blue light emission helps reduce eye strain.

Performance varies by region, with the Kirin 9000S in global models and the Kirin 9020 in China, delivering a 30% multi-threaded boost over the previous generation. Paired with 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB/1TB UFS 3.1 storage, the tablet handles demanding tasks like 4K video editing and 3D rendering with sustained performance. A 3D graphene cooling system keeps thermals in check, ensuring smooth operation under heavy workloads.

Unlike most tablets, the MatePad Pro 13.2 includes a 50MP main sensor (global) or a 13MP + 8MP ultra-wide setup (China), making it useful for scanning, document processing, and augmented reality applications. A 16MP front camera with ToF 3D sensing enhances security and facial recognition. The 10,100mAh silicon-carbon battery provides up to 18 hours of 4K playback, while 100W wired charging restores 60% in 30 minutes and 50W wireless charging supports seamless docking.

HarmonyOS 4.3 (global) and 5.0 (China) improve productivity, featuring PC-level WPS Office, Multi-Screen Collaboration 4.0, and GoPaint Pro with 120+ brush presets for designers. Some Android apps remain unoptimized for the 3:2 aspect ratio, but Huawei’s software ecosystem continues to mature. Accessories like the Smart Magnetic Keyboard and M-Pencil 3 enhance workflow, with 16K pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition for precise input.

Priced at €999 in Europe and CN¥6,199 in China, the MatePad Pro 13.2 positions itself as a laptop alternative with a 40% lower total cost of ownership than the Surface Pro 10 over three years. With 500,000 pre-orders in 72 hours, it’s clear demand remains strong despite U.S. trade restrictions. The combination of a glare-free display, professional-grade performance, and deep HarmonyOS integration makes this one of the most capable tablets available for those seeking a powerful, lightweight productivity tool.

Lenovo Yoga Solar PC Concept: Pioneering Sustainable Computing at MWC 2025

The Lenovo Yoga Solar PC Concept, unveiled at MWC 2025, redefines sustainable mobile computing by integrating photovoltaic technology directly into its chassis. This ultra-slim 14-inch laptop features an 84-cell Back Contact Cell (BCC) panel capable of converting 24% of captured light into usable energy. At just 1.22kg and 15mm thick, the device balances portability with an intelligent solar charging system that draws power from both direct sunlight and ambient indoor lighting. Lenovo’s Dynamic Solar Tracking system optimizes energy capture in real-time, with 20 minutes of sunlight generating an hour of video playback. Still in the prototype stage, the Yoga Solar PC Concept pushes renewable energy integration forward, offering a glimpse into a future where mobile computing requires minimal reliance on traditional power sources.

At the core of its design is the Back Contact Cell technology, which relocates mounting brackets and gridlines to the rear of the photovoltaic cells, increasing active light absorption by 15%. This allows Lenovo to integrate 84 solar cells into the laptop lid without compromising its sleek form. During MWC demonstrations, the panel remained functional under varying lighting conditions, from bright outdoor environments to dimly lit offices. The Solar-First Energy system prioritizes harvested power for immediate use while intelligently managing battery cycles, extending the overall lifespan of the device’s energy storage components.

Beyond hardware, Lenovo’s Dynamic Solar Tracking system refines energy efficiency through real-time photovoltaic output monitoring. By analyzing light intensity and angle, machine learning algorithms optimize power allocation, achieving 18% greater efficiency compared to static solar panels. A dedicated companion app visualizes energy intake and usage, helping users maximize solar exposure during work sessions. More importantly, the system ensures consistent performance even during sudden transitions between indoor and outdoor lighting—critical for professionals who require uninterrupted computing power throughout the day.

Despite its sustainability focus, the Yoga Solar PC Concept doesn’t compromise on performance. It runs on Intel’s Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200 platform, paired with 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and PCIe 5.0 SSD storage. The 14-inch 2.8K OLED display consumes 22% less power than previous Yoga models through adaptive refresh rate technology. Lenovo has also ensured full connectivity, including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and Wi-Fi 7 support. The 50.2Wh battery provides up to 8 hours of standalone use, which can be indefinitely extended under optimal solar conditions. Crucially, the solar integration does not add weight, debunking the assumption that renewable technology must come at the cost of mobility.

The Yoga Solar PC Concept introduces use cases that redefine mobile computing. For field researchers, its continuous solar charging enables week-long deployments without grid access, a breakthrough for ecological studies and disaster response teams. Urban professionals benefit from passive charging during commutes, with 15 minutes of balcony sunlight offsetting a coffee shop work session. In education, the built-in energy tracking app serves as a real-time sustainability learning tool. Lenovo also envisions corporate environments utilizing solar-charging workstations, potentially reducing energy consumption on a large scale. While commercialization remains a challenge due to high manufacturing costs, Lenovo anticipates price parity with conventional laptops by 2027, signaling a realistic pathway for solar-powered computing to transition from concept to consumer reality.

Huawei Watch GT5 Pro Ceramic Edition: A Study in Material Innovation and Timeless Design

Showcased at MWC 2025, the Huawei Watch GT5 Pro Ceramic Edition elevates smartwatch craftsmanship with its 42mm nanocrystalline ceramic body, combining resilience with an unmistakably refined aesthetic. Designed for those who value both precision engineering and longevity, it resists scratches, oxidation, and UV discoloration while maintaining a polished finish. The sapphire crystal AMOLED display, reaching 1,200 nits brightness, ensures durability and clarity in any setting. At 9.6mm thick and weighing 44g, it offers a more streamlined profile than the titanium variant, making it a wearable that merges elegance with all-day comfort.

Huawei’s expertise in materials extends to durability, with IP69K/IP68 + 5ATM certification, making the watch resistant to 40-meter free diving and high-pressure water jets. The EasyFit 3.0 quick-release mechanism allows for seamless strap swaps, including a ceramic link bracelet engineered to prevent loosening over time. The octagonal bezel, framed in polished ceramic, reinforces the watch’s minimalist design while protecting the sapphire crystal display, which retains sharp visibility under direct sunlight.

More than a statement in design, the GT5 Pro delivers advanced health tracking through TruSense 5.0, offering 12-channel SpO2 monitoring, ECG arrhythmia detection, and arterial stiffness analysis. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) sensors introduce a rare capability in consumer wearables, providing real-time cardiovascular assessments. The ceramic backplate incorporates glass-darkening technology, improving sensor accuracy by 18% compared to the titanium model, enhancing the watch’s ability to function as a precise health companion.

Powered by HarmonyOS 5.0, the watch functions independently with eSIM support for calls and messaging, while AI-driven workout coaching adapts to the user’s heart rate variability. Specialized features, including Golf Mode with 40,000+ mapped courses and WPS Office Lite for document previews, further integrate the watch into Huawei’s growing ecosystem. A 440mAh battery provides up to 14 days of use, with wireless charging completing a full cycle in 90 minutes, ensuring longevity without performance trade-offs.

Priced at €449 with a ceramic strap and €379 with a fluoroelastomer band, the GT5 Pro Ceramic Edition challenges the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Classic, offering premium materials and extended battery life at a more accessible price. Pre-orders surpassed 50,000 units in 72 hours, with strong interest from female professionals. Huawei’s partnership with Tag Heuer for co-branded ceramic straps hints at ambitions beyond the smartwatch market, reinforcing the idea that fine craftsmanship and intelligent engineering belong in the same conversation.

Lenovo Magic Bay Display System: Redefining Mobile Workspace Expansion at MWC 2025

The Lenovo Magic Bay Display System, unveiled at MWC 2025, redefines laptop extensibility with its magnetic modular display concepts. At its core are two innovations: the Magic Bay Dual Display Concept, featuring dual 13.3-inch screens, and the Magic Bay 2nd Display Concept, an 8-inch vertical panel. These displays attach seamlessly to compatible ThinkBook laptops via Lenovo’s proprietary magnetic pogo-pin connector, eliminating the need for cables or external power. Unlike traditional portable monitors, they sync automatically with Windows’ multi-display support, offering near-zero latency cursor transitions and adaptive resolution scaling up to 2880×1920 at 120Hz. Lenovo’s approach streamlines multi-screen workflows, making mobile workstations more efficient and compact.

The engineering behind the Magic Bay system centers on its Zero-Compromise Attachment Mechanism. Using neodymium magnets and a 48-pin connector, displays instantly integrate with ThinkBook 16P Gen 6 laptops, drawing power and data without USB-C or HDMI cables. The Dual Display’s folding hinge design collapses into a 1.2kg bundle thinner than a standard notebook, while the 2nd Display weighs just 300g. Rigorous stress tests confirm that the magnetic attachment withstands 5kg of lateral force, ensuring stability during transport. These refinements eliminate the bulk and setup complexity typically associated with portable monitors.

Both displays push visual performance forward. The Dual Display’s twin 13.3-inch IPS panels achieve a 2880×1920 resolution with a 1500:1 contrast ratio and 120Hz refresh rate, delivering professional-grade accuracy for video editing and 3D modeling. The 2nd Display’s 9:16 aspect ratio optimizes your workspace for messaging apps, coding, and social feeds, replacing the need for portrait-oriented external monitors. Integrated ambient light sensors adjust brightness automatically across all screens, ensuring visual consistency in changing environments. These features elevate productivity without adding unnecessary complexity to the user experience.

Lenovo enhances the system further with AI-powered workflow optimizations. The 2nd Display’s Smart Taskbar anticipates frequently used applications based on time-of-day patterns, offering instant access to essential tools. The Dual Display benefits from an Eye Tracking Mode that dims unused panels, reducing power consumption by up to 37% over extended sessions. Automated window management improves efficiency, allowing users to drag files to specific screens and trigger preloaded software configurations. These AI-driven enhancements move beyond conventional multi-display setups by actively adapting to user habits.

The Magic Bay system solves key industry pain points—setup complexity, power management, and ergonomic limitations—while offering a forward-thinking approach to modular computing. Early prototypes faced battery life challenges, with both Dual Display panels running at 120Hz halving the ThinkBook’s runtime to 4.2 hours, but future PCIe 5.0 integration is expected to reduce power draw by 18%. Lenovo’s roadmap suggests a commercial release in Q4 2026, with a developer SDK launching in late 2025 to support third-party software optimization. By making multi-screen expansion a native laptop function rather than an add-on, the Magic Bay Display System represents a fundamental shift in mobile workstation design.

Xiaomi Modular Optical System Concept

Smartphone cameras may have gotten really powerful these days, but limitations of size mean that they still fall short of challenging actual cameras. This is especially true when optics or lenses are concerned, as there isn’t enough room for better but bulkier components. Lens attachments like those from Moment solve only one part of the problem, but Xiaomi’s concept is selling a whole package that is as easy as sticking a magnetic accessory to the back of the phone.

The Xiaomi Modular Optic System or MOS Concept is basically a camera lens with a built-in imaging sensor. It boasts a precision-engineered 35mm f/1.4 lens paired with a powerful 100MP Light Fusion X Type 4/3 sensor that’s almost twice the size of the largest smartphone sensor in the market today. That means better image quality overall, but the real clincher is how it magnetically attaches to the back of the phone and works in the same way as the phone’s built-in cameras. You can even use the native camera app!

This seemingly magical feat is made possible by a new Xiaomi LaserLink technology that allows ultra-fast 10Gbps wireless data transfer between the MOS and a Xiaomi phone. The module also gets its power from the phone wirelessly, making the experience effortless. Simply snap the MOS on the phone’s back and start shooting. As a bonus, it attaches to the middle of the phone’s back, making you look and feel like you’re actually using a professional digital camera, complete with a cylindrical lens.

Tecno Spark Slim Concept: Ultra-Thin Design Meets Premium

DurabilityThe Tecno Spark Slim concept takes smartphone design in a bold direction, embracing a ceramic and stainless steel unibody construction that delivers a premium feel while maintaining an ultra-thin profile. At just 5.75mm thick, it stands among the slimmest smartphone concepts, yet it houses a 5200mAh battery—an impressive feat of engineering that prioritizes both aesthetics and practicality. The use of ceramic provides a smooth, polished surface that resists scratches and fingerprints, while stainless steel reinforces the frame, ensuring durability without adding unnecessary weight. This combination strikes a balance between refinement and structural integrity, making the device feel robust despite its minimal thickness.

The design language follows a minimalist approach, with a pill-shaped horizontal camera module that deviates from most smartphones’ standard vertical or square layouts. The glossy back panel enhances its refined look, while subtle curves along the edges improve grip and comfort. This attention to symmetry and balance results in a clean, modern aesthetic that aligns with contemporary premium smartphone trends. The seamless integration of materials and the precise craftsmanship create a device that looks as sophisticated as it feels in hand.

Despite ultra-thin smartphones’ challenges in heat dissipation and battery capacity, Tecno has implemented a design that optimizes both. The ceramic back aids in thermal management, preventing excessive heat buildup during extended use, while the stainless steel frame enhances rigidity, ensuring the device does not feel fragile. The internal structure accommodates a large-capacity battery without compromising overall durability, showcasing smart engineering choices that make the Spark Slim concept practical for everyday use.

Tecno has created a concept device that redefines expectations for budget-friendly smartphones by focusing on both practicality and aesthetics. The Spark Slim’s materials and construction elevate it beyond conventional thin smartphones, offering a combination of durability, comfort, and sleek design. Unlike many devices that rely on flashy design elements to stand out, this model achieves distinction through its refined material choices and careful attention to detail.

Tecno’s approach with the Spark Slim concept demonstrates that ultra-thin smartphones don’t have to sacrifice functionality for design. By integrating premium materials with an impressively slim form factor, the brand has introduced a concept that is as stylish as it is durable. With a large battery, a thoughtfully designed frame, and a focus on ergonomics, the Spark Slim sets a new benchmark for sleek yet practical smartphone concepts in its category.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra

Smartphones these days have always made the camera a focal point, pun totally intended, but Xiaomi really took that to the next level in its most powerful flagship yet. It completely embraced the image of a smartphone camera by making the smartphone look like a camera. This can be clearly seen in the special Silver Chrome edition that mimics the appearance of a classic camera, faux leather and all.

This isn’t the first time this design has been tried (anyone remember the Samsung Galaxy Zoom?), but we’re finally at a point where you don’t need an obnoxious camera lens to get the same quality. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s design still works even with the other two colorways, but you might want to slap on the Photography Kit to really get that camera feel, including an ergonomic grip, a dedicated shutter button, and a battery pack that will keep you clicking and clicking.

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra isn’t just about look, though. We found it to be quite the impressive smartphone for tasks that go beyond photography. Those looking for a premium smartphone with all the bells and whistles, this should definitely be among your options. And if you do decide on it, try grabbing that Silver Chrome version to really give you that pro photographer feeling.

TECNO AI Glasses Pro: Lightweight AR Innovation with Hybrid AI and High-Resolution Optics

The TECNO AI Glasses Pro, unveiled at MWC 2025, pushes the boundaries of consumer-grade augmented reality. Weighing just 48g, these wearables integrate a 50MP imaging system with WaveGuide-enhanced MicroLED optics, delivering enterprise-grade AR functionality in a lightweight form. The device offers a 30-degree field of view and 1,500-nit brightness for seamless indoor and outdoor use, featuring real-time translation, object recognition, and AI-driven navigation through TECNO’s Ella AI assistant. The translation system operates on a hybrid AI architecture, leveraging on-device large language models (LLMs) for immediate tasks while utilizing cloud-based machine learning for complex queries, ensuring efficient and responsive performance.

The optical system is built around a 7th-generation resin WaveGuide display, co-developed with Meta-Bounds, ensuring crisp 720p visuals without obstructing environmental awareness. Unlike earlier AR wearables with floating screen effects, TECNO employs dichroic mirrors and multi-layer coatings to enhance light transmission efficiency. The result is a thinner WaveGuide stack that maintains durability using aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and graphene composites, reducing temple width to just 6.8mm. The Snapdragon AR1 Gen 2 chipset powers the device’s SLAM tracking at 60fps, delivering real-time navigation overlays with sub-2ms latency, providing an intuitive AR experience for contextual guidance.

A 50MP main camera with a custom 6P lens and OV50D sensor matches the imaging capabilities of TECNO’s CAMON 40 Premier smartphone. The SmartSnap feature automatically adjusts settings for social media-ready shots, while AI HDR dynamically optimizes video contrast. With a 12MP depth sensor, the device delivers millimeter-precise object recognition, enhancing AR overlays for industries like logistics and healthcare. These imaging advancements allow users to capture high-quality content while interacting with their surroundings in real time.

TECNO’s Ella AI assistant transforms the Glasses Pro into a proactive productivity tool. Real-time translation covers over 100 languages, while contextual navigation projects directional overlays via Snapdragon’s AR1 Gen 2 chipset. The AI Info feature streamlines notifications, condensing messages, calendar alerts, and updates into brief summaries. Combined with seamless device syncing across TECNO’s AI ecosystem, the Glasses Pro enhances collaboration and efficiency.

Designed for all-day wear, the Glasses Pro features a magnesium alloy frame and graphene-reinforced hinges, ensuring comfort and durability. A 250mAh graphene battery powers up to eight hours of AR use, with a 30-minute quick charge restoring 50% capacity. TECNO emphasizes sustainability through mercury-free displays and the use of recycled materials, though no official solar-powered accessories have been confirmed. While pricing details remain undisclosed, the AI Glasses Pro represents TECNO’s push to democratize AR by making advanced features more accessible to a wider audience.

Realme Interchangeable-Lens Concept

One of the biggest problems with smartphone photography is the fixed lens design: you can only use the kind of lens that comes with the sensor inside the phone. Accessories like Moment Lenses try to overcome that limitation but stops short of delivering the flexibility and quality that pro photographers really need. For that, you’ll need the same kind of lenses that they use, and Realme is proposing exactly that.

The Interchangeable-Lens Concept is a device that practically lets you attach DSLR lenses directly to the phone. The phone has a large proprietary lens mount system around a 1-inch customized Sony sensor, a setup that will be familiar to many DSLR owners. With the included 73mm portrait and 234mm telephoto lenses, users will be able to pull off beautiful, creamy bokehs and actual lossless 10x zooms without breaking a sweat.

The concept phone is, of course, still just that, and the company will still have to iron out a few details, like how to makes sure that the sensor doesn’t get smudged without those DSLR lenses attached. Still, Realme definitely deserves credit for thinking outside the box to solve one of the biggest puzzles in smartphone camera design.

Samsung Moohan XR Headset

Apple definitely wowed the crowd with its Vision Pro demo, but the fact is that very few people will switch allegiances just for it. Especially if they can’t even afford to experience the beauty and power of spatial computing. Thankfully, it isn’t the only game in town, and we definitely can’t wait for Samsung’s Project Moohan XR headset to leave the woodwork and finally break the tie between Apple and Meta.

What we’re seeing here at MWC 2025 is definitely getting our hopes up, showing off a sleek design that, while still undeniably a headset, doesn’t scream the geek or gamer aesthetic of the Meta Quest. Although Samsung held off the MWC crowd at arm’s length, we can already make out a few key details, such as the four cameras in the corners of the front frame. Like the Vision Pro, the design wraps around the head, and both the light seal and the back cushion seem to be covered with fabric reminiscent of Google’s Home speakers.

The appeal of Project Moohan, however, goes beyond its stylish and lightweight design. Made in collaboration with both Qualcomm and Google, the device will most likely be the first to demonstrate the Android XR, a more open mixed reality platform that is the product of industry collaboration rather than a single company. It has the potential to open the floodgates of the XR market once again, and we can only cross our fingers at this design’s immediate release.

OPPO Find N5 Foldable

The idea of a foldable phone, one that can expand to double its size or fold in half, is easy enough to understand in principle. The implementation, however, is anything but. In addition to ensuring the durability of the flexible screen and the hinge, there is also one other factor that has to be considered. If the folded phone is literally the thickness of two phones stacked on top of each other, the appeal of putting such a device in your pocket instantly evaporates.

Thus there’s this obsession with bringing out the thinnest foldable smartphone in the market, mirroring a similar trend in regular smartphones a few years back. It’s bound to be a volatile segment, considering how we haven’t yet reached peak thinness, but the current crown belongs to the OPPO Find N5, at least among the book-style foldables. Only 8.93mm thin when folded, it’s not that much thicker than a normal non-foldable phone. It’s pretty light, too, at only 229g.

Best of all, it works as well as it looks, delivering topnotch performance in such a beautiful package. It truly demonstrates what this device segment is capable of, and the potential that can still be unlocked through smart design. If bulk and heft were the major reasons you held off from foldable phones, the OPPO Find N5 would make that hesitation vanish.

RedMagic 10 Pro Golden Saga

Although every high-end premium phone is technically capable of heavy mobile gaming, there is still a rather niche market that tries to really squeeze out every ounce of performance possible with over-the-top cooling, specialized performance modes, and invisible buttons. While these factors might sing to the hearts of hardcore gamers, some people shy away from these gaming smartphones for one rather simple reason: their aesthetics. Contrary to stereotypes, not all gamers subscribe to dark color schemes and neon RGB highlights that dominate the market.

The RedMagic 10 Pro Golden Saga Limited Edition tries to shatter that stereotype with a design that can be best described as posh and luxurious, words you’d definitely not associate with common gamer aesthetics. It still has a predominantly black hue but also makes generous use of silver and gold, both inside and outside. You might not believe the marketing and you might not see it for yourself, but simply knowing that there’s a gold vapor chamber inside rather than copper and that it uses a silver alloy air duct is probably enough to make you feel special.

Although only a limited few will actually enjoy that feeling, the RedMagic 10 Pro Golden Saga at least proves that gaming smartphones don’t have to look like cyberpunk props. Gamers, after all, are not a homogeneous group, and some will definitely dig the style of a phone that not only makes them stand out from their gaming peers but also allows them to blend with the high-profile crowds.

XPANCEO Smart Contact Lenses: The Future of AR and Health Tech in Your Eyes

XPANCEO’s smart contact lens prototypes, unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2025, bring the future of wearable technology closer to everyday life. These five experimental lenses go beyond vision correction, offering real-time health tracking, AR displays, and seamless digital interaction—all in a form as comfortable as regular contact lenses. From monitoring eye pressure for glaucoma detection to displaying augmented reality overlays without bulky headsets, XPANCEO is turning science fiction into reality, making smart lenses a potential game-changer for consumers.

One of the biggest innovations is the Smart Contact Lens with Wireless Powering Companion, which solves the issue of keeping electronics running in such a tiny form. Instead of using a battery, the lens wirelessly receives power from a small portable case, similar to an earbud charger. This breakthrough keeps the lens ultra-thin and breathable while providing hours of use for AR visuals or health monitoring features. It also ensures safe energy transfer, with radiation levels comparable to common wearable devices like wireless headphones.

XPANCEO’s Biosensing Smart Contact Lens acts like a personal health assistant, analyzing tear fluid to provide real-time insights into glucose levels, stress hormones, and vitamin deficiencies. This could be a game-changer for people with diabetes or those looking for a simple way to track their well-being. The Smart Contact Lens with IOP Sensor continuously measures eye pressure, helping detect early signs of glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness. The companion app even uses AI to predict risks and suggest lifestyle adjustments to improve eye health.

For those interested in AR without the bulk of glasses or headsets, the AR Vision Smart Contact Lens projects digital information directly onto the retina, creating a screen that only the wearer can see. It automatically adjusts brightness for outdoor and indoor settings and allows hands-free control through eye movements. The display delivers high-resolution visuals while drawing minimal power through wireless charging. The Smart Contact Lens for Data Reading adds connectivity features, syncing health data to cloud platforms and electronic health records for easier access and tracking.

XPANCEO’s prototypes are still in development, with medical versions expected to take longer due to regulatory approvals. Consumer AR models designed for entertainment, navigation, and fitness tracking may hit the market sooner. While challenges remain in bringing this technology to everyday users, XPANCEO’s vision is clear: smart contact lenses could soon replace screens and wearables, offering an effortless way to stay connected, healthy, and informed—all without anyone knowing you’re wearing the future.

The post Yanko Design Best of MWC 2025: Envisioning the Future of Communication and Creativity first appeared on Yanko Design.

The modern phone industry has been obsessed with sleekness, pushing for thinner, lighter, and more minimalist designs. But in doing so, accessibility often takes a backseat. Easco, Ireland’s first homegrown mobile phone company, is flipping that narrative with a device that prioritizes usability over aesthetics. Unveiled at MWC 2025, the Easco Phone is built for those who need a simple, customizable, and highly functional device. Whether for seniors, individuals with special needs, or even younger users getting their first phone, this thick, grippy handset is designed to make mobile technology truly accessible.

What sets the Easco Phone apart is its interchangeable keyboard system, allowing users to swap out keypads based on their needs. Traditional numpads can be replaced with dedicated emergency contact buttons, simplifying dialing for those who struggle with small keys or complex interfaces. Another variation transforms the keypad into assignable game action buttons, turning the phone into an unconventional but intuitive gaming device. This modular approach means the Easco Phone can adapt to different users, offering a level of personalization rarely seen in mainstream mobile phones.

Designer: Easco

The device comes in two formats: a classic bar-style phone and a nostalgic flip phone. Both feature large, tactile buttons that are easy to press, making them ideal for those with motor impairments or visual difficulties. The flip phone, in particular, evokes memories of an era when snapping a phone shut was the most satisfying way to end a call. Its clamshell design also protects the screen and makes it easier to grip, a welcome contrast to today’s slippery glass slabs.

Beyond its hardware innovations, the Easco Phone integrates seamlessly with modern tracking technology. Equipped with Apple’s Find My and Samsung’s SmartThings, it ensures users and their loved ones always have a way to locate the device. This is a game-changer for parents who want to keep track of their children’s whereabouts or caregivers who need to monitor seniors. Instead of relying on complex GPS apps, the Easco Phone taps into widely used tracking ecosystems, making it easy to locate with just a few taps on a paired smartphone.

Despite its focus on accessibility, the Easco Phone doesn’t compromise on connectivity. It supports UWB (Ultra-Wideband) Precise Positioning, allowing for more accurate tracking and seamless integration with smart home devices. This means users can unlock doors, locate misplaced items, or even interact with IoT gadgets in their home with minimal effort. For a phone designed with simplicity in mind, these features add a layer of security and convenience that modern users will appreciate.

Easco’s design philosophy is evident in the phone’s build quality. It’s thicker than most contemporary devices, but that extra bulk serves a purpose—it’s easier to hold, less prone to accidental drops, and can withstand daily wear and tear. The grippy texture ensures a firm hold, reducing the risk of slips that could be disastrous for users with limited dexterity. The company has leaned into a design language that prioritizes function over form, proving that accessibility-focused technology doesn’t have to feel outdated or uninspired.

The Easco Phone’s color options add another layer of personalization. The bar and flip phones come in soft pastel hues alongside classic black and white variants. These color choices make the device feel less clinical and more like a personal accessory, a small but meaningful touch for users who want a device that reflects their personality.

While major smartphone brands chase after foldable screens and AI-driven interfaces, Easco is focusing on something far more fundamental—making communication easier for those who need it most. The Easco Phone isn’t trying to compete with flagship smartphones; it exists in a category of its own, offering a refreshing alternative to those who find modern devices too complicated or impractical. By blending old-school practicality with modern tracking technology and modular adaptability, Easco has created a phone that feels genuinely necessary in today’s tech landscape.

The post We Tried the World’s First Phone With Swappable Keyboards For Accessibility—Hands-On at MWC 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

I’ll say it – the true winner at the Mobile World Congress this year isn’t a company, it’s a technology. Apple first introduced MagSafe for iPhones in 2020, but the technology has only recently shown some true promise. Qi2 finally brought the magnetic mounting technology to modern devices (although smartphone makers are yet to adopt it overwhelmingly), Apple’s iPhone 16E skipped MagSafe and got a lot of flak from consumers for ditching something so obviously convenient, and just day before yesterday, Xiaomi unveiled their Modular Optical System concept which used a similar magnetic ring on a smartphone to mount an external camera lens. MagSafe has shown some immense potential over the past few weeks, and now this wireless speaker at MWC further shows why magnetic accessories are so incredibly convenient.

Meet the Miatone MagBoom Mini, a magnetic speaker that snaps right to the back of your smartphone. Roughly the same shape (although slightly larger) than a coffee pod, it attaches to iPhones via MagSafe, giving you not just an external audio device, but also a prop-stand of sorts. The result? An audio dock that turns your iPhone into a makeshift entertainment center… with a high-resolution screen as well as clear, loud audio. Perfect for watching podcasts, methinks.

Designer: Miatone

Showcased at MWC 2025, the MagBoom Mini is a tiny, snap-on accessory that gives your phone its own woofer system. Smartphones are victims of their own slim designs, which means their audio units can’t be as powerful as larger, dedicated speakers. So the MagBoom Mini was created as an add-on solution, turning your phone into a powerful playback device for movies, videos, podcasts, music, etc. The MagBoom comes with an output of 3W, which doesn’t sound like much on paper, but it’s measurably more powerful than your phone’s native speaker.

Connect it via Bluetooth 5.4, and you have yourself a reliable audio device that can be used as an add-on accessory or even independently as a solitary speaker that isn’t connected to your phone. The MagSafe ring means it’s compatible with any MagSafe or Qi2 device, but more importantly, it’s still magnetic, which means you can stick the MagBoom Mini to your fridge, locker, even your car!

A USB-C port on the side means easy charging (you could use your iPhone 15 and above’s charger), while a 700mAh battery on the inside is small, but enough to get you through a few hours of playback. Minimum through a movie.

Now here’s where things get interesting. The MagBoom Mini is just the first step. As of now, the MagSafe feature is just for positional convenience – which means the speaker snaps onto the phone or any magnetic surface. However, if the tech were to get advanced enough, the speaker could also be a pass-through wireless charger for the phone, or even facilitate an NFC-based Bluetooth connection instead of you needing to manually connect the phone to the speaker. All this is speculation at this point, but it goes to illustrate my grander opinion – that MagSafe is a truly game-changing technology and the only thing holding it back is the lack of real creativity. We got snap-on camera lenses and Bluetooth speakers this year. I wonder what we’ll get next!

The post MagSafe Speaker Turns Your iPhone Into The Ultimate Portable Entertainment System: Hands-On At MWC 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Mobile devices like smartphones and tablets have become a critical part of our modern lives. Even though we know how harmful they can be to our bodies when used excessively, few of us can tear ourselves away from these screens, especially if our work and hobbies depend on them. The least we could do is to minimize the damage to our eyes, which is where alternative display technologies come in.

E Ink or E-Paper Displays (EPDs) are the darling of eye-friendly screens, often used in e-book readers and some monitors. But while these screens have started to adopt some color, they still pale in comparison to regular displays, figuratively and literally. TCL’s NXTPAPER technology is offering a middle ground, and it’s bringing the latest iteration of that “eye comfort” tech to its newest tablet that could become your favorite all-rounder entertainment and productivity device.

Designer: TCL

Technically speaking, TCL’s NXTPAPER is still based on the same LCD we know and love, except it adds a few extra goodies like nano-etch glass to recreate the look and feel of paper without going into E Ink territory. Along with other features that help reduce eye strain, NXTPAPER tries to offer the best of both worlds of eye-friendly EPD and colorful screens. The new NTXPAPER 4.0, in particular, steps up the game with “nano-matrix lithography” glass etching to improve display clarity and color accuracy, one of the biggest pain points of these types of displays.

Flicker-free DC Dimming

The first device to enjoy this new tech is the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus, the brand’s first 11-inch tablet that slots in between its 14-inch and 10-inch NXTPAPER slates. In terms of raw specs, it’s easily outclassed by the competition, running on a mid-range MediaTek Helio G100 processor with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and an 8000mAh battery that feels a bit too modest for a tablet of this size.

Of course, the real reason you’d even want to get your hands on this device would be its screen. The 11-inch 2200×1440 NXTPAPER screen promises multiple modes to fit your needs, from full to muted colors. Whether automatically set by AI or personally calibrated to your tastes, it offers no small amount of settings to tweak for a comfortable reading experience. And with the optional stylus, you can enjoy writing down your thoughts or sketching out ideas with some of the familiar scratchy texture of paper.

There are also some AI features pre-installed, unsurprisingly, though the ones TCL is advertising revolve mostly around translations, note summaries, and other activities related to reading or productivity. No launch date has been revealed yet, but the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus is expected to retail for €249 (around $260), which puts it squarely in the realm of affordable E Ink readers.

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