Happy Mobile Monday! Today, I am diving into the best phones of 2024, a year that has brought us remarkable innovations in smartphone technology. The TECNO Phantom Ultimate 2, a concept tri-fold, and Huawei’s Mate XT, a production-ready model, serve as unique entries in the foldable market, showcasing ambitious designs that push boundaries. Apple, Samsung, and Google continue to dominate as key players with their globally available devices—each setting a benchmark for quality and user experience. Meanwhile, other contenders like VIVO and TECNO have stepped up to challenge the norm, delivering impressive foldable options and innovative features. Whether it’s the revolutionary AI capabilities, cutting-edge cameras, or foldable technology that truly takes smartphones to the next level, this year’s selection reflects an exciting blend of creativity and technical achievement.

Huawei Mate XT

A true innovation in foldable technology, Huawei’s Tri Fold redefines what it means to multitask on the go.

The Huawei Mate XT introduces an impressive three-part foldable design, seamlessly transitioning between smartphone and tablet modes. It features a high-grade aluminum frame and glass back for a premium feel. When unfolded, its 10.5-inch OLED display is ideal for productivity and media. The hinge mechanism ensures a smooth and durable experience, further supported by Huawei’s engineering prowess. With the latest Kirin chipset, the Tri-Fold easily runs multiple apps, supported by 5G connectivity for lightning-fast internet speeds.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Huawei Mate XT stands out for its unique tri-folding screen, offering versatility that regular foldables can’t match. It’s designed for power users who need more screen real estate without sacrificing portability.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $2,499. It is available in China.

What We Love:

• Expansive 10.5-inch OLED display.
• Versatile tri-fold design perfect for productivity.
• XMAGE camera system for impressive photography.

Not So Great:

• Available only in China with a wait list spanning over 5 million units pre-ordered.
• It is heavier compared to standard foldables, making it less pocket-friendly.
• Steep price from $3,499 to over $5,000 from resellers.

iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max

Apple’s latest iteration brings groundbreaking camera, video, and audio capabilities, all powered by the new A18 Pro chip.

The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max elevate Apple’s design and user experience with 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch ProMotion OLED displays for fluid visuals. Powered by the A18 Pro chip, these phones excel in gaming, augmented reality, and multitasking. The Pro lineup includes a r 5x optical zoom, and both models feature larger sensors for improved low-light shots. Spatial Video recording allows for immersive content capture, further enhancing the media experience. The improved audio system and Apple’s new Adaptive EQ enhance the sound experience on calls or playing media.

Why is it noteworthy?

The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max embody Apple’s latest technological advancements, focusing on enriched user experiences in both photography and video. Integrating the A18 Pro chip improves performance and ensures seamless multitasking, efficient power use, and impressive AR applications. These phones are ideal for users who prioritize cutting-edge media capabilities and a premium build.

Price & Availability: Retail price starts at $1,199 for the Pro and $1,399 for the Pro Max. It is available globally through Apple stores and major carriers.

What We Love:

• A18 Pro chip provides top-tier performance.
• Periscope zoom lens for the Pro Max with 5x optical zoom.
• Spatial Video feature for immersive video capture.
• ProMotion display for smooth interaction.

Not So Great:

• Periscope zoom is limited to the Pro Max model.
• Slightly bulkier design compared to previous models.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

Samsung’s tried and tested foldable design returns with refined features for a seamless experience.

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 exudes a maturity that offers elegance, performance, and reliability, providing a seamless and refined experience. The 7.6-inch foldable AMOLED display delivers an expansive canvas, perfect for multitasking, while the 6.2-inch cover screen remains practical for quick tasks when folded. Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, it ensures smooth performance across all applications. Samsung has also improved the hinge design, resulting in a more durable, streamlined folding mechanism. The Z Fold 6 also includes S Pen support, allowing users to jot down notes or sketches effortlessly.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a refined evolution of Samsung’s foldable line, offering both productivity and entertainment in a sleek package. Its expansive screen and S Pen functionality make it ideal for power users, and improvements in durability and the folding mechanism make it more reliable for everyday use.

Price & Availability: Retail price: Starting at $1,899. Available globally through Samsung and major carriers.

What We Love:

• Improved hinge design for better durability.
• Expansive 7.6-inch foldable display for enhanced productivity.
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor for reliable performance.
• S Pen support for additional functionality.

Not So Great:

• It’s still a relatively high price point.
• The foldable design adds bulk compared to traditional phones.

Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL

Google’s AI-centric flagship delivers the future of smartphones today with enhanced personalization and performance.

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL focus on bringing AI advancements front and center. Powered by the Tensor G4 chipset, these devices deliver adaptive user interfaces, real-time translation, and personalized photography features. The larger 7.6-inch display on the XL offers an immersive viewing experience, while the enhanced camera system leverages AI to improve low-light shots and video stabilization. The UWB chip enhances smart home integration, allowing for precise spatial awareness. The high-quality OLED display provides a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL bring Google’s latest AI capabilities to the forefront, making them ideal for users looking for a smart and adaptive experience. The improved camera system, combined with the Tensor G4 chipset, ensures stunning photography and smooth performance across all applications. With enhanced personalization features and cutting-edge technology, these devices represent the pinnacle of Google’s innovation in 2024.

Price & Availability: The retail price of the Pro starts at $1,099 and $1,299 for the Pro XL. It is available globally through Google’s online store and major carriers.

What We Love:

• Tensor G4 chipset for enhanced AI capabilities.
• Superior computational photography for stunning images in any setting.
• UWB chip for advanced smart home integration.
• High-quality OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

Not So Great:

• Battery life could be improved, especially on the XL model.
• Limited color options at launch.

Not So Great:

• Battery life could be improved, especially on the XL model.
• Limited color options at launch.

iPhone 16

Apple’s latest iPhone 16 brings enhanced photography, customizable controls, a new camera control button, and impressive performance with the A18 chip.

The iPhone 16 refines Apple’s approach to design and performance, featuring a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display and enhanced camera capabilities. The A18 chip boosts overall efficiency for battery life, gaming, and multitasking. Smart HDR 6 and an improved night mode deliver excellent photography. The new customizable Action Button replaces the mute switch, allowing quick access to frequently used features like the camera or flashlight.

Why is it noteworthy?

The iPhone 16 is designed for users seeking premium performance in a compact form factor. Its A18 chip and enhanced camera system provide an optimal blend of speed, power efficiency, and intuitive photography tools. The customizable Action Button is a unique feature that makes day-to-day use convenient.

Price & Availability: Retail price starts at $899. It is available globally through Apple stores and major carriers.

What We Love:

• A18 chip for efficient performance and battery life.
• Smart HDR 6 for vibrant and detailed photography.
• Customizable Action Button adds convenience.
• Sleek and familiar Super Retina XDR display.

Not So Great:

• Lack of periscope zoom found in the Pro lineup

TECNO Phantom Ultimate 2

TECNO takes on the foldable competition with an ultra-thin tri-fold concept that rivals Samsung and Huawei.

The TECNO Phantom Ultimate 2 is a concept that pushes the boundaries of foldable technology, offering an ultra-thin tri-fold design poised to disrupt the market. Its seamless design features three segments that fold in harmony, creating a pocket-sized device that expands into a full-fledged tablet experience. The OLED panel is bright and sharp, making the most of its flexible form factor. TECNO has equipped the Phantom Ultimate 2 with a new cooling system to maintain optimal performance despite its thin profile while focusing on durability to ensure that the unique folding mechanism withstands everyday use.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Phantom Ultimate 2 stands out in the crowded foldable space with its daring tri-fold design, making it a bold alternative to Samsung and Huawei’s offerings. Its sleek and thin build, coupled with TECNO’s attention to durability and cooling, provides an elegant solution to common foldable issues.

Price & Availability: Currently a concept, with limited availability anticipated in select markets in late 2024.

What We Love:

• Ultra-thin tri-fold design for portability.
• Bright and sharp OLED display.
• Innovative cooling system for performance stability.

Not So Great:

• As a concept, availability is uncertain.
• Durability in real-world use remains untested.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra offers a refined design, powerful performance, and an industry-leading camera system, setting a new standard for flagship smartphones.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra continues Samsung’s tradition of pushing the boundaries of mobile technology. With a stunning 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, this device delivers exceptional brightness and color accuracy, perfect for media consumption and productivity tasks. Powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the Galaxy S24 Ultra excels in multitasking, gaming, and overall performance. Its 200MP camera system has also been enhanced, featuring improved image processing for crystal-clear photos, even in low light. The S Pen remains integrated, allowing users to jot down notes or create sketches seamlessly.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Galaxy S24 Ultra delivers top-tier specs, featuring a powerful 200MP camera and integrated S Pen for added functionality. It combines precision, versatility, and user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a premium smartphone experience.

Price & Availability: Retail price starting at $1,299. Available globally through Samsung and major carriers.

What We Love:

• 200MP camera system for incredible detail.
• Integrated S Pen for added functionality.
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for top-tier performance.
• 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with stunning brightness and color accuracy.

Not So Great:

• The large size and sharp corners make it uncomfortable for extended use and less practical for carrying in pockets.
• Charging speed is slower compared to other flagship devices.

VIVO X Fold 3 Pro

VIVO’s X Fold 3 Pro pushes the envelope of foldable phone design, putting the competition on notice with its performance and innovative features.

The VIVO X Fold 3 Pro is designed for users who demand the best of both worlds—smartphone portability and tablet functionality. With a stunning 8.03-inch AMOLED main display and a 6.53-inch cover display, this foldable offers ample screen space for productivity and entertainment. VIVO has utilized its new hinge design, which has improved durability and reduced the visible crease, making it nearly seamless when unfolded. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the X Fold 3 Pro delivers a smooth performance experience, while its camera system, developed in partnership with ZEISS, offers exceptional mobile photography capabilities.

Why is it noteworthy?

The VIVO X Fold 3 Pro impresses with its seamless design and flagship performance. The enhanced hinge mechanism and partnership with ZEISS for the camera system make it a formidable contender in the foldable market, ideal for users who want an immersive display and high-quality photography in a foldable form.

Price & Availability: Retail price starting at $1,799. Available in select markets globally.

What We Love:

• 8.03-inch AMOLED display for an expansive viewing experience.
• Improved hinge design reduces the visible crease.
• ZEISS-engineered camera system for outstanding mobile photography.
• Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for top-tier performance.

Not So Great:

• Heavier than some other foldables, making it less portable.
• Limited availability in certain regions.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Google enters the foldable market with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the thinnest, brightest, and most powerful foldable yet.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold takes the established Pixel brand and turns it into a sleek foldable that stands out for its slim profile and stunning display. At just 5.5mm when unfolded, this is the thinnest foldable on the market. The device features a bright and vivid 7.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and smooth animations. The new Tensor G4X chipset powers the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, providing powerful performance for all applications, including AI-based optimizations that improve battery efficiency and multitasking. The improved hinge mechanism is designed to be both durable and ergonomic, making the foldable experience intuitive and enjoyable.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is more than just Google’s entry into the foldable market—it represents a significant leap in design and performance, combining Google’s AI capabilities with a foldable form factor. Its incredibly thin design, powerful chipset, and stunning display make it one of the most attractive foldable options available today.

Price & Availability: Retail price starting at $1,599. Available globally through Google’s online store and major carriers.

What We Love:

• Advanced audio recording features for high-quality sound capture, perfect for content creators.
• Stunning 7.4-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
• Tensor G4X chipset for powerful performance and AI capabilities.
• Durable and ergonomic hinge mechanism.

Not So Great:

• No dust resistance, which may affect durability over time.
• The ultra-thin design compromises overall structural rigidity, making it potentially more fragile than other foldable.
• Sharp corner edges may be uncomfortable for prolonged use.

TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G

TECNO’s Phantom V Fold2 5G blends precision with innovation in foldable technology, delivering a versatile and premium experience.

The TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G is a testament to TECNO’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of foldable design. Featuring a vibrant 7.8-inch AMOLED foldable display, it offers a stunning visual experience that rivals the best in the industry. The outer 6.3-inch screen remains highly usable, giving users the convenience of a traditional smartphone when folded. Powered by the Dimensity 9200 chipset, the Phantom V Fold2 provides seamless multitasking capabilities, perfect for productivity and media consumption. TECNO has also integrated advanced hinge technology, making folding and unfolding a smooth and reliable experience.

Why is it noteworthy?

The TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G stands out with its balance of precision engineering and innovative features. The foldable AMOLED display delivers a stunning visual experience, while the Dimensity 9200 chipset ensures smooth performance. TECNO’s focus on hinge durability and usability makes this device a strong contender in the foldable market.

Price & Availability: Retail price starting at $1,499. Available globally through TECNO’s official channels and select partners.

What We Love:

• Advanced hinge technology for a smooth folding experience.
• 7.8-inch AMOLED display for stunning visuals.
• Dimensity 9200 chipset for efficient multitasking.
• Practical outer display for convenient use.

Not So Great:

• Limited color options at launch.
• Slightly heavier than some competitors.

2024 has been a year of groundbreaking advancements from tri-fold concepts to AI-powered innovations; the devices on this list highlight the best of what technology has to offer today. Whether you’re after cutting-edge features, enhanced productivity, or sleek design, this lineup of phones has something for everyone.

Do you agree with our choices? Are there any phones on your wish list, or do you already own one of these? We’d love to hear your thoughts and see how your favorite devices compare to ours!

The post 10 Best Phones of 2024 You Can’t Miss – Foldables, Flagships, and Surprises! first appeared on Yanko Design.

Flip Phones? How about we introduce an era of Flip Consoles!

Meet the Game Boy Flip, an audacious fan-made console concept that features a flip-type gadget with joy-cons. In its shut mode, you’ve got a handheld device that can be used to play Game Boy Advanced or Color games, but open the foldable and you’ve got a larger screen for a more immersive landscape-style game a la Nintendo Switch. I don’t see any cameras on this device but slap a couple and you quite literally have a flip phone that can be used for stuff other than just gaming… not bad, huh??

Designer: Abdelrahman Shaapan

The idea of a foldable gaming console seems like an absolute winner, truth be told. Flip phones are currently in a spot where they’re searching for a problem to solve – but the Game Boy Flip has no such problem. It’s a dedicated gaming device that takes its reputation seriously, offering multiple gaming modes ( we counted as many as three).

The first is just straight-up handheld touchscreen gaming. Use it in the closed mode for more retro old-school games, or open it up for a more expansive contemporary console experience. The dual touchscreens are perfect for immersing yourself in games, although there are arrow buttons on both the left and right side just in case you want some analog action.

If touchscreen gaming isn’t your jam (and a lot of bonafide gamers would feel so), the Game Boy Flip comes with snap-on Joy-Cons that let you play games with advanced controls, just like you would a GBA or Nintendo DS. The closed-display format offers the perfect size and aspect ratio for such games, making it perfect to relive old classics from years ago.

However, open the console up and you’re presented with a modern-day beast. The Joy-Cons snap to the open-screen device, now giving you a larger landscape display that’s perfect for newer games like the ones on the Switch. In fact, I’d go a step further and say the Game Boy Flip looks better than the Switch just given how slick and gorgeous that bezel-less screen is.

The only real difference is that the Joy-Cons don’t exist independently. They’re part of an armature that holds the phone in between (sort of like the Razer Kishi or the Backbone controller) with a USB-C jack plugging into the device to create a ‘wired’ connection, so you can’t detach the Joy-Cons and play with them independently the way you would on a Switch. However, that isn’t really what this concept is all about – it’s more about providing a novel template for the clamshell-style foldable phone, turning it into a Game Boy from the future that’s backward compatible, allowing you to play old classics on a small screen, and modern-day titles on the larger, landscape screen.

Now sure, this is just a fan-made concept of a Nintendo device that will probably never exist… but if anyone there can build a controller prototype for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 or even the Xiaomi Mix Flip, I’m sure there’s definitely a gamer market out there willing to rock a flip phone just for the experience of being able to play games on it effectively!

The post Foldable Game Boy console lets you go from Classic to Nintendo Switch-style Landscape gaming in seconds first appeared on Yanko Design.

Google I/O 2024 has come and gone, and despite rumors and expectations, a new foldable phone was nowhere in sight. Of course, the Google Pixel Fold is hardly the only game in town, nor is it the only one that’s expected to debut really soon. Perhaps beating both Google and Samsung to the punch, Motorola’s next-gen foldable could be hitting shelves as early as June, though it will still be competing with the likes of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip rather than the OnePlus Open and other larger foldables. Unofficial information about the device is quite thin, but the ones we’ve already heard are quite substantial and paint an interesting picture, one that could make the Motorola Razr+ 2024 or Motorola Razr 50 Ultra the clamshell foldable to beat this year.

Designer: Motorola

Motorola Razr+ 2024: Design

According to sources, this year’s Motorola foldable would look exactly like last year’s Motorola foldable, save for some changes in screen size. That means the Motorola Razr+ 2024’s external screen will still cover the entire surface of the upper half of the phone’s back, leaving only room for the camera lenses themselves. It might sound like a letdown and a sign of lack of innovation over at Motorola, but sticking to a design that works is also a sign of maturity, especially since the design is only a year old.

Image courtesy of: MSPoweruser

Motorola’s design for its Cover Screen is admittedly divisive. On the one hand, it’s the only foldable of its kind that utilizes the whole area, while others make do with tiny rectangles, even tinier circles, or a square with an uneven cutout to make way for cameras. On the other hand, this also makes for a weird arrangement that actually cuts out part of the display anyway, making the image or text in that area inaccessible.

Motorola is also the only brand that allows normal apps to run on that external screen, which is both an advantage and a disadvantage. Regardless, it seems to be sticking to its guns for one more year, offering an experience that, while faithful to the design spirit of the original RAZR, isn’t afraid to go beyond to offer something new and useful.

Motorola Razr+ 2024: Specs and Software

While the Moto Razr+ 2024, or Moto Razr 50 Ultra, won’t look any different on the outside, it will be a very different beast on the inside. Of course, there’s the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 leading the changes, and there will supposedly be a larger external screen at 3.9 inches up from last year’s 3.6-inch Cover Screen. There will also be 12GB of RAM paired with 256GB of storage, while the battery has been expanded from 3,800mAh to 4,000mAh.

Given the expected launch windows, the 2024 Razr will be running Android 14 out of the box, and while it might sound like Motorola would upgrade it once Android 15 comes out, there’s not really any certainty. After all, the Motorola Razr+ 2023, which launched with Android 13, still received Android 14 half a year later. Despite being once owned by Google (now under Lenovo’s stewardship), Motorola’s track record for Android updates sadly isn’t that impressive.

Motorola Razr+ 2024: Cameras

Part of the big upgrades coming to the Motorola Razr+ 2024 according to those rumors is an upgrade to the camera system. It will now have not one but two 50MP cameras, one of which has a wide lens while the other is capable of 2x telephoto zoom. Given how Motorola advertises its foldable phone as a sort of mini camcorder, more capable cameras are definitely in order. The 32MP selfie camera, on the other, might remain the same as last year.

Motorola Razr+ 2024: Price and Release Date

There has been no word on the exact date when the Motorola Razr+ 2024 will be launched, which might go by the name of Motorola Razr 50 Ultra in other markets, but all signs point to yet another June release. In fact, the device was spotted making its way through a certification process, suggesting that its debut is close at hand. The leak also confirms what we’ve heard about the design, that it would be a dead knocker for last year’s model.

Image courtesy of: 91mobiles

That leak also “revealed” the color options for the Razr+ 2024, which include Blue, Orange, and Green instead of last year’s Black, Magenta, and Peach. But the more interesting detail about the phone is its starting price of $999 for the base model with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. That’s the same price for half the capacity last year, so it will definitely make the Motorola Razr+ 2024 the cheapest flagship foldable in the market.

Motorola Razr+ 2024: Final Thoughts

Although they are younger than the larger foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold, clamshell-style foldables have become better accepted and sought after. They’re usually more affordable and look more stylish, bringing to mind the flip phones of old. They’re pocketability makes a bit more sense to most people who don’t need a phone that turns into a tablet, and their accessible price tag makes them feel more like regular flagships rather than overpriced novelties.

Of the many foldable flip phones in the market right now, the Motorola Razr+ 2024 seems to offer a more reasonable balance of features and price, especially one from a reputable brand. It looks like this year will show a significant upgrade, at least internally, while still keeping the design that has won fans. That said, Motorola’s Android updates don’t inspire confidence, and we’ve yet to see it make any improvements in that regard.

The post Motorola Razr+ 2024 foldable phone: News, Rumors, Price, and Release Date first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphones today seem to look very similar, varying only in the shape of the camera bump and the color of their backs. Sometimes, the materials might be different, too, but the same large-sized “candy bar” form factor has become the standard for all the smartphones currently in the market. There was a time, however, when companies were a bit more daring, experimenting with phone designs and features in an attempt to stand out from the crowd. That did lead to some rather eccentric and sometimes even ridiculous designs that make us question the sanity of the minds behind them. But there are times when those odd designs of the past actually have important relevance today. Here are five such phone design oddities that we wished existed or still exist, and some alternatives in case you may have been smitten by their quirky appearance.

Designer: Google, Motorola

Undying Handset: Project Ara

Google’s Project Ara inspired the idea of a modular smartphone whose components you can easily swap to upgrade or repair parts. In theory, this would make the phone last forever, or at least as long as the base is intact and parts continue to be manufactured for it. In practice, it was a very ambitious endeavor that could neither meet expectations nor present a viable business model that wouldn’t bankrupt manufacturers. In the end, that sustainable and immortal smartphone remained just a dream, at least in that idealistic and perfect form.

Alternative: Fairphone 5

Designer: Fairphone

Fortunately, a part of that dream is actually possible and even sustainable in more ways than one. Although you can’t hot swap components on the fly, the Fairphone 5 at least offers a way for owners to change important parts of the phone, like batteries or even cameras, to keep them running almost forever. There are some limitations, of course, but if all you want is a phone that will last you for almost a decade instead of just two years, this self-repairable design pretty much has that in the bag.

Mobile Shutterbug: Nokia N90

One of the biggest uses for smartphones today next to social media is taking photos and videos. In the days even before the term “smartphone” was coined, even the most advanced handsets from the likes of Nokia could barely hold a candle to point-and-click cameras. That’s why the quirky Nokia N90 was prophetic and way ahead of its time, envisioning a day when smartphones would be used like camcorders, though with a bit more awkwardness due to their inflexible designs.

Alternative: Nokia x Nothing Concept

Designer: Viet Doan Duc

While clamshell phones are back in season thanks to foldable screens, the folding and twisting design of the original Nokia N90 remains a distant memory. This concept tries to answer the question of “what if?” and mixes two famed brands’ design languages to craft what could be the perfect camera phone. It makes you feel like a pro photographer or cinematographer, holding up your phone not with shame but with pride, capturing not only the moment but also people’s attention in a good way.

Pocket Book: YotaPhone Dual-Screen Phone

Designer: YotaDevices

E Ink devices are becoming more popular these days, especially after the addition of features like stylus support and color. These displays are easy on the eyes and the battery, allowing the screen to show the same thing for days without requiring a recharge. A few years back, a small company tried to bring those benefits to the smartphone in the oddest way, by putting an E Ink screen on its back. Although it can be used for reading e-books on the go, its main purpose was to have a battery-saving always-on display that is a bit more dynamic and useful than typical AOD implementations.

Alternative: Onyx BOOX Palma

Designer: BOOX

That said, a phone-sized Android device with an E Ink display might be an even more efficient design, which is what the Onyx BOOX Palma is offering. Technically, it’s an e-book reader that’s the size of a regular phone and actually runs Android, which is the standard for BOOX’s devices. This means it has access to the same apps you have on your regular phone, but without color. You also don’t have cellular connectivity via a SIM card, which might be a deal-breaker for a phone but a great deal for distraction-free reading and mobility.

Productive Minimalism: Minimal Phone

Designer: The Minimal Company

BlackBerry might have joined the likes of Nokia and LG as just parts of the annals of mobile history, but its squarish shape and QWERTY keyboard are forever etched in the consciousness of even the least tech-savvy person on the planet. Many have tried to recreate that magic, but this rather elegant yet odd phone puts a twist to it. It combines the iconic BlackBerry design with an E Ink screen and a minimalist aesthetic, promising distraction-free productivity by actually limiting what you can do on the device. It can even make it easier to actually reply to or post on social media, though the drab grayscale screen is probably going to make that a little less enjoyable anyway.

Alternative: Clicks QWERTY Case

Designer: Clicks

The idea of a BlackBerry-like experience might tickle the fancy of smartphone users, but none of them will be willing to ditch their powerful, colorful, and highly functional smartphones. Clicks is a case that tries to bring the best of both worlds, and it’s practically just a case that slides onto an iPhone to provide that tactile typing experience. You won’t have to give up your favorite apps, especially the ones you need to actually be productive, but the burden of being disciplined and ignoring distractions is now on you instead.

Shapeshifting Multitasker: Astro Slide 5G

Designer: Planet Computers

A phone that opens like a mini typewriter has actually been around since the days of the Nokia Communicator and its kin, but that design proved to be more complicated than they’re worth. After playing with that same design, PlanetComputing shifted to a slider that still provides that typing experience while retaining the exact same functions as a phone. Unfortunately, such a mechanism proved to be just as clunky and unreliable, and the software platform didn’t exactly lend itself well to a landscape screen.

Alternative: Any Foldable Phone

Designer: OPPO

These days, you don’t have to rely on a physical qwerty keyboard to have that same mini laptop experience. With foldable phones now more common, you can tap away on a more flexible on-screen keyboard when the device is only half-folded. At the same time, however, you have both phone and tablet functionality in your hands. Admittedly, the design is far from perfect, and we’re still waiting for more affordable foldables coming in the very near future.

The post Top 5 Quirky Phone Designs That Actually Make Sense first appeared on Yanko Design.