Tecno revealed a new concept that combines one of the trends of the past, which is modular phones, and one of the most prominent trends of the present, which is ultra-thin phones, to present us with the Tecno Modular Phone.
The company is showcasing this concept during MWC events as a technology platform that paves the way for future innovations.
The basic idea is based on breaking the traditional restrictions in smartphones, as current devices impose on the user a fixed set of hardware, and there is no way to obtain new features except by replacing the phone completely. This conceptual system allows components to be added or replaced daily or even instantaneously, according to the user’s needs.
The system is based on two versions: the Atom Edition in silver and red, and the Moda Edition in dark gray and gold with a more bold character.
The thickness of the two phones is only 4.9 mm, a full millimeter less than the Tecno Spark Slim, with a glass back with a matte finish, in addition to a precisely designed rectangular magnetic array to securely hold additional units.
Unlike MagSafe, the Tecno system relies on physical conduction via Pogo Pins to transfer power more efficiently and with less heat compared to wireless charging.
This highlights the benefit of accessories such as the Power Bank, which doubles the actual battery life, despite being only 4.5 mm thick, keeping the device slim even after it is installed.
In contrast, Tecno relies on wireless connectivity to transfer data between the phone and the units, as the system supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and even mmWave depending on the requirements of each accessory.
Simple units like a power bank or game controller suffice with Bluetooth, while more complex units like an Action Camera or Telephoto lens need a high-speed, low-latency connection, which Wi-Fi or mmWave technologies provide.
It is noted that the Atom Edition includes one set of power connectors, while the Moda Edition contains two sets, which opens the way for wider customization options in the future. However, some larger units cover the entire back of the phone, meaning only one accessory is used at a time.
Currently, the Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology is a prototype to showcase the company’s engineering capabilities.
But if it moves to the production stage and achieves widespread acceptance, Tecno may open the way for other companies to participate in building an integrated ecosystem of accessories.
