TCL Tab 8 NxtPaper 5G Debuts with Switchable e-Ink–Style and Full-Color Display

TCL has introduced the Tab 8 NxtPaper 5G, a compact Android tablet that blends the reading comfort of e-Ink with the versatility of a full-color screen. Building on the success of the NxtPaper 11 released earlier this year, the new device is TCL’s second to showcase its proprietary NxtPaper technology.

At the core of the Tab 8 is TCL’s NxtPaper 4.0 display, a matte, paper-like panel designed to reduce glare and replicate the look of traditional e-readers. Unlike conventional e-Ink, however, the screen supports full-color output, offering users the flexibility to stream video, browse social media, or read books without eye strain.

The tablet features several viewing modes tailored to different activities. Regular Mode is optimized for video and app use, Color Ink Paper balances color with eye comfort for comics and illustrated content, and Ink Paper Mode simulates a monochrome e-reader for long reading sessions. An additional AI-powered Eye Comfort Mode automatically adjusts brightness and color temperature depending on usage.

Measuring 8.7 inches with a resolution of 1340 × 800, the NxtPaper panel uses nano-etched layers for an anti-glare finish. TCL has also incorporated DC dimming and blue-light reduction to further ease eye fatigue. The matte surface enhances usability across both indoor and outdoor environments.

Inside, the Tab 8 NxtPaper runs on a MediaTek MT8755 processor paired with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, expandable via microSD up to 2TB. Camera options include an 8MP rear shooter and a 5MP front-facing lens for video calls. A 6,000 mAh battery promises all-day endurance on a single charge. Connectivity features include 5G support, dual microphones with noise reduction, and dual stereo speakers.

The device ships with Android 16 and retains a lightweight build at just 365 grams. Its dimensions measure 211.88 × 125.58 × 8.35 mm, keeping it slim and portable.

The TCL Tab 8 NxtPaper 5G is priced at $199.99 and currently available through Verizon in the U.S. Total Wireless stores are expected to carry the tablet later this year, though TCL has not yet announced a wider release timeline.