ome smartphone brands love experimenting with unusual designs. One such idea is adding a screen on the back of the phone. At first glance, it looks unique—almost like the brand is trying to prove it’s different from the rest. For example, models like the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra introduced this feature, but the question remains: does it really add value or is it just a flashy gimmick?
The issue with back screens is that they often introduce unnecessary functions. Instead of focusing on core improvements like performance, battery life, or camera quality, resources are spent on features that may not matter much in daily use.
A back screen can grab attention for a while, but sustaining this feature in future models is not easy. Once users lose interest, the entire investment becomes wasteful. Inside companies, such features also spark endless debates about whether they should continue in upcoming models, leading to wasted time and resources.
There are simpler ways to attract users without adding an entire extra display. For instance, small notification lights can achieve the same goal at a fraction of the cost.
Another downside is the extra burden on the phone itself. A back screen consumes more power, raises the overall cost, and makes repairs far more expensive if it breaks. The only practical advantage is that the space near the camera gets used more efficiently, allowing selfies with the rear camera.
Still, this doesn’t seem like a trend that will survive for long. Back screens feel more like a marketing trick to stand out rather than a meaningful innovation that improves the smartphone experience.
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