The global smartphone market is embracing a new design shift: ultra-slim devices. While the last decade focused on camera megapixels, processing power, and display quality, the spotlight is now on phones that are incredibly thin and lightweight. Leading this charge in India is Tecno Mobiles, which has launched its Pova Slim 5G, a handset that stands out for its sleekness at just 5.95mm thick and 156 grams in weight.
Why Thin Smartphones Are Back in Focus
Over the years, most smartphones have begun to look strikingly similar, with only minor differences in finish or camera placement. That uniformity has left brands searching for a fresh identity. According to Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of Tecno Mobiles India, consumers are ready for something different.
“Every brand is highlighting cameras, RAM, and display, but visually, phones are almost the same. We wanted to deliver a design that breaks away from this monotony — something instantly recognizable,” says Talapatra.
The result: a smartphone that is as slim as a pencil but still practical enough for everyday users.
Balancing Style and Performance
One of the biggest concerns with thin smartphones is whether they can maintain strong performance and battery life. Tecno’s Pova Slim 5G aims to answer that by combining sleek design with a 5,160 mAh battery, larger than what many premium thin phones, like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge (3,900 mAh), offer.
Key features include:
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED screen
- Battery: 5,160 mAh capacity
- Design: 5.95mm slim, 156 grams light
- Cameras: Dual rear camera system
- Price: Rs 19,999 (~$226)
Despite being ultra-thin, the device doesn’t compromise on essentials, making it a practical choice for Indian consumers.
Why Slim Phones Could Work in India
India presents a unique environment for smartphone usage. With network shifts between 4G and 5G draining batteries faster, users often demand bigger batteries. At the same time, Talapatra notes that people don’t want bulky devices anymore.
“Consumers don’t want to carry heavy phones. Foldable devices failed to meet expectations because users mostly stick to the primary display, which makes carrying that extra weight unnecessary. A lightweight design with solid battery performance is the way forward,” he explains.
Market Position and Competitors
Tecno, part of the Transsion Group, manufactures its devices in India with three factories and an office in Noida. Unlike Apple or Samsung, which target high-end buyers, Tecno competes more directly with Vivo and Oppo in the mid-range market.
The brand has a strong offline presence in tier-3 and tier-4 cities, which helps it connect with price-conscious buyers. With a launch price between Rs 15,000 and Rs 20,000, the Pova Slim 5G aims to offer both affordability and differentiation.
Apple’s Rumoured Slim iPhone Could Help
Interestingly, reports suggest that Apple is set to unveil its iPhone Air 17 with a 5.5mm slim profile and a 6.6-inch display. While Tecno does not directly compete with Apple, Talapatra believes this could validate the slim-phone category.
“If Apple introduces a slim iPhone, it will only fuel consumer interest in ultra-thin devices — which can benefit us too,” he remarks.
A Turning Point in Smartphone Design?
The real question is whether consumers are ready to prioritize slimness over bulkier phones that pack extra hardware. For Tecno, the bet is clear: offer a distinct design, big battery, and competitive pricing to make slim smartphones mainstream in India.
If the strategy works, the Tecno Pova Slim 5G may become the device that shifts consumer focus from just specs to style and usability, marking a new phase in smartphone evolution.
