Tecno has unveiled a modular smartphone concept design at MWC 2026 featuring a base unit that measures just 4.9mm thick. This base model is thinner than a standard pencil and Apple’s iPhone Air. When attaching the included power bank module, the device’s thickness increases to that of a standard modern smartphone.
The company developed a new interconnection technology for the system that utilizes a combination of magnets and pin connectors. Magnets are used to handle the physical attachment of modules, while pin connectors manage power delivery. Data transmission between the phone and the various modules is handled wirelessly. The system is capable of switching between Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mmWave depending on the user’s location.
Tecno has created a total of 10 modules for the ecosystem. These include various camera lenses and a dedicated gaming controller. The design is available in two colorways: a silver-aluminum edition and a grey version.
This release remains a concept design and is not currently available for consumer purchase. Tecno has previously released other devices, including an affordable foldable phone, a model featuring a pop-out portrait lens, and a foldable phone with a circular exterior display.
The modular smartphone concept has a history of limited commercial success. Google’s Project Ara prototype dates back over a decade but never shipped. LG launched the semi-modular G5 in 2016, which sold poorly. Moto also released semi-modular smartphones that failed to gain market traction.
