2025 is the year where device manufacturers are back in the war to see who can produce the thinnest smartphone. My memory is still fresh from the iPhone 6 era, which can be said to be the last era of the thin device war. The latest at MWC Barcelona 2025 is the TECNO SPARK Slim.
USER EXPERIENCE
TECNO SPARK Slim is a premium mid-range device. It is powered by a mysterious chip with 8-cores, 8GB RAM memory with virtual memory support, 50MP dual cameras, 13MP selfie camera, device design with a long camera bump and has an LED light effect like the Disney animated film character – Baymax.
This device is also complete with AI features such as the new Ella Voice, DeepSeek integration and more. The device is also only 5.75mm thick. This is like the iPhone 17 Air, which is under 6mm which is clearly thinner than the Galaxy S25 Edge. However, it is still quite thick when compared to the Oppo Find N5 when opened. There are no additional physical buttons, the device only supports eSIM and there is no physical SIM card slot.
In the hand, the device feels very strange because it is very light and feels like holding some kind of gaming phone. I don't like the glossy plastic finish which is very slippery and easily scratched, besides I don't like seeing a curved design in 2025. I hope that this device can use construction materials such as titanium or aluminum, for a cooler feeling in the hand and a more luxurious feel.
There is not much to test on this device because it is just a prototype. However, in short use – I can feel that it will offer a user experience like a regular TECNO device but in a slightly unique and thin body. Their software does not offer any unique features other than the animation on the camera bump.
CONCLUSION
For a mid-range device like this, it is indeed a unique device. Only for long-term use, it raises concerns about the durability of the device's body. Devices like this are usually very prone to cracked screens, broken devices and so on if stored in a narrow space or the device is hit with not very heavy pressure.
Anyway, TECNO clearly seems ready to offer this device to the public because they are the only ones who let us test and hold this device. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is just like an art exhibition and seeing it in person is disappointing. Which one will be your thinnest device of choice, Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, iPhone 17 Air or TECNO SPARK Slim?
PROS & ADVANTAGES
Very thin and cool.
The camera bump seems to have animation and personality.
Stable performance as far as short usage trials go.
Complete with AI features.
CONS & DISADVANTAGES
Strange design, and a lot needs to be fixed.
Not a flagship device.
The design and body that can be felt will not last long.