Chameleon-Inspired Smartphone Shifts Color Instantly When Submerged in Water
World’s First Cold-Sensitive Color-Changing Smartphone Makes a Splash at MWC
At this year’s Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Chinese tech brand Realme stole the spotlight with the world’s first smartphone that changes color when exposed to cold temperatures. Priced at €379, the Realme 14 Pro 5G transforms from pearly white to marbled blue when temperatures drop below 61°F (16°C)—a feature demonstrated live by dipping it into ice-cold water.
The Realme 14 Pro instantly shifts hues when submerged in cold water.
How It Works
The device uses thermochromic pigment embedded in its back panel, inspired by “deep-sea creatures like jellyfish.” Mixed with seashell powder, the matte-finish cover creates a unique pearl-like texture. The colder the environment, the faster the color change occurs—though Realme admits the effect may fade with frequent use. The phone is waterproof (IP69-rated) and survives brief underwater stints (up to 30 minutes at depths below 6.5 feet), but it’s not designed for diving. “Water damage from improper use isn’t covered by the warranty,” the company warns.
Each phone’s wave-patterned back panel is unique, like a fingerprint.
A Fashion Statement
Targeting younger users in India—where it’s already on sale—the phone is more about style than utility. Chase Xu, Realme’s CMO, calls it an “interactive feature [that] captures the ocean’s mystique.” The device also boasts a 6.7-inch display and a triple-camera system with low-light skin-tone correction. However, Realme confirmed it won’t launch in the UK after exiting the market last year.
MWC 2024 Highlights
While Realme’s color-shifting tech drew crowds, MWC’s broader theme—“Converge. Connect. Create”—focused on next-gen connectivity. Discussions around 6G dominated, though the technology remains years away from consumer use. Major exhibitors like Samsung, Huawei, and Xiaomi showcased innovations, though Apple continued its tradition of skipping the event.
The Realme 14 Pro on display at MWC, suspended in a water tank.
The Bottom Line
Realme’s icy gimmick offers a playful twist on smartphone design, blending aesthetics with mild interactivity. While its practical applications are limited, the phone underscores the industry’s push for standout features in a competitive market. For now, it’s a chilly—and optional—upgrade for trend-conscious buyers.
Final Look
The textured back panel uses seashell powder for a pearlescent finish.
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