At CES 2026, TCL showcased its latest NxtPaper tablet, the Note A1, which positions itself as an alternative to the ReMarkable and Kindle Scribe tablets, offering a notes-first approach. Its software is locked down to prioritize productivity and focus, so if you’re looking for a device for media consumption, you may want to consider TCL’s other offerings.
This productivity focus is most highlighted by its updated display, the NxtPaper Pure, as TCL calls it. Unlike previous iterations of the NxtPaper series of tablets that allow you to switch from a matte E Ink-like view to a full color display, NxtPaper Pure offers no such option, offering up a “paper only” display with the Note A1.
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The 11.5-inch Note A1 has additional features surrounding the display. It runs at 120Hz, meaning a blazing smooth experience that is essentially unheard of in the E Ink space. The screen technology is an LCD panel capable of displaying 16.77 million colors, which will drain the battery faster compared to traditional E Ink screens, but provides a smoother overall experience.
The body of the Note A1 is made of aerospace-grade aluminum, with an 8,000-mAh battery that powers the device. It’s also kept thin and light, measuring only 5.5mm and weighing 500 grams, making it easy to stay in your hands for extended periods. Speaking of which, like the ReMarkable Pro and Kindle Scribe, the Note A1 comes with a wide bezel on one side for easier grip. It also features a customizable home button in this panel for easy access to important tools.
The Note A1’s sidekick is a stylus, which makes handwriting feel close to as natural as it does on paper. Featuring 8,192 levels of pressure, dual tips, eraser and X-axis linear motor, writing on the Note A1 should be a solid and smooth experience in every way.
A stripped-down Android runs the show
Running the show under the hood is Android, but you’d almost never guess. The heavily customized user interface focuses on productivity features and lacks even the most familiar attributes of the OS for a distraction-free work environment. A signature feature of the Note A1 is the Split View mode, which allows you to read, take notes and transcribe audio simultaneously.
Throughout Note A1, you’ll find Microsoft applications and integrations, such as Edge for web browsing and the Copilot AI assistant. Since it’s running Android, there may be a way to install additional apps, although TCL isn’t making that a selling point for the tablet.
As with any new devices announced these days, you’ll find a host of AI features at your fingertips as well. AI summaries, meeting transcriptions and AI writing enhancements are always a tap away.
Available later this year, you can secure your Note A1 on Kickstarter by pledging around $437 (converted from HK$3,403) right now. The website notes that shipping fees will be collected via a survey after the campaign concludes, and that the product is only available for shipping to select countries.
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