TCL has announced the launch of the TCL 10 Series, which will also include a 5G-capable device priced at £399.

Although the company is yet to announce what markets this 5G device will be available in, such launches are a critical component of the 5G machine. Some might turn their noses up at a device which does not break the bank account thanks to overpriced features and a desirable logo, but low-end smartphones are incredibly important to democratise connectivity and take 5G into the mainstream markets.

“As one of the world’s leading consumer electronics brands, expanding the TCL brand into the mobile space ensures that we are one of the only global manufacturers that offers a fully integrated ecosystem of smart products in virtually every aspect of your life,” said Kevin Wang, CEO of TCL.

“This makes it possible for us to provide our customers with a wide range of products capable of working seamlessly together and do so more affordably than everyone else.”

At £399, the 5G device certainly undercuts what is available currently on the market.

There are of course other devices available, and TCL will be chasing after a different type of customers than many of the more well-known brands, but this is an important moment for the development and normalisation of 5G. With a £399 device on the market, 5G connectivity is no-longer a product for the rich.

It might sound too good to be true, but you have to of course bear in mind that the specs will be a downgrade for those who are used to be best and nothing else, but this is not necessarily a bad thing.

The 5G era will not be driven by premium devices alone. For the majority of individuals, these are aspirational products, something worth saving for, but there will have to be devices to fill the meantime space.

Today, 5G is only for the wealthy. Tariffs perhaps need to come down in price, but devices certainly do. Brands like TCL will play a very important part in the future of connectivity.