Lenovo unveils concept laptop called Project Crystal with transparent display design

At MWC 2024, Lenovo showcased a concept laptop named Project Crystal, featuring a transparent display design, alongside a variety of devices designed to advance edge computing. Additionally, they introduced a new version of the Smart Connect technology for cross-device connectivity.

Project Crystal, revealed by Lenovo, is a concept laptop equipped with a transparent display design utilizing a micro-LED display panel. This innovative design allows for the mirroring of screen content, enabling viewers opposite the laptop to see the display without the need to rotate the laptop or screen.

the new Lenovo ThinkBook Transparent Display Laptop proof of concept

Furthermore, Lenovo emphasized that, by integrating a camera system, Project Crystal could support augmented reality display applications, thereby enhancing the laptop’s functionality.

When in sleep mode or with the screen turned off, Project Crystal’s transparent display resembles a piece of transparent glass with a slight tint of brown. Upon activation, the screen can illuminate content with a brightness of up to 1000 nits. Lenovo also disclosed plans to potentially add a display layer in the future, allowing for a quick switch to a conventional display mode. This layer could obscure the screen from behind, preventing onlookers from viewing the screen’s content.

Project Crystal does not feature a physical keyboard; instead, it opts for a touch interface, offering the flexibility to change the control interface according to various user needs. The downside is a lack of tactile feedback and a higher risk of accidental touches. However, Lenovo plans to use artificial intelligence to learn user habits and minimize accidental inputs.

Currently, Lenovo has no plans to market Project Crystal as a commercial product. The concept features a new processor design and fewer ports, indicating that numerous details still require refinement.

In addition to Project Crystal, Lenovo also announced the launch of several laptop products, including the ThinkPad T14 i Gen 5, ThinkPad T14s Gen 5, ThinkPad T16 Gen 3, ThinkPad X12 Detachable Gen 2, and ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4. These products aim to enhance edge computing capabilities through the integration of artificial intelligence technology. Moreover, Lenovo unveiled a new version of the Smart Connect technology, compatible with Lenovo laptops and Motorola smartphones, to facilitate easier file exchanges and collaborative work across different devices.