After a long silence, the Alcatel smartphone brand is poised to make a comeback in the Indian market. Flipkart's latest listing reveals that Alcatel is set to release three new V3 series smartphones on May 27: the V3 Ultra, V3 Pro 5G, and V3 Classic 5G.However, these seemingly new models are likely rebranded versions of existing TCL devices—a "white-label" strategy that has attracted widespread industry attention.

As the flagship of the series, the V3 Ultra stands out with its specs. It features a triple-camera setup with a 108MP main sensor, 8MP ultra-wide lens, and 2MP macro lens, along with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The device runs on a 5010mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging. Uniquely, it comes with a bundled stylus and protective case, although the phone itself lacks a built-in stylus slot. It also retains the 3.5mm headphone jack and includes a dedicated button to switch to the simulated e-ink "Max Ink" display mode.

According to NotebookCheck, the V3 Ultra is essentially a rebranded TCL 50 Pro NxtPaper. If that is accurate, the phone is likely equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor and a 32MP front camera. Notably, this phone is being developed and sold by Indian manufacturer NxtCell, rather than produced directly by TCL. Such brand licensing is common in the smartphone industry, but Alcatel's choice to adopt this model in India indicates strategic considerations specific to the market.

The slightly lower-tier V3 Pro 5G also focuses on the e-ink display experience. It features a 6.7-inch 120Hz screen and supports the "Max Ink" mode via a dedicated button. Official listings indicate it comes with 8GB RAM and a 5200mAh battery, and it includes Google’s Gemini AI assistant. NotebookCheck speculates this model is a rebranded TCL 60 SE NxtPaper 5G. The entry-level V3 Classic 5G is promoted as "India’s first phone with NXTVISION display," emphasizing eye protection and SDR-to-HDR enhancement. It features a Dimensity 6300 processor, 120Hz display, 128GB expandable storage, a 50MP main camera, 8MP front camera, a 5200mAh battery with 18W charging, and NFC support. Reports suggest it is a rebranded version of the TCL 60 5G.

Based on the available details, the three new devices target the mid-range segment, emphasizing differentiated display technology and practical features. The simulated e-ink functionality, in particular, could appeal to users prioritizing eye comfort.In India's highly competitive smartphone market, Alcatel's ability to make a comeback with rebranded models will hinge on how well it prices and markets its products.

Industry analysts suggest that Alcatel’s timing reflects confidence in India’s growing mid-range smartphone market.

It’s worth noting that the V3 Ultra makes certain trade-offs. Compared to the TCL 50 Pro NxtPaper’s 512GB storage, the V3 Ultra offers only 128GB—but upgrades the RAM from 4GB to 8GB. This likely aims to balance performance with affordability to better penetrate the Indian market. Reports suggest the V3 Ultra could be priced around ₹20,000 (approx. $240), which would make it highly competitive in the mid-range segment.

The e-ink display feature may be the V3 series' biggest draw. A physical NxtPaper button on the side allows users to toggle between four display modes: full color, colored paper, ink-paper, and Max Ink. In Max Ink mode, the screen switches to a low-refresh, black-and-white state that is claimed to significantly reduce power consumption, making it ideal for prolonged reading. While this could enhance experiences like e-book reading and document viewing, its acceptance for everyday use remains to be seen.

The Alcatel brand traces its roots back to the 1960s and was once a major player in the European mobile market. However, it gradually lost relevance in the smartphone era. Now attempting a comeback via rebranding, whether Alcatel can reclaim its former glory remains uncertain. Still, the V3 series' focus on distinctive display technology and functional features shows Alcatel’s intention to carve out a niche in India's crowded smartphone landscape.

For consumers, Alcatel's return offers another choice—especially in the niche of e-ink smartphones, where options are limited. If the V3 series can strike the right balance between pricing and user experience, it may indeed stir up the Indian market.