Xtouch is the first phone to use 3D printing for manufacture says Bluboo

Bluboo are claiming that their Bluboo Xtouch is the first smartphone to use 3D printing to produce a 3.0D curved rear shell.

3D printing is a technology that has really taken off, not only is it popular for the hobbiest in their homes, but also large factories around the world are adopting the manufacturing process. The benefits of 3D printing are speed and that 3D products can be made without the need of costly moulds.

Bluboo say that their factory is using 3D printing technology to produce the 3.0D curved rear panels for the Bluboo Xtouch. I had to confirm with Bluboo if what they were telling us was true (and not just using buzz words to create hype around their phone) and the news seems to be genuine.

Apparently an advanced 3D printing process is used to creat the curved rear panel (which has a similar design as the rear of the Xiaomi Mi Note), and is then finished in a reflective Nano Coating to give the diamond pattern effect.

I asked Bluboo if they had a video of the manufacturing processor, but they declined to offer one for reasons of secrecy, instead they gave us the following video which shows how flexible and strong the 3D printed rear panel of the Bluboo Xtouch is. You can also see the plastic ‘weave’ from the 3D printing process on the rear of the cover too.

The Bluboo Xtouch will cost $149.99 during the presale period (with a chance to earn a $50 saving if you create a review of the phone). The handset features 3GB RAM, fingerprint scanner, JDI FHD display, Sony IMX214 rear camera, metal chassis and unique 3-in SIM SD card slot (dual sims and SD card at the same time). Once presales are over the price will $179.99.

Anyone planning to purchase the Bluboo Xtouch for their 2016 device?