Toshiba used to sell a laptop (IIRC the model name was R500) back in like 2008 that had a mirror behind the screen, meaning that bright sunlight would be reflected back through the LCD and always respond to external lighting conditions no matter how bright. The image quality and color was shitty, but you could use it in the sun. Battery time was also extremely impressive.

[–] merc@sh.itjust.works 3 points 2 days ago

The same thing would work with e-ink. It works fine in super bright sunlight. Unfortunately since it physically spins little balls with electromagnets the refresh rate is very slow compared to conventional screens.

[–] AllHailTheSheep@sh.itjust.works 4 points 2 days ago

interesting. most modern lcds have a shiny reflective layer behind the backlight for this reason, I wonder if they're all modeled after toshibas design