In a world where traditional glass slab smartphones have seemingly reached their peak, technological giants are in a race to introduce innovative designs and features. Leading the charge are South Korean conglomerates like Samsung and LG, with Samsung now taking the lead following LG’s exit from the smartphone market. The latest breakthrough from Samsung comes in the form of a patent for a square-shaped mobile device with an extendable display, pushing the boundaries of conventional smartphone design.
The unveiling of this groundbreaking patent showcases a compact square device with a unique display that can slide out from either end. This development comes on the heels of Samsung’s recent patents for two technologies named Flex Magic and Flex Magic Pixel in Europe, which were described as enabling screen expansion for smartphones. While the US patent doesn’t explicitly reference these terms, it signifies Samsung’s continued commitment to pioneering new display technologies.
Website Rating and David Kowalski from xleaks7 discovered the patent, revealing that Samsung Display is the entity behind the application, filed on June 22, 2023. The patent outlines Samsung’s efforts to safeguard a novel display technology, allowing the screen to extend in various directions. Notably, the patent introduces a significant improvement in the form of a metal layer at the end of the sliding display. This protective layer aims to prevent excessive bouncing, ultimately strengthening the device and mitigating the risk of screen damage.
The patent suggests that this technology is versatile and compatible with both OLED and LCDs, indicating its potential application across a range of Samsung devices. While the patent does not explicitly mention square-shaped smartphones, it leaves room for speculation about potential applications in other devices such as smart TVs, augmented reality (AR) devices, or entirely new gadgets.
Samsung’s relentless pursuit of innovation extends beyond this extendable display concept. Recent revelations from the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) platform showcase Samsung’s exploration of diverse display technologies for smartphones and laptops. One notable patent features a Samsung laptop with a distinctive roller design, where the laptop is housed within a cylindrical roller. This design hints at a futuristic approach to portable computing, challenging the conventional laptop form factor.
Furthermore, Samsung’s commitment to advancing foldable smartphone technology is evident in its exploration of a third type of foldable device with a dual-folding display. A recent appearance on the WIPO platform has fueled speculation about Samsung developing a smartphone with a screen that stretches to the right, showcasing the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of display technology.
As Samsung continues to secure patents for cutting-edge innovations, these developments underscore the company’s determination to redefine the future of mobile technology. While the exact timeline for the commercial release of these groundbreaking devices remains uncertain, Samsung’s patent portfolio signals a new era in smartphone design and functionality, promising consumers a glimpse into the limitless possibilities of the tech giant’s inventive spirit.