Despite the reliability problems encountered so far, Samsung does not give up the development of a foldable and more sophisticated phone.
Described in a recent patent granted to the South Korean company, the device that we do not know exists and in reality appears with a large screen, which folds on two sides. The result is three sides / screens, but just as well the phone could be considered with a single screen that folds around the case. However, the patent uses the description “multi-foldable device”, respectively “foldable electronic device including electronic pen”.
The gap left at the back is closed between the two edges of the screen folded by the S Pen accessory, fixed by means of a magnetic double-role clamping system. Thus, the stylus is also charged wirelessly when attached for transport, the patent even describes two working modes: high-speed charging with fixing on both sides of the screen and standard-charging, using a single contact area.
Surprisingly, the sketches attached to the 48-page patent also describe the possibility of folding the screen without the S Pen accessory being caught in the middle. In this case, the two halves of the screen “stick” under the attraction of the same magnetic fastening system. We can assume that the S Pen accessory is either hidden in a compartment positioned under the OLED screen, or that the folding mechanism allows the screen to partially run to fill the remaining gap.
Apparently, Samsung is exploring both the option of a foldable screen phone on the outside of the case, but also on the inside, the second option offering better protection during transport. The third option would be a design that allows the screen to be folded in any direction, with or without the S Pen accessory caught in the middle.
The patent also mentions two front cameras positioned on the central area of the screen, each with its own perforation. Also below the screen we find the fingerprint sensor, possibly the audio speaker, implemented by Samsung using a piezoelectric inductor that vibrates directly on the screen surface.
Accessible only with the enlarged screen, the main camera remains on the back of the case and will be constrained to a bump-free design, which could involve some compromises on the image quality and capture modes available.
Unfortunately, the fact that it is such an ambitious device probably reduces the chances that Samsung will ever launch it in the presented form. However, some of the concepts illustrated could appear on commercial devices already in operation, and we will find out about them at the right time.
Robert J. Smith is still early into his career as tech reporter but has already had his work published in many major publications including JoyStiq and Android Authority. In regards to academics, Robert earned a degree in business from Fordham University. Robert has passion for emerging technology and covers upcoming products and breakthroughs in science and tech.