The images accompanying the WIPO listing show a fairly regular-looking smartphone. However, as we look at all the images included in the filing, it’s clear that the screen extends itself horizontally, all the way to the middle of the rear panel (via MySmartPrice). We have seen similar patents from other manufacturers before, but this seems to take a different approach to conventional slidable or rollable screens. The device appears to have a camera as well. One of the illustrations shows how this movable screen could allow users to take selfies with the rear camera.
Samsung took the wraps off the Flex Slidable display at CES 2022
Samsung demoed its Flex Slidable display at CES 2022, which is a more practical concept. Unlike the latest filing by the Korean manufacturer, the Flex Slidable display appears completely normal until it slides out horizontally. This tech is also likely to be more durable in the long run in comparison to rollable screens that wrap around the rear panel. The new WIPO filing is hardly surprising given Samsung’s stature as one of the giants of the display industry. The company has already acknowledged that foldables are the future. This explains why it is actively developing new display technologies.
OPPO is likely to reveal two foldables and a rollable display phone this year
Chinese smartphone giant OPPO isn’t too far behind on innovative display ideas either. The OPPO X 2021 prototype, for example, looks quite similar to Samsung’s Flex Slidable. According to recent leaks, OPPO plans to unveil two foldable phones and a rollable smartphone in 2022. Reports claim the foldable has surpassed all initial expectations for the company. We reviewed the Find N and were highly impressed with its performance. So launching two more foldables does seem logical from that perspective. These factors could mean that the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4/Z Fold 4 could face more competition than their predecessors.
