Samsung has not shied away from experimenting with foldable devices ever since the original Galaxy Z Fold hit shelves worldwide. We got to see several concept devices, including a tri-folding tablet on several occasions. Samsung wants to take it to another level by incorporating new design elements into a foldable device.
91mobiles has stumbled upon an interesting patent filing on the WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organisation) website. It showcases a foldable smartphone that can fold and slide at the same time. Interestingly enough, TCL already beat Samsung to the punch by demonstrating the Fold and Slide: a foldable phone that expands into a 10-inch tablet.
The WIPO filing showcases what looks like a regular device that folds along its central axis. Once unfolded, one side uses a gear mechanism to slide out to reveal an even larger screen. We've seen this mechanism in action earlier this year on the Oppo X 2021. The listing doesn't tell us anything else about the concept device, but more details should emerge about it as time passes.
As is the case with most patent filings, there's no telling when the device will hit shelves. It could be years before it reaches the prototype stage and several more before it is viable for mass production. OEMs like Samsung often sit on patents for extended time periods. However, we can rest easy knowing that at least one company has manufactured a similar device, so it shouldn't be very long before Samsung follows suit.
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