The announcement of LG’s withdrawal from the smartphone market triggered a wave of nostalgia among fans. Just when the company was on the verge of transforming mobile devices with innovative designs, it decided to close its smartphone division.
However, there’s a chance—albeit slim—that one of LG’s most ambitious creations might make a comeback. The company could potentially re-enter the smartphone arena with a rollable device.
An intriguing patent discovered by MSPowerUser reveals that LG’s display division has engineered a device featuring a “roll-slide” display mechanism. At its core is a flexible panel made from a substrate that incorporates plastic.
The choice of plastic isn’t unexpected; it offers the essential flexibility that these types of devices require. When foldable phones first entered the market, Samsung utilized plastic for their inner panels before transitioning to a hybrid material known as ultra-thin glass.
LG’s patent suggests a display capable of bending and rolling. Additionally, it includes a frame featuring a roller and guiding mechanism that permits the flexible display to extend and retract seamlessly.
Essentially, a series of magnetic sheets positioned within the multi-frame structure help prevent creases or wrinkles as the display operates. This design feature is crucial, as maintaining a smooth surface not only enhances aesthetics but also preserves the longevity of the display.
Interestingly, this patent doesn’t solely pertain to smartphones; it also hints at broader applications. The document states:
“The flexible display device can be easily carried and implement a large screen so that it may be applied to various fields, including mobile devices such as smartphones, e-readers, or digital newspapers, as well as TVs and monitors.”
Rollable technology is not just a concept confined to patents. LG previously demonstrated a working prototype of its rollable phone, while other companies like Oppo and TCL also showcased similar ideas but didn’t commercialize their devices.
So, does this patent indicate a possible comeback for LG in the smartphone sector? While it would be a significant challenge, it remains a possibility. This patent was filed on October 10 and falls under LG Display, a division that has previously supplied screens for major brands like Apple.
It’s feasible that LG’s display unit is preparing for evolutions in smartphone design. Should a brand decide to develop a rollable phone in the future, LG could position itself as a key provider for the necessary technology.
When might we actually see a rollable phone hit the market? There’s no definite timeline from any manufacturer at this point. Meanwhile, Huawei is exploring foldable technology further, venturing into tri-fold designs that unfold into sizable tablets.
If you’re curious about LG’s Rollable phone, be sure to check out the video above.
