Samsung patented one smartphone with the display that scrolls in two directions: Galaxy Z Fold Dual Slide. The leaflet can be extended both vertically and horizontally, providing new ways of interacting.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold Dual Slide, with display that slides in two directions
The Korean company is investing heavily in the world of folding smartphones. And as reported Let’s Go Digital has patented a new and interesting form factor for the phones of the future. Galaxy Z Fold Dual Slide can extend the screen in due directions, both along the axis vertical than along that horizontal.
When closed it looks like a simple Galaxy Note. But you can extend it vertically, for example for extra controls while taking a photograph. Or horizontally to have more space to read or watch a video.
In the image filed in the patent you can see the mechanism that allows you to expand the space on the screen, using these secondary extensions. The vertical panel can for example serve for notifications or commands a full screen app. However, the horizontal one can also be used to have one better view when photographing objects, opening up more the field to be immortalized.
The idea sounds very interesting, although not necessarily easily practicable. A sliding display results much more delicate than a folding one. And the odd shape of the device would make it even more fragile, with the possibility of it breaking too frequently. Samsung may find ways to remedy these risks. But it is not certain that it is ready to invest to do so.
As is often the case with patents, the chances are high that it will end up in oblivion. But maybe instead Samsung might try to surprise us with a certainly unique device. What do you think about it? Would you buy a smartphone that slides in two directions?