Will your next Smartphone be a foldable ?
In recent weeks, there have been patent filings from Microsoft and some rumor shots from Samsung regarding a potential new form factor for the smartphone - what I am calling the foldable.
These new devices utilize multiple screens, upwards of 3 - so a "top" screen, then a hinge with dual screens inside.
As anyone who has owned a smartphone in the last 10 years knows, one of the challenges is screen size. We started around 4", then grew to 5", then 6" and even 6.5".
The problem with the current slab format however is as the size of the screen increases, you run into both carrying and one handed operation issues. Plus folks really don't like holding some huge device up to their ears. At the same time they love the larger screen for readability and apps.
Foldable attempts to address that. You can now have an easy carry device with key notifications and phone capabilities on the "top" screen, then a larger format "workspace" for applications.
But is it practical ?
There are several key issues that will need to be addressed. First off will be thickness. The early photos & videos show a much thicker device than we currently see. Think about something approaching a deck of cards.
Second will be battery life. While the latest mobile CPUs are showing much improved battery life, it's powering up to 3 screens at once that could be a challenge. Now sure, not all 3 would be lit all the time, but a common use case is to be on the phone with someone while reviewing content from an app. Can the manufacturers support potentially powering multiple screens while still providing the all important all day battery life.
And that drives the 3rd challenge which is navigation. How will common tasks like SMS, Twitter, and Email be supported and will you be able to easily move the active app from one screen to another.
So obviously this is all in its most early stages - but at least 2 players are thinking about it. It will be interesting to see what content around this comes out at the MWC in Barcelona next month.
These new devices utilize multiple screens, upwards of 3 - so a "top" screen, then a hinge with dual screens inside.
As anyone who has owned a smartphone in the last 10 years knows, one of the challenges is screen size. We started around 4", then grew to 5", then 6" and even 6.5".
The problem with the current slab format however is as the size of the screen increases, you run into both carrying and one handed operation issues. Plus folks really don't like holding some huge device up to their ears. At the same time they love the larger screen for readability and apps.
Foldable attempts to address that. You can now have an easy carry device with key notifications and phone capabilities on the "top" screen, then a larger format "workspace" for applications.
But is it practical ?
There are several key issues that will need to be addressed. First off will be thickness. The early photos & videos show a much thicker device than we currently see. Think about something approaching a deck of cards.
Second will be battery life. While the latest mobile CPUs are showing much improved battery life, it's powering up to 3 screens at once that could be a challenge. Now sure, not all 3 would be lit all the time, but a common use case is to be on the phone with someone while reviewing content from an app. Can the manufacturers support potentially powering multiple screens while still providing the all important all day battery life.
And that drives the 3rd challenge which is navigation. How will common tasks like SMS, Twitter, and Email be supported and will you be able to easily move the active app from one screen to another.
So obviously this is all in its most early stages - but at least 2 players are thinking about it. It will be interesting to see what content around this comes out at the MWC in Barcelona next month.
Comments
Post a Comment