Samsung appears to be pushing the boundaries of foldable display technology with a newly discovered patent. The patent, filed under the number PCT/KR2024/010852 and published under WO 2025/063475, showcases a futuristic four-panel foldable device.
The patent drawings reveal an innovative multi-fold design, potentially allowing a single device to transition between a compact form factor and an expansive tablet-like display. Unlike conventional foldable devices that feature a single or dual-hinge mechanism, Samsung’s latest design incorporates three distinct folding sections, providing enhanced versatility and portability.
Key aspects observed in the patent illustrations include:
- Quad-Fold Design: The device consists of four interconnected panels, likely connected via multiple hinge mechanisms, enabling various folding configurations.
- Multi-Angle Hinge System: The presence of multiple hinge sections suggests that users might be able to fold and unfold the display in a variety of ways, offering different use cases such as a tent mode, a laptop-style mode, or a fully extended tablet mode.
- Seamless Integration: The technology behind the hinge and display alignment appears to minimize the creases commonly seen in current-generation foldables.
Potential Applications and Market Impact
If Samsung brings this concept to reality, it could redefine productivity and entertainment on portable devices. Such a device could be used for:
- Expansive multitasking with multiple apps running simultaneously on different panels.
- An immersive entertainment experience with a large, uninterrupted display.
- Enhanced productivity with the ability to split the display into different functional areas, similar to a dual-screen laptop.
Given Samsung’s leadership in the foldable smartphone market with its Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series, this patent signals the company’s commitment to staying ahead in the innovation race. While it’s still unclear when or if this concept will make it into production, its existence suggests that Samsung is actively exploring new form factors that could redefine the future of mobile technology.
As with any patent, there is no guarantee of commercialization, but given Samsung’s history of bringing foldable innovations to market, this design could be a glimpse into the next major evolution in mobile devices. Tech enthusiasts and industry watchers will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Samsung’s next moves in the foldable space.
