Microsoft has recently filed a patent for what it describes as a device with a flexible hinge and display that could transform a phone into a tablet. This could very well be one possible feature of the much anticipated Surface Phone from the Redmond-based tech giant.
Foldable phone patent by Microsoft. The patent further explains the technology of a flexible display attached to a foldable hinge. The structure housing the flexible hinge secures a number of other housings that allow them to rotate from each other. The flexible display appears to cover the main housing and the foldable hinge.
The inventor listed on the patent is one Kabir Siddique. Siddique was also listed on the patents for the kickstand and camera that are seen on Microsoft Surface devices today. Notes and images pulled from the patent show what looks to be a plus-sized smartphone that can unfold into a tablet. The images also detail the device as having the ability to sit up when folded into a tent much like Lenovo's Yoga tablets.
Although tech companies patent thousands of technologies that never end up in production, it is safe to assume that the company is looking into producing a device with this kind of feature in the future which could possibly be the much awaited Surface Phone. The latest patent further fuels speculations of the tech company's return to smartphones after the disappointing performance of its Windows Phone line. If this patent does end up onto a Microsoft device, tech aficionados could see an already high-performing mobile device that is able to transform into something greater.
A report from the Korean Herald claims that both Korean tech companies LG and Samsung are looking into launching their own flexible phones in the later part of this year. A third possible flexible Surface Phone from Microsoft is not that far from happening.
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