14 DAY TRIAL // Foldable and flexible displays are the new big thing in mobile, and like the rest of the manufacturers, Apple is also exploring ways to bring such tech to its devices.
However, Cupertino isn’t just thinking of using foldable screens on smartphones, but also on the Apple Watch. And a recently-discovered patent provides us with an idea as to how Apple imagines foldable displays would be used on a smartwatch.
Probably the most innovative approach is one version where the display area would extend to cover the band, technically increasing the available screen estate.
“A display module and system applications including a display module are described. The display module may include a display substrate including a front surface, a back surface, and a display area on the front surface,” the patent’s description reads.
“A plurality of interconnects extend through the display substrate from the front surface to the back surface. An array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are in the display area and electrically connected with the plurality of interconnects, and one or more driver circuits are on the back surface of the display substrate. Exemplary system applications include wearable, rollable, and foldable displays.”
Just a patent for now
While this is really an exciting idea, don’t hold your breath for Apple to release such a device. Patents typically envision all kinds of new tech that never make it to the market simply because they’re much harder to implement than initially thought or just because the market isn’t ready for it.
Apple, on the other hand, is expected to stick with the current Apple Watch design for at least several more generations, with the focus now switched to activity tracking and health monitoring.
An upgrade to the Apple Watch is expected in the fall when Apple will also take the wraps off the new-generation Apple Watch.
Via FoldableNews