Samsung is using the 2021 SID Display Week virtual exhibition to showcase its next-generation OLED technology used for folding and sliding devices.
As the video below demonstrates, Samsung is highlighting four different devices, all of which take advantage of OLED displays, but without any release dates attached. These are products for the future, or at least prototypes that will eventually become real products.
First we have the S-Foldable, which Samsung describes as a multi-foldable display. It folds out twice to offer a 7.2-inch display, but is no larger than a typical smartphone when folded up. An alternative method of offering a larger display in a smartphone-sized device is also teased in the form of the Slidable. The display automatically extends out to one side when desired, and certainly looks futuristic when you see it in action.
The largest folding device Samsung showcased is the 17-inch Foldable. Tablet-sized when folded shut, this devices opens flat to offer a 17-inch display with a 4:3 aspect ratio. It’s sure to be heavier and thicker than a typical non-folding tablet, but worth it for the huge screen on offer.
Finally, we have the most conventional, and therefore most likely to appear first new bit of tech. Samsung has managed to place a webcam underneath the OLED panel in a laptop. It means no more thick bezel at the top of the display, but still allowing the camera to remain in the most user-friendly position. The video also suggests this same Under Panel Camera is present in the 17-inch Foldable prototype, and I’d be surprised if Samsung didn’t try to use it on all new devices in future.
“Samsung has always strived to not just deliver vibrant and beautiful displays, but also products that provide a useful and practical experience,” said JSChoi, President and Chief Executive of the digital media division at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung Display will keep developing various self-luminous technologies including OLED, QD, and LED. It will take the lead in growing the market by providing display solutions in various sizes ranging 1-inch to 200-inch.”
