In the Q1 of 2019, Samsung launched its first foldable smartphone which, as we all know, is called the Galaxy Fold. Even though its commericial availability was delayed a couple of times due to display issues, it is still a remarkable device and Samsung is bound to be working on its successor. After all, this is one of the most distinguishing form factors the smartphone industry has seen in the last decade.
On August 29, 2019, Samsung was granted a patent by the WIPO (World Intellectual Property Office) for a foldable smartphone which supposedly corresponds to the second generation Galaxy Fold. Similar to the original handset, the illustrated device in the patent has two displays, out of which, the smaller display is mounted on the cover while the second foldable display is revealed when the device in it unfolded state.
The special thing about this foldable smartphone is its camera system. The device is designed in such a way that the camera sensor present on the inside can also double up as the selfie camera. While the bezel present above the outer display does not have a cutout to allow the inner camera to see through, it incorpoates several lenses that allow the device to achieve the desired functionality. The image shared below with arrows will help to better understand its working.
To put it in simple words, Samsung is trying to establish a thoughtful design which would allow its upcoming foldable phone to reduce the number of camera sensors whilst unaffecting its functionality. To recall, the original Galaxy Fold has a total of 6 camera sensors and these sensors don’t come cheap. Clearly, this will allow Samsung to reduce the cost of its future foldable devices as the cost saved by eleminating redundant camera sensors can be passed on to consumers which would make the device more enticing.
Taking this implementation a step further, the patent also talks about the possiblity of an under-display camera rather than one embedded in the bezel above the display. While a handful of companies including Xiaomi and Oppo have showcased a handset (1, 2) with selfie-camera concealed under the display, not much can be said about the image quality such devices can produce.
Editor’s Pick: Huawei camera lens supplier claims supply is tightening as demand increases
For now, a foldable Samsung smartphone with under-display camera sensor present on the inside that would double up as selfie camera with the help of see through lenses seems like a farfetched concept. Nonetheless, the first concept with camera mounted in the bezel seems attainable. Samsung is expected to showcase its second foldable handset early next year. Therefore, we will have to wait patienlty to see if, such a feature makes it way to upcoming foldable devices from the company.
What are your thoughts on Samsung’s visionary approach to develop a foldable handset which has been made affordable with the help of clever implementation. Let us know in the comments below?
(source)
UP NEXT: Red Magic 3S with 90Hz screen, SD855+, 12GB RAM and 5,000mAh battery debuts for Rs. 35,999 (~$673) in India
