Detachable camera modules in smartphones appears to be an emerging trends in recent patent filings from multiple companies. Now, TCL has joined the bandwagon as well, with a smartphone with a detachable dual camera module that can be used as a rear and front facing shooter.
According to a LetsGoDigital report, the Chinese electronics brand filed a design patent with the CNIPA (China National Intellectual Property Administration). The news as other brands like Xiaomi, Vivo, and Samsung also patenting detachable camera modules. Looking at the patent images from TCL, the device resembles a modern day handset with a dual camera module on the back. Although, this module can be detached from the main housing.
Notably, after detaching the camera, there is also a way to mount the module on to the side of the smartphone. Users can mount the module on the side thanks to two small connectors, which would allow one to take high resolution selfie shots as the camera module now faces the front. This would be especially useful for great shots as the dual camera system might also include a wide angle lens and the higher resolution might help with online video conferences as well.
As of right now, it is unknown if the detachable camera module can be used without being attached to the smartphone. To achieve this, it would have to have its own small power source and a communications module, which the patent does not describe. Furthermore, its still unknown if the company is actually working on such a product or covering all bases.
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