Apple has filed a patent for a device with a rollable or scrollable display, suggesting that future products such as iPhone, iPad, televisions, desktop displays, and vehicle dashboards could feature this innovation. The US Patent & Trademark Office recently published the patent application, which continues Apple’s exploration of expandable displays that began in 2014.

Apple Explores Rollable Displays

The invention refers to a device with a display that can shift between a rolled-up state for storage and an unrolled state for viewing. In the unrolled state, the display would be planar, while in the rolled state, it would bend around an axis onto a roller for storage. The display could have a pixel array for image production and a transparent protective layer, which may include a layer of locally thinned glass to aid bending.

The outward-facing surface of the protective layer would bear potential exposure to objects causing scratches. However, the inward-facing surface would be protected and likely have fewer surface irregularities. Apple plans to prevent glass layer cracking by configuring the display to roll such that the outward-facing surface receives compressive stress. This would help prevent any scratches from causing damage to the display when rolled.

Several companies, like LG, OPPO, and Motorola, have already been actively exploring the rollable sector. LG has produced multiple purchasable rollable TVs and had also announced plans for a rollable phone. Although LG’s rollable phone never reached the market, a video leak suggests that the concept phone was actually real featuring a motorized screen extension.

Motorola, on the other hand, showcased its rollable concept phone, the Moto Rizr, at the Mobile World Congress. The device boasts a 5-inch display, expandable to 6.5 inches, that can adjust to apps automatically for a more immersive experience. However, the phone is still a concept and is yet to hit the consumer market. Xiaomi also patented smartphones with rollable display a few months back.

The patent filing by Apple does not necessarily mean that a rollable iPhone is imminent. The company might apply the rollable display technology to other products as well. Although the rollable screen products might be far from now but according to rumors Apple is actually working on a foldable MacBook which is expected to launch in 2026.

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