A newly surfaced patent from Samsung offers a glimpse into a potential new flip-style foldable device featuring a unique 360-degree hinge. Filing details were discovered in the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) database, accompanied by technical sketches of the concept.
Distinct from current market offerings, this design appears to eliminate the need for a separate cover display. The sketches illustrate a flexible screen capable of folding both inward and outward, effectively wrapping around the rear of the device.
Realizing this form factor would necessitate a highly sophisticated hinge mechanism to support bidirectional bending. It is important to note that patent filings do not always translate into commercial products.
Visual evidence suggests the hinge is offset from the center, leaving a portion of the device's bottom section exposed. This design choice allows the screen to remain partially visible even when folded inward. Additionally, the schematics hint at a camera cutout positioned on what would function as the back panel.
Samsung typically showcases its latest display innovations at major industry events, raising the possibility that a prototype based on this design could be demonstrated in the future.