Motorola has received a new patent from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) for a flip phone design. The global patent shows sketches of a design concept that uses an outward-folding display instead of the inward-folding design Motorola previously offered with the Razr. The new design details what the smartphone will look like and seems to include more concepts for using the foldable display panel.
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According to the patent application, the foldable phone will have a flexible display on the outside of the phone, rather than the usual inward-folding design. The external display when folded means users will get a display on both the front and back of the phone. This will likely be complemented by some software feature that offers a functioning smartphone interface with unique front and back features. For example, while the front of a folded phone can work as a normal folded smartphone mockup, the back can work as a viewfinder for the rear camera.
Speaking of the rear camera, it looks like it’s stored in a ledge that will likely house the camera, as well as other relevant sensors. The design also showcases the concept where a single camera module will serve as both the front and rear cameras – when folded, it can take pictures from the back and take unfolded selfies.
The folding hinge also features a U-shaped curvature and a gap between the fold hinge, which is similar to what Oppo recently showed off with the Oppo Find N foldable phone. With the latest, Oppo showed off a design where the flex display has a smoother curvature to ensure there are no visible creases. in the long run.
So far, Motorola has tried to revive its iconic Moto Razr style with an inward-folding display and Android interface. However, the lack of durability and high price meant that the latter was not a commercial success. It’s unclear if Motorola will release a foldable smartphone, but the patent concept looks interesting to say the least.