Samsung’s latest design innovations have stirred my curiosity about foldable phones, pushing me to consider giving them a try. Initially, when foldables hit the market, they lacked the refinement present in traditional smartphones. This trend continues, resulting in revised sales expectations for models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Fold 7. However, manufacturers appear to be working on innovative solutions that could change the game.
One such innovation is Samsung’s concept of a rollable smartphone, inspired by recent patent illustrations. While this render may not reflect an actual final product, the technology showcased in previous prototypes, like the Oppo X 2021, demonstrates the feasibility of such devices. A rollable smartphone promises to expand screen space without the drawbacks associated with foldables. Unlike foldable phones that hinge open and closed, rollable devices can be extended or “stretched” to the desired size.
This offers users an adjustable display that maintains a uniform look, eliminating the visible creases characteristic of current foldable phones. My discontent with foldables stems primarily from the crease, which disrupts an otherwise seamless screen experience. In contrast, the Oppo prototype showcased a device that retained a standard appearance even when resized, making it more appealing for everyday use. As for the timeline on when we might see a rollable phone, optimism ranges widely.
Some speculate Samsung may reveal a rollable device this year, but it seems more focused on its tri-foldable offerings and the upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge. Personally, a rollable phone would ignite my interest in expanding my phone options, reviving fond memories of classic flip phones. If a major player like Samsung introduces a rollable model before Apple launches its anticipated foldable iPhone in 2027, it would certainly shake up the smartphone market.