LG is poised to return to the smartphone market after a long hiatus. The South Korean electronics giant recently filed for a patent for a rollable mobile phone, indicating its intention to re-enter the field it exited in April 2021. Over the past decade, LG has been recognized as one of the world’s leading mobile phone manufacturers. Innovative design and technology. However, changing market dynamics and decreasing demand for mobile devices eventually led the company to shut down its mobile division.
Patent application
Currently, LG is focusing on its core competency in consumer electronics, producing everything from smartphone displays and camera sensors to smart TVs. Recent patent applications for rollable and foldable mobile phones mark a strategic return to mobile technology. This move suggests that LG is not only interested in exploring new designs, but also preparing to re-establish its presence in the competitive smartphone industry that has evolved since its exit.
competitive environment
LG’s return could also affect rival Samsung, challenging its position as a dominant player in the foldable smartphone market. Samsung has solidified its position as a leader, boasting a robust portfolio of foldable devices including the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models, with significant demand and market share globally. LG’s entry could intensify competition in the sector as the company looks to leverage its engineering expertise and innovative capabilities.
Initiatives so far
This isn’t the first time LG has explored rollable phone technology. The company previously filed a patent for a similar concept and also released a prototype. However, that project was ultimately shelved. In 2022, LG showcased a rollable device named Mini Tab with a display that expands from 6.8 inches to 7.4 inches. The device was powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 flagship 5G processor and boasted a 4,500 mAh battery and 12 GB of RAM. Despite this innovation, LG did not commercially launch this device, which highlighted the challenges the company faces in the mobile market.
Insights from new patents
The latest patent, filed in October 2023, incorporates several advances in OLED display technology. In particular, it introduces the use of magnetic tools designed to enhance the functionality of rollable displays. This innovative technology includes a magnetic sheet placed behind the display and aims to minimize the visibility of lines that can occur when extending or retracting the device. I am. The magnetic feature is designed to smoothly return the display to its original position, improving the user experience.
As of now, LG has not released any official statement regarding its eventual return to the smartphone market, leaving many technology enthusiasts and industry analysts looking forward to LG’s next move. The evolving mobile technology landscape could play a key role in shaping the future of LG’s smartphone ambitions.
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