Samsung Display, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics that makes screens, is showing off a new prototype display and hinge at CES 2023. According to The Verge, Samsung Display showed off a “Flex In & Out” display that can rotate 360 degrees, meaning it supports inward and outward folding.
In addition, the display features a different hinge design, which is said to create a less visible fold. This is because the ‘teardrop hinge’ allows the display to form a looser shape when folded inwards – like a teardrop – and this more subtle hinge will also put less strain on the display.
This isn’t the first time Samsung Display has shown off a “Flex In & Out” prototype that embraces a folding all-around design. In 2021, a ‘Flex In & Out’ display was reportedly unveiled at the International Information Display Conference (IMID) in Korea. However, the approach is different, with the display folding like an ‘S’ and splitting into multiple parts. As of August 2022, when the Galaxy Z Fold 4 is released, the Samsung Fold series is still using an inward-folding display.
However, it is possible that the new screen will appear in the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 device. Rumors suggest that the device may have less visible folds thanks to a similar hinge design.
This design would address the ‘U’ shaped hinge that some users thought was flawed on the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4, which also had prominent creases. Rivals have already introduced a waterdrop hinge, creating a design with fewer creases.
