Samsung currently has several foldable smartphones, such as the Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold 2 which are both 5G models. Presently, all foldable phones in the market have one thing in common – they can fold once. Nevertheless, it is obvious that smartphones will eventually also be introduced with a flexible display that can be folded twice. A good example of this was already shown at the beginning of last year when Xiaomi demonstrated its first foldable smartphone. Well, the company is yet to launch this smartphone anyway.
According to recent information, Samsung is also working on such models. For example, there were reports of the Galaxy Z Dual Fold smartphone recently. This model comes with a lower display that also acts as a virtual keyboard. Newly found documentation shows that Samsung is also considering developing a foldable smartphone with a slide-out keyboard, for convenience we call this device the Galaxy Z Fold 3.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold with a dual-hinge and three-screen parts
When this smartphone folds, it is remarkably slim. According to the patent, the display can fold twice using the dual hinge. Thus, the flexible display consists of three equal display parts. When it folds, you have a narrow, compact phone, while unfolded you have a tablet-sized display.
Part of the screen can always be used, even when folded. Notifications and incoming messages and calls can be displayed on this. This screen part is also large enough to be able to reply directly to a WhatsApp message. You can also use it to browse through your phone book to find a contact.
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Because part of the screen always remains visible – even when you carry the phone with you on the go – the risk of screen damage is greater. Although Samsung uses UTG (Ultra-Thin Glass) for the Z Fold and Z Flip, the screen protector placed over it is significantly less scratch-resistant. Hopefully, a solid solution will be sought for this before Samsung decides to release a folding phone with a (partially) outwardly folding display.
The applied hinge ensures that you can close the phone completely, without visible seams. This makes this phone extremely compact to carry with you. It also reduces the chance that dust particles and dirt can enter the hinges. Of course, we know it has a negative effect on the operation of the device.
Samsung may be able to integrate the unique ‘sweeper technology’ that made its debut in the Galaxy Z Fold 2’s hideaway hinge. Thanks to the double hinge, multiple folding positions are also possible. This allows users to set up and use the phone in different ways. The user interface will change automatically depending on how you start using the device
Samsung foldable smartphone with sliding keyboard
To further enhance the user experience and possibilities, this Samsung foldable smartphone is equipped with a keyboard. It is a sliding keyboard that can be slid out of the housing. The keyboard is the same size as one display part.
Because it is a sliding keyboard, you can continue to use it, regardless of how the device is folded. This way you can even use the keyboard when using the phone is in its most compact form. Probably some kind of locking mechanism will be built in, which prevents the keyboard and / or the phone from unintentionally unfolded.