One of MWC 2019’s defining motifs is bound to be flexible displays, with companies launching foldable devices featuring the technology in the lead-up, and others expected to demonstrate real or concept devices at the show. TCL, known in Australia for their television products, has opened up about some of the technology, concepts and design challenges they face in bringing the technology to market.
TCL’s flexible display technology is coming from their sister company CSOT. They’ve not said much about it while developing the technology, and they’re not ready to show actual devices yet but are showing off some concept devices to MWC 2019 attendees.
Besides the flexible screen technology, one of the most important components of a foldable device is the hinge technology that actually allows the screen to bend around the edges of the device while still providing a rigid structure and housing components inside the device.
Enter The DragonHinge
TCL’s solution for this is called DragonHinge, and like other manufacturers it’s providing a durable mechanical housing for the device’s internal componentry, allowing effortless and seamless movement so that TCL is free to develop their flexible and foldable device concepts into the future.
Those concept devices will be on display at TCL’s stand at MWC, and we’ll be checking them out once the show floor opens on Monday morning Barcelona time.
TCL says its not interested in the race to be first in the space – they are happy to pace themselves and deliver a expecting their device to come to market in 2020, after spending time to perfect their display and hinge technology and working with software partners to ensure the best user experience.
We’ve previously heard that Google is working on supporting foldable devices natively in Android – whether this ends up going into Android Q or Android R is unknown.
Those concept devices will be on display at TCL’s stand at MWC, and we’ll be checking them out once the show floor opens on Monday morning Barcelona time.