Microsoft patents Galaxy Flip-like device with foldable display and 360-degree hinge

Microsoft's Surface Duo, a dual-screen smartphone with a 360° hinge, has struggled to gain traction among consumers despite its innovative design. The device can adapt to a variety of usage modes, including book, tent, composition and single screen, and has been praised for its thin and lightweight design and revolutionary hinge.

However, the Surface Duo has been criticized for its unreliable custom software running on Android, lack of support for third-party apps, and poor usability as a regular smartphone. These factors hampered the device's ability to win over consumers.

Rumors in the past suggested that Microsoft was developing a next-generation Surface Duo device that would feature a flexible display similar to the Samsung Galaxy Fold. These rumors are fueled by reports of a Microsoft patent describing a flexible display device with a hinge.

#Recently, a new Microsoft patent titled "Hinged Device with Flexible Display" was published in the United States. The new patent describes a foldable device similar to the Samsung Galaxy Flip, with a hinge that can rotate 360 ​​degrees.

• The device has two main parts connected by a "spine". A flexible display spans this spine and is connected to both parts.
• When the device is closed, the monitor stand moves away from the surface, allowing the flexible monitor to flex without damage.
• When the device is open, the spine supports the flexible display to prevent it from bending too much when touched.
• Some designs allow the two main components to move relative to the spine to reduce stress on flexible displays. This movement creates a gap between the part and the spine.
• To bridge these gaps, a rotating spine cover is used. These covers allow access to the main components while rotating.
• When the device is opened, the monitor bracket near the spine moves toward the flexible monitor, providing additional support. This helps maintain an even feel across the entire display and reduces the chance of damage when using the stylus.
• Additionally, this new device design will allow the foldable device to rotate beyond 180 degrees and even up to 360 degrees.

Essentially, this design allows for a durable and user-friendly flexible display on the device. It ensures the monitor can bend without damage, provides support when needed, and maintains a smooth and consistent feel for the user.

This patent for a new device design with a flexible display and 360-degree hinge points to a potential leap forward. This design is designed to improve durability and user experience by allowing the display to flex without damage, providing necessary support and ensuring an even feel throughout the display. If successfully implemented, this could address current criticisms of the Surface Duo and revolutionize the use of flexible displays in devices. With these advancements coming, the future of dual-screen smartphones from Microsoft does look promising.

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