The foldable smartphone segment is still in its infancy stage with a few tech giants slowly jumping in the bandwagon. Huawei, Samsung, And Motorola already released their foldable smartphones, and it appears that the list for tech companies interested to produce their respective versions is increasing. However, a new report reveals that TCL is not interested in developing a foldable phone, but is currently working on an expandable smartphone that doubles as a tablet because of its expanding display.
TCL Expandable Smartphone Leaked Images
A new set of images showing a TCL expandable smartphone prototype surfaced online courtesy of CNET. The name of the device is still unknown, and since we only have leaked images, it is still a wonder how this TCL expandable smartphone works. But, one thing's for sure, the leaked images are promising take on the world of expandable smartphones and devices.
The leaked TCL expandable smartphone shows a smartphone with a display that seems to stretch continuously from edge to edge. The screens have curved sides, and there appears to be a couple of front-facing cameras on the right side. Between the middle and the front-facing camera is a break in the chassis that allows users to pull the sides apart to reveal the surplus display.
Since these are just images, we have no idea about the technology behind TCL expandable smartphone or on how it hides and unrolls the excess screen. But, it is possible that the display wraps behind the other, which could give the smartphone a thicker form factor. Meanwhile, the back part of the TCL expandable smartphone would bear sturdy support for the display.
Other Details
The right side of the extended display is a little bit thinner than that of the left. Based on the leaked images of the TCL expandable smartphone, it seems that the phone would be half empty when the device expands. The housing has to allow the screen to fit when it is in its compact mode.
What makes the TCL expandable smartphone intriguing is that its design allows the smartphone to transform into a tablet into its expanded form. Also, unlike the foldable smartphones, it does not have the same complication of bending aside from the issue with the crease. A promising design like this could provide for a single and efficient battery.
At this point, we do not know when the company plans to unveil the TCL expandable smartphone. Its initial plan to officially reveal it at the Mobile World Congress is no longer possible since GSMA already announced that this year's trade event is no longer happening.
