The foldable smartphone market is evolving rapidly, with nearly every major tech company entering the space. Now, Vivo has introduced an innovative concept that could significantly reshape the future of foldable devices. A recent patent filed in China reveals Vivo’s unique approach: a foldable device featuring a detachable second screen, which comes with its own internal hardware.
Unlike traditional foldable phones that are single, unified units, Vivo’s design is modular. This means the second screen can function independently or be used alongside the main screen, offering users enhanced flexibility and control.
Vivo’s Revolutionary Foldable Design: A Dual-Screen Setup
The patented design includes two distinct screens — the primary display and a detachable secondary screen. These components connect using magnets and communicate via contact points located along their edges.
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Impressively, the second screen can operate on its own, displaying visuals, playing audio, and performing tasks without being attached to the main unit. It can also receive data from the main device or an external controller. When connected, the main screen can manage the second one and share features such as power or content, enabling both displays to be active simultaneously — a notable advancement over current foldable models.
This setup offers multiple use cases: during presentations, the second screen could display slides; for gaming, it might show maps or stats; and for movies, it could handle subtitles or sound controls.
However, the design is not without potential drawbacks. A detachable screen poses the risk of being lost or misplaced, potentially rendering the device incomplete. Additionally, if the concept is applied to a phone, the gap created by separating the two parts could affect usability — leading some experts to believe that Vivo might be planning a modular tablet instead of a smartphone.
Regardless of how the concept evolves, Vivo’s patent showcases bold innovation in the foldable tech space. If successfully developed, it could pave the way for a new generation of modular smart devices.
