Microsoft may be gearing up to launch a revolutionary new type of foldable device, as a patent filed back in 2021 has recently come to light. While patents don’t always guarantee a product’s release, they provide a glimpse into the exciting directions companies are exploring. In this instance, Microsoft’s patent sheds light on a device with a unique 360-degree folding capability.
The 38-page patent document, unveiled on October 1, 2024, describes a device that can seamlessly morph into a tablet, laptop, or even other computing forms. The key to its flexibility lies in its innovative design: a combination of a rear cover, a glass layer, and a light-emitting layer. Notably, strategically placed slots between the cover glass layer and backplate allow the device to bend effortlessly, creating a smooth transition between each rotation.
Microsoft emphasizes the device’s ability to bend without creases, even when folded to its full 360 degrees. This remarkable feat is achieved through a meticulous process of wet etching and laser modification, ensuring a seamless transformation between 0, 180, 300, and 360-degree rotations.
This patent offers a tantalizing peek into Microsoft’s future endeavors, hinting at a potential game-changer in the world of foldable devices. The company’s commitment to seamless, flexible design could redefine how we interact with technology.
