HomeWinBuzzer NewsSurface Phone Re-emerges in Patent for Smartphone/Tablet Hybrid

Surface Phone Re-emerges in Patent for Smartphone/Tablet Hybrid

A new Microsoft patent shows how the Surface Phone will have a continuous flexible screen that could redefine mobile hardware.

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Last week, launched several new Surface devices. Now that another hardware event has been and gone, it is safe to restart the rumors. Yes, the device that was coming this year but then killed off, is now back again. The latest Microsoft patent suggests the Surface Phone is still in development.

A patent published this week and filed on 21st July 2017 shows an improved version of Microsoft's dual folding screen concept. However, this time it seems the Surface Phone will have a flexible display as opposed to a hinged double screen.

The company describes a “deployable bridge support” that will keep the device rigid when the display is opened.

“The example can also include a flexible display positioned over the first portion, the hinge assembly, and the second portion. The example can further include a that is deployed to support the flexible display at the hinge assembly when the first and second portions are rotated from a closed orientation to an open orientation.”

We have often speculated about what would really set the Surface Phone apart. Two screens are a nice idea, but is it a gimmick? This patent may answer some of those questions. When opened, the screen would be 10 inches, and 5.5-inch when folded.

This means it would be a smartphone when closed and a tablet when open. Microsoft has often discussed blurring the lines between PC power and mobile simplicity. The Surface Phone could be the device to bridge the gap.

Surface Phone is Real

Earlier this month, we reported on Surface chief Panos Panay seemingly confirming the Surface Phone. the Microsoft executive said about the Surface Phone, “it's absolutely my baby”. What's interesting about this is Microsoft has never outright confirmed it is working on the Surface Phone.

So, this is hugely important because not only is this a confirmation, but it comes from the head of the Surface division.

Last Updated on April 9, 2020 11:16 am CEST by Luke Jones

Luke Jones
Luke Jones
Luke has been writing about all things tech for more than five years. He is following Microsoft closely to bring you the latest news about Windows, Office, Azure, Skype, HoloLens and all the rest of their products.

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