LG Rumored to be Developing Transparent, Foldable Touchscreen

Along with Samsung and HTC, LG is one of the world’s biggest manufacturers of smartphones. Its signature “G” series have become a fan-favorite among mobile users. But LG is looking to push the envelope even further, as new reports indicate that it could be working on a new transparent, foldable touchscreen interface.

The company’s upcoming LG G6 flagship smartphone will not feature a curved screen like some reports had previously indicated. Curved screens have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many smartphones featuring them. They are touted as providing clearer, higher-quality images, which as made them an attractive choice among mobile users. However, several companies have also been working on foldable displays. A foldable display would essentially follow in the footsteps of a curbed display, only to a greater degree. It would literally fold, allowing the user to transform his or her device into a smaller, possibly different shape.

A foldable display may sound like science-fiction, but Samsung and Lenovo are already working on the technology — and another company may soon jump on board: LG. Several reports have appeared in recent months, indicating that LG has filed a patent for a foldable, transparent touchscreen interface. Of course, this isn’t the first time LG has expressed interest in a foldable display. The company’s LG G Flex 2 was its first attempt to produce a workable device with a folding touchscreen display. Unfortunately, the G Flex 2 failed to take off, due largely in part to design flaws. Perhaps LG is looking to redeem itself by developing a new, better quality foldable touchscreen display.

So, what exactly does LG reveal in its recently filed patent? The patent is based on the company’s previous foldable touchscreen display design, but it has several new enhancements and improvements. According to the patent, the display is large and foldable, with the ability to fold from both sides. It also has a transparent display, allowing users to see through it.

From the patent alone, there’s not much else revealed about LG’s bold new idea. The patent shows what looks like a book featuring touchscreen controls. The actual controls are placed one side, while the opposite side is the display. And we assume the display is transparent since the mockup drawing reveals a faded hand. LG has not confirmed the development of its foldable, transparent touchscreen device. That doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t happen, though.

What do you think of a transparent, foldable touchscreen interface?