The South Korean manufacturer Samsung is reportedly currently developing a tablet with a foldable screen in XXL format. According to the latest industry rumors, this unprecedented mobile device would have a footprint of about 8" when folded, transforming into a large 17" touch monitor once fully unfolded. An anticipated technical response to the future hybrid devices of the competition?
Specialist in foldable displays, the Korean giant is reportedly testing a new type of tablet. According to Korean leaker @kro_roe on X, Samsung has in fact started developing a device with a reasonable diagonal of 8", but capable of unfolding to reach a more than respectable size of 17" once opened.
An XXL prototype in development at Samsung
Development of this device would have started after the company tested several versions. A specialist, and even a leader, in foldable displays, Samsung has already presented the wildest concepts at various trade shows in recent years, lending credibility to this rumor.
What design for the flexible display?
It should be noted, however, that such a concept raises an engineering question: how does the folded version work? Two options are possible. Either the large screen folds outward, thus giving a folded device with half the screen on one side and the other half on the opposite side. Or the large screen folds onto itself, then requiring an additional screen for the folded version, in the manner of current foldable smartphones.
The shadow of Apple over the foldable market
Each version has its advantages and disadvantages, with increased vulnerability for the first, and an additional cost for the second. It remains to be seen which one Samsung will settle on, and above all whether such a tablet will make it past the prototype stage to reach users’ hands. Let us also recall that Apple would also be developing a similar device.
Availability and indicative price are still unknown, as this product has not been the subject of any official announcement.
