Samsung has recently filed trademark registrations for the names "Flex Magic" and "Flex Magic Pixel" in South Korea, and these trademarks have now appeared on the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) website. The trademarks come with a brief description, confirming that they are related to OLED displays for smartphones, AR devices, and other large display appliances.
Samsung "Flex Magic" and "Flex Magic Pixel" Patents on EUIPO
In addition to the patent names, Samsung has also applied for logo trademarks that depict the text "Flex Magic Pixel" and a square object in the center. Another patent features the text "Flex Magic" along with a similar object in the center.
These patents seem to be related to OLED display panels for various devices such as video monitors, televisions, smartphones, wearables, smart glasses, reality glasses, and tablet monitors. Of particular note is the labeling of the technology as an "expandable screen for smartphones" and "smartphones in the shape of a watch." Based on this description, it appears that we are getting closer to the widespread availability of expandable display technology.
Previous Demonstrations and Future Possibilities
We have already seen glimpses of Samsung's efforts in the field of expandable displays. Last year, during the SID 2022 Display Week held in San Jose, California, USA, a device called the Flex Note was showcased. Additionally, at CES 2023, Samsung showcased a concept for a Flex Gaming handheld device with a folding screen and a controller peripheral.
The appearance of the Flex Magic Pixel and Flex Magic trademarks on the EUIPO and South Korea's Certification Agency further solidifies the notion that Samsung has something special in store for expandable displays in 2024. While AR products are already in the pipeline, it seems that a new smartphone with an expandable display could become a reality.
Potential Impact on Electronic Devices
The introduction of expandable displays could have a significant impact on various electronic devices, potentially changing their standard form factors. This evolution could be particularly transformative for smartphones.
Below are the full descriptions of the "Flex Magic" and "Flex Magic Pixel" patents as provided by Samsung:
Flex Magic Patent Description:
- LCD large-screen displays
- Light emitting diode displays
- OLED display panels
- Digital signage
- Display screens for digital cameras
- Video monitors
- Smartphones
- Wearable video display monitors
- Cameras
- Computer display monitors
- Televisions
- Tablet monitors
- Notebook computers
- Head-up display apparatus for vehicles
- 3D spectacles
- Virtual reality headsets
- Smart glasses
- Smartphones in the shape of a watch
- Expandable screen smartphones
- Devices for the projection of virtual keyboards
- Head-mounted video displays
Flex Magic Pixel Patent Description:
- LCD large-screen displays
- Light emitting diode displays
- OLED display panels
- Digital signage
- Display screens for digital cameras
- Video monitors
- Display for smart phones
- Wearable video display monitors
- Cameras
- Computer display monitors
- Televisions
- Tablet monitors
- Head-up display apparatus for vehicles
- 3D spectacles
- Virtual reality headsets
- Smart glasses
- Devices for the projection of virtual keyboards
- Head-mounted video displays
In conclusion, Samsung's trademark registrations for "Flex Magic" and "Flex Magic Pixel" indicate the company's focus on expandable display technology. With various demonstrations and the appearance of these trademarks, it seems that we can expect exciting developments in the realm of expandable displays in the near future.