The first tri-foldable smartphone in the world, measuring 7.85 inches, was exhibited by TCL at the 2024 Society for Information Display (SID) show.
Different folding patterns are possible with TCL’s self-developed “free-type” screen, which allows “G-shaped” and “Z-shaped” folding configurations.
Users can have a unique and varied experience with the tri-foldable screen when it is entirely flattened, roughly approximating the current standard tablet display ratio.
A blend of compactness and advanced technology
Multiple low-power technologies, including Tandem, LTPO, and PLP, are incorporated into the tri-foldable screen to provide great brightness while guaranteeing low power consumption and extended life.
At 472 microns, or less than 0.5mm, thick, it has a very thin profile.
Because the smartphone’s total thickness is limited to 17 mm, consumers can choose a small and portable device.
By allowing an unhindered view of the huge screen, the incredibly thin bezel design further improves the user experience.
The under-screen face ID tech uses SUP design
Additionally, the smartphone has an under-screen face authentication configuration that maximises screen uniformity by using a Sensor Under Panel (SUP) design to enable safe and seamless 3D biometric authentication without the need for slots or holes.
With a 420ppi pixel density, both the standard display area (AA area) and the under-screen display (SUP area) guarantee consistent screen display across the board.
The display supports an adaptive refresh rate
Utilising TCL CSOT’s LTPO technology, the tri-foldable screen has an adaptable refresh rate that spans between 1 and 120 Hz.
This technology makes the user interface (UI) smoother and more responsive, which makes it perfect for graphics-intensive applications like gaming and video streaming.
There’s also a reduced power usage mode on the display.
While TCL has displayed its newest gadget at the event, it is currently unclear what the company intends to do with a tri-foldable phone in the future.