Samsung Electronics Co is planning to soon release two new smartphone models that will feature bendable screens. People familiar with matter said one of the device will be able to fold in half like a cosmetic compact.
Both of the devices will use organic light-emitting diodes. It is expected to be unveiled in 2017.One of the model will have 5-inch screen when used as a handset, that unfurls into a display that's as large as 8 inches, similar to a tablet, the people said.
Samsung, the biggest supplier of OLED panels for mobile products, has pioneered the development of new screen formats with its multi-sided Edge smartphones. Using advanced display technology may help the company recapture customers from Apple and boost earnings that have slumped for the past two years.
"This product could be a game-changer if Samsung successfully comes up with a user interface suitable for bendable screens," said Lee Seung Woo, an analyst at IBK Securities Co in Seoul.
"Next year is a probable scenario. Their biggest obstacle was related to making transparent plastics and making them durable, which seems resolved by now."
Samsung has called this project as "Project Valley." Samsung may unveil one or both of the devices as soon as February, when Mobile World Congress takes place in Barcelona, as informed by company people.
"The company may also name the next version of its Note device as the "Note 7," skipping a number, to bring it in line with its flagship Galaxy S smartphone range", one of the people said.
Samsung declined to comment about Project Valley in an e-mailed statement.
