The Unreleased Rollable Smartphone!
Why It Matters
The rollable prototype proves a crease‑free, tablet‑sized phone is feasible, signaling a new direction for premium mobile design and prompting rivals to accelerate rollable development.
Key Takeaways
- •LG’s rollable prototype expands from 6.7" to 7.4" tablet size
- •Three‑finger swipe triggers motorized roll, accompanied by custom sound
- •Display wraps around chassis, enabling back‑screen notifications and selfies
- •Hardware includes 4500 mAh battery, 12 GB RAM, dual motors
- •Durability concerns: no IP rating, pinch risk, visible gear teeth
Summary
LG’s final unreleased effort was a motor‑driven rollable smartphone that transforms from a 6.7‑inch slab into a 7.4‑inch mini‑tablet with a three‑finger swipe. The device, obtained by the reviewer through Dbrand, showcases a seamless expansion animation, custom sound cues, and a clear glass back that can display UI elements or camera previews.
The prototype packs flagship‑level specs—4500 mAh battery, 12 GB RAM, a 64‑MP main sensor, and dual motors that can push five pounds of resistance. Its design hides the extra display behind a rail, uses pressure‑sensitive volume zones, and places the power/fingerprint sensor on the back. Software tricks, such as blooming lock‑screen animations and column‑adding settings, make the transition feel polished.
Notable quirks include strong motors that can unintentionally pinch small objects, lack of water‑dust protection, and visible gear teeth when opened. The phone also offers customizable roll sounds and a subtle crease, less pronounced than typical foldables but still present. Enthusiasts have already dissected its internals, revealing two motors, spring‑loaded arms, and an over‑engineered chassis.
While LG never shipped the device due to financial collapse, the prototype demonstrates that rollable form factors are technically viable. It hints at future competition, especially as Samsung reportedly explores similar concepts, potentially reshaping the premium smartphone market with crease‑free large displays.
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