Smartwatches have been around for a while, and come in all forms, shapes, and sizes. IBM’s latest patent filing for a smartwatch design, however, could be the most ambitious (and possibly the most outrageous) design we’ve seen for such a device in years.
IBM’s design patent supposedly details a smartwatch that is capable of expanding into two forms while strapped to the wrist. All through the use and application of eight mini displays that are foldable on themselves.
In its smallest form factor, the device would look no different from a typical smartwatch. Once unfolded, however, the images illustrate the display transforming into one of two other sizes.
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The first is the size of a smartphone, which comprises four of the eight mini displays. The second expansion uses up all eight panels, and transforms the wearable’s display into what is essentially a tablet. Beyond that, the patent doesn’t delve into any further detail, not even on the hardware used to power it, which is understandable.
On paper, the design and outlook of the concept looks good, but clearly putting it into practice is going to take some considerable level of know-how. Again, this is merely a concept, so it’s likely that this device may never see the light of day. Even if it does, it’s likely that it will take a lot of convincing people to get them to use it.
(Source: LetsGoDigital, BGR, SlashGear, MSPowerUser // Image: LetsGoDigital)
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