Xiaomi is getting ready to launch a quite interesting and contemporary-looking smartphone. The form factor is akin to a normal clamshell folding phone, but with the patented fold-in-the-middle feature that allows the device to separate right down the middle.
This is currently a concept prototype, so it may not launch for quite some time. The device has been mentioned in a patent Application of the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) by 91mobiles.
All About the Xiaomi Detachable Clamshell Phone
Some of the finer details concerning the phone and its separation operation are depicted in these sketches included within the patent. Unlike Xiaomi’s prototype, the Samsung device looks close to a finished product – a standard clamshell foldable with a screen that bends on the horizontal axis.
Although some diagrams show the device can divide into two pieces. It appears to be held together by what looks like pogo pins, and users may even be able to swivel the upper section of the foldable, though the precise functionality remains unclear.
This tall display with the central section highlighted on the Xiaomi phone can be seen from an applicant for it being credited internally. While the overall design evidently takes inspiration from Xiaomi’s MIX Flip foldable smartphone, the camera setup appears to be a tad different with three sensors and an LED flash. On the right is where you will find the power button and volume controls while at the bottom is a USB Type-C port next to what looks like a speaker grille.
Now, to be clear this is a patent, and, as with most patents, there is no confirmation on if or when such a device will be released. That being said, it offers a really good perspective into where foldable smartphones might be heading and the designs Xiaomi is exploring.
Outside of that, Honor has a phone that can unfold from multiple angles in development as well — you know the ones with rotating shaft mechanisms enabling multi-direction unfolding. This continues the constant advancements in smartphone technology, especially for foldables.
