Samsung’s first vertical scrolling phone patent exposure The screen can be extended upwards when in use

Comprehensive Analysis of Samsung’s First Vertical Rollable Smartphone

1. Release Date and Background

Samsung plans to launch its first rollable smartphone in 2025, a strategic move to counter Huawei’s tri-fold devices (e.g., Mate XT series) and dominate the high-end market with differentiated technology. Notably, Samsung’s rollable screen strategy extends beyond traditional horizontal designs; patents revealed in April 2025 highlight a vertical rollable form factor, where the screen extends upward while maintaining compactness when retracted. This innovation could position Samsung as a pioneer beyond the foldable phone arena.

2. Core Technologies and Specifications

1. Display Features
   • Size and Form: The horizontal rollable variant expands to 12.4 inches (≈254.4 mm) when unfolded, shrinking to 49 mm when closed—a 5x screen area expansion. The vertical model’s exact dimensions remain undisclosed but emphasize “portability with flexible large-screen switching.”
   • Display Tech: Utilizes flexible OLED panels with crease-free visuals, flagship-level color accuracy, refresh rates (likely 120Hz+), and response times.
   • Under-Display Camera (UPC): All models feature enhanced UPC technology for a true full-screen experience without cutouts.
2. Mechanical Structure and Materials
   • Precision Drive System: The horizontal model employs gears, chain mechanisms, and flexible metal foil to ensure smooth deployment/retraction while improving dust resistance.
   • Vertical Rollable Patent: Implements a top-mounted roll mechanism for vertical screen expansion, paired with a vertical dual-camera setup inspired by the Z Flip series.
3. Performance and Features
   • Processor: Expected to integrate Samsung’s Exynos 2500 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, enabling AI-powered multitasking.
   • Software Optimization: Combines on-device AI for real-time translation, smart summarization, and productivity enhancements tailored to large screens.
   • Battery and Thickness: The horizontal model measures 5.3mm when unfolded (9.8mm closed), balancing slimness with high-energy-density batteries to offset mechanical space constraints.

3. Design Innovation and Market Positioning

1. Differentiation Strategy
   Samsung sidesteps the “crease wars” of foldable rivals by emphasizing crease-free displays and expanded screen real estate. The horizontal model targets entertainment and gaming, while the vertical variant focuses on portable productivity.
2. Technological Barriers
   • Patent Portfolio: Samsung has accumulated rollable screen patents since 2020, covering drive systems, flexible materials, and dustproof solutions.
   • Supply Chain Edge: Leverages Samsung Display’s in-house flexible panel expertise to reduce costs and accelerate iterations.
3. Target Audience
   Aims at tech enthusiasts, premium business users, and content creators, with an estimated price of $12,000, initially positioning it as a luxury product.

4. Market Response and Challenges

1. Positive Feedback
   • Industry Anticipation: Hailed as a “smartphone form revolution” that could pressure competitors to innovate.
   • User Experience: Praised for seamless deployment, flawless screen flatness, and multitasking/creative workflows.
2. Potential Issues
   • Durability Concerns: Complex mechanics may raise reliability risks despite dust-resistant designs.
   • Ecosystem Adaptation: App optimization for large screens may lag, mirroring early foldable device challenges.
   • Price Barrier: High cost could limit adoption, fostering consumer hesitancy.

5. Future Outlook

Samsung’s rollable phones mark a shift from “folding” to “rolling” smartphone designs. If technical and cost hurdles are overcome, future iterations could evolve into 15-inch+ hybrid devices (phone-tablet-laptop). Vertical rollable tech may also inspire wearables (e.g., rollable bracelets). By integrating AI with flexible displays, Samsung could advance ubiquitous “screen-as-interface” applications.