Motorola Unveils Wearable Smartphone Concept That Can Be Wrapped Around the Wrist

Jace Dela Cruz, Tech Times 27 February 2024, 06:02 am

Motorola has introduced a wearable smartphone concept, suggesting a potential shift towards wrist-worn devices in the future.

Motorola Unveils Wearable Smartphone Concept in Barcelona

According to CNBC, the concept was unveiled at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, showcasing a bendable smartphone that can be wrapped around the wrist or placed upright on a table.

While the product remains a mere concept and may never hit the market, Motorola aims to demonstrate advancements in display technology amid fierce competition in the smartphone industry.

(Photo : David Ramos/Getty Images)
BARCELONA, SPAIN - MARCH 03: Logos sit illuminated outside the Lenovo and Motorola pavilion during the second day of the Mobile World Congress 2015 at the Fira Gran Via complex on March 3, 2015 in Barcelona, Spain. The annual Mobile World Congress hosts some of the wold's largest communication companies, with many unveiling their latest phones and wearables gadgets.

During a demonstration, a Motorola representative showcased the device's flexibility, illustrating how it can adapt to different bending angles to accommodate various usage scenarios.

When wrapped around the wrist, the display alters its layout, with apps appearing at the top for improved accessibility. The representative emphasized that the phone is "contextually aware," meaning it adjusts its interface based on its bending configuration.

The bending mechanism of the phone was likened to the human spine, indicating a degree of flexibility inspired by natural biomechanics.

Fashion Accessory

In one demonstration, the device's camera capabilities were showcased, with the phone generating background images that complemented the subject of a photograph, effectively turning the device into a fashion accessory when worn, according to CNBC.

Motorola's presentation of innovative prototypes is not uncommon, as the company frequently showcases experimental devices to highlight technological advancements. Previous demonstrations have included a laptop with a see-through screen and a smartphone with a rollable display.

The latest bendable display concept builds upon the progress made in foldable screen technology, with Motorola having previously released a foldable smartphone under its i Razr brand in 2020.

Flexible Smartphone Tech

Notably, the company introduced various new devices at Lenovo's Tech World 2023 expo last year. These products showcased advancements in flexible smartphone technology and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into Motorola's product lineup.

Among the standout innovations introduced at the expo was the adaptive display concept featuring an FHD+ pOLED display that can be flexed and contoured to cater to users' preferences.

The adaptive display concept enables a seamless transition from a standard flat Android phone experience to diverse forms, including a wrist-worn configuration or various stand modes.

The 6.9" display operates as a typical Android smartphone in the flat position. In an upright position, it morphs into a self-supporting device featuring a smaller 4.6" display. Moreover, users can opt to encase the device around their wrist to stay connected while on the move.