Xiaomi patented two new screen-wrapped smartphone designs
It became known that Xiaomi has patented two new design options for a smartphone with a screen that wraps the body of the device in a similar way to how it was implemented in the Mi Mix Alpha. If in Mi Mix Alpha, the developers used a flexible display that wraps the case on the sides, then this time we are talking about variants with a panel passing to the backside through the top and bottom edges.
The source notes that patent applications for two new design options were filed at the end of 2019, but the corresponding documentation was published only on January 1, 2021. By and large, both options are almost identical, the differences mainly relate to the organization of the device’s camera.
Judging by the images that are attached to the patent applications, both devices are equipped with a large flexible display that occupies the entire front and most of the rear surface, passing to it through the top and bottom edges of the case. It should be noted that displays are also built into the side surfaces of the case. At the moment, it is not known whether the side displays are touch-sensitive or if their purpose is to show any notifications.
Since the new design assumes that the display wraps the case at the top and bottom, rather than across the sides like the Mi Mix Alpha, both devices look thinner. Since almost the entire surface of the case is occupied by the display, the devices are devoid of physical buttons and a connector for connecting a wired charger.
The first design option involves the use of a camera built on the basis of four sensors, as well as an additional sensor and flash. In the second case, a triple camera is involved. This configuration allows you to use the camera for taking selfies or video calls, and for shooting video or photos.
The patents issued by Xiaomi do not yet mean that the company will begin mass production of the smartphones described in them. The story of Mi Mix Alpha, which never made it to the store shelves, clearly confirms this. However, it cannot be ruled out that in the future the Chinese manufacturer will still release something similar for a wide range of users.
