Emir Bardakçı
A report surfaced suggesting that Xiaomi is set to join the foldable action in earnest, specifically the tri-fold smartphone market. According to a patent filing spotted at the China National Intellectual Property Administration, or CNIPA, Xiaomi’s design seems to mimic the approach taken by Huawei when it announced the Mate XT, the first tri-fold phone to hit the market. Details of Xiaomi’s Tri-Fold Patent
The patent filing, dated September 3rd, discloses a design featuring a foldable device with three distinct screen sizes realized through multiple hinges, a hallmark of tri-fold phones. This will enable a range of usage modes depending on how the device is folded-highly adaptable in various scenarios, from tablet-like functionality to compact smartphone form.
A notable feature from the renders is that there is a horizontal camera bar on the back panel, which appears to sport three sensors. It would therefore appear that Xiaomi has invested a significant amount into fitting a supreme camera system, no different from those within the firm’s premium phones.
Rumored Features and Possible Launch
While the patent filing does not confirm the consumer release, speculations have risen that this tri-fold model could form part of Xiaomi’s MIX series, a line of devices known for their experimental and boundary-pushing design. With Xiaomi’s previous concept, MIX Alpha, incorporating a wrap-around display, on paper, such a tri-fold concept certainly does make it even more exciting. Rumors about Xiaomi’s tri-fold ambitions have been going on for several months, with leaks on Weibo and reports from 91mobiles suggesting this device may make its global debut, whereas Huawei’s Mate XT faces restrictions due to sanctions.
What can be expected from the tri-fold of Xiaomi? Xiaomi’s tri-fold phone, if launched may offer:
- Multiple screen sizes for flexibility in choice by the user for other form factors.
- A high-performance camera system with three sensors positioned in a horizontal bar.
- Latest folding technology, under the probably already brand MIX:.
- Potential availability in every market, with Android OS, to instantly give it an edge over Huawei’s models lacking Google services.
A three-fold smartphone from Xiaomi can prove to be a game-changer for the company and become a milestone for foldable technology. Keep watching for further updates as, in due course, Xiaomi might spill the beans on this revolutionary device! Head to XiaomiTime.com for more updates on latest patents and leaks from Xiaomi.
