All about Bezel-less and Foldable Smart Devices

Molding clay? Yup. The Verge didn't peel the screen protector off of their Samsung Fold, but they did use molding clay on the screen to prop up the phone for photo's... and some of the clay / residue could have dropped into the hinge and onto the back of the screen, making that "bulge" and causing the failure?

" Whatever happened, it certainly wasn’t because I have treated this phone badly. I’ve done normal phone stuff, like opening and closing the hinge and putting it in my pocket. We did stick a tiny piece of molding clay on the back of the phone yesterday to prop it up for a video shoot, which is something we do in every phone video shoot. So perhaps a tiny piece of that snuck into a gap on the back of the hinge and then around or through its cogs until it lodged in between the screen and the hinge. It’d be sort of like Charlie Chaplin getting caught in the gears in Modern Times.

Or maybe something got in another one of the little gaps somewhere else. Or maybe it was pieces from the hinge itself breaking loose and working their way up into the screen. I don’t know. I just know that the screen is broken, and there was no obvious proximate cause for the bulge that broke it. I certainly haven’t used it on a beach or shook it in a bag of chips or anything wild. Just normal use."

Samsung Galaxy Fold - What's Actually Causing The Break?
Lew Later
Published on Apr 18, 2019
The Samsung Galaxy Fold is the hottest thing in tech right now. Some reviewers are experiencing problems. Jon Rettinger and I discuss the durability of the Galaxy Fold and some of the potential causes of the broken Samsung Galaxy Fold phones.


Samsung's folding phone breaks for reviewers
By Dave Lee, 18 April 2019
https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-47970788

""Whatever happened, it certainly wasn’t because I have treated this phone badly," wrote Mr Bohn at The Verge.

"I’ve done normal phone stuff, like opening and closing the hinge and putting it in my pocket. We did stick a tiny piece of moulding clay on the back of the phone yesterday to prop it up for a video shoot, which is something we do in every phone video shoot.”"

 

That we agree on. I said in my post the Fold has a softer substrate so it can be folded.

What's still not clear to me is how this "integral part", that sounds just like a normal screen protector, is any different from other pre-installed screen protectors.

Yes, that's what's Samsung is now saying. It's not optional to keep it; it's mandatory. Maybe it actually was never intended as a replacable film, unlike previous phones, and just not clearly enough labeled, but I'm not convinced it's not also a bit of a distraction, considering one reviewer didn't remove the protective film and had display issues all the same. What's also strange, if the lack of labeling was just an oversight, is the adhesive they used. Surely they could have achieved the needed protection without the layer being peelable?

Said protectors have not been considered "integral" to the display structure before, but yes. You can order replacements for pre-installed Samsung screen protectors on previous phones. Screen protectors have been considered prone to wear and user serviceable.

https://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/m...-screen-protector-transparent-et-fg973ctegus/
https://9to5google.com/2019/02/28/galaxy-s10-screen-protectors-warranty/

Some people prefer the feel of directly touching the glass and the properties of its oleophobic coating. I'm one of them. My current phone shipped without a screen protector pre-installed and I never bothered to install one. It's held up fine, although the oleophibic coating has now worn off. Just a personal preference and I may reconsider in the future. Never could get used to screen protectors I used in the past, but I'm sure there are better alternatives out there now.

Agreed. So far the news stories seem to revolve around a single official statement made by Samsung, with interpretations carried out. I'd love to hear what Samsung has to say after their investigation of the failed devices and hope it's something minor. Maybe the one failed device with the screen protector left on was just a lemon and the removal of it is indeed the cause. We'll see.

 

Samsung Galaxy Fold Officially DELAYED!
SuperSaf
Published on Apr 22, 2019
The Samsung Galaxy Fold has been officially delayed following reports of screens breaking! Why is they and what does this mean? Let's break it down.

 

It's a silly form factor anyways. Your phone is too small when folded to be useful, and to big when unfolded. Plus, no matter what the material, folding again and again will break it down.

 

I think its re-hashed version of E90 communicator with OLED, big camera and battery.

 

If this new Razr becomes reality and not too expensive, it might actually be worth checking out..

Rendered images based on the patent applications and leaked press stuff do look interesting.

 

When I saw that Razr fold, it's the first phone in a while I've thought, "Hey, I'd like to have that one!".

The Motorola StarTAC phone line up through the last flip phone Razr's were some of my favorite designs.

 

Samsung Is Cancelling Unconfirmed Galaxy Fold Orders By May 31 (Update)
Jesus Diaz, Updated May 7, 2019
https://www.tomsguide.com/us/samsung-galaxy-fold-cancellation-may-31,news-30011.html
...
"Samsung later gave the following statement to CNBC:
" Samsung Electronics America is committed to keeping our customers informed on the status of their Galaxy Fold preorder. While we continue to make progress in enhancing the Galaxy Fold, a new release date has not yet been announced. Because of this, we have recently contacted our preorder customers to provide them information on their options as we move forward.

As per U.S. regulations, we are required to notify customers that their preorders will be cancelled in the event the product has not been shipped by May 31st. Samsung Electronics America is offering customers an option to keep their orders past this date and customers may also cancel their orders at any time.

Samsung values the trust our customers place in us and want to thank them for their patience and understanding.”"

 

Samsung is starting shipment of their folding Fold smartphone:

Update 16 (9/4/19 @ 10:58 PM ET): We can finally declare this saga over, as the Samsung Galaxy Fold will officially go on sale in South Korea this Friday. The phone will launch internationally in the coming weeks.

How Did Samsung Fix The Galaxy Fold? [Hands-On]
MrMobile [Michael Fisher]
Published on Sep 5, 2019
First, a quick refresher on the Samsung Galaxy Fold timeline. November 2018, Samsung teases its first folding phone; February 2019, it’s officially announced; early-April, it hits reviewers’ hands … and by mid-April … it starts breaking. Like, a lot. Late April: Samsung delays pre-orders, pulls the units back and announced its plans to redesign the hardware to fix those issues.

Flash forward to early September, at IFA 2019 in Berlin: after four long months, I finally get to go hands-on with what I sincerely hope is Samsung's go-to-market fix. Because the redesigned Samsung Galaxy Fold is finally here ... and tomorrow, it will be back on store shelves. Join me for my first impressions of the "fixed" Galaxy Fold!

MrMobile's Galaxy Fold Fix / Galaxy Fold Re-Design Hands-On was produced following 40 minutes with a Samsung Galaxy Fold review sample at a Samsung press event at IFA 2019 in Berlin, Germany. MrMobile does not produce paid or sponsored reviews; Samsung was not offered copy approval and no compensation was requested or provided in exchange for this coverage.

Samsung Galaxy Fold launch delay timeline [XDA]:
https://www.xda-developers.com/samsung-galaxy-fold-launch-delays/


How Samsung 'fixed' the Galaxy Fold
The Verge
Published on Sep 5, 2019
Samsung’s Galaxy Fold had some major issues with the display and hinge back when we reviewed it in April. Samsung now thinks it has addressed the problems after making some key hardware changes to the protective film and hinge. We’re taking a first look at the Galaxy Fold changes. The phone will be available on September 18th in France, Germany, Singapore, and the UK, but Samsung hasn’t revealed an exact date for the US yet.
Read more: https://www.theverge.com/2019/9/5/20850693/samsung-galaxy-fold-hands-on-ifa-2019-fixed-display-hinge

 

MS does another phone, but is so shy about admitting it's a phone it doesn't call it a phone.

Did Microsoft just unveil a Surface PHONE?? Surface Duo!
Android Authority
Published on Oct 2, 2019


Microsoft Surface announcements in 15 minutes
Neo and Duo @ 06:40
Engadget
Published on Oct 2, 2019
The biggest announcements and products from today's keynote.


Microsoft's Live Event - Starts @ 02:50
Microsoft Surface
Streamed live 9 hours ago
See what’s next from Microsoft Surface at the #MicrosoftEvent in New York City.

 

A few different views / perspectives on the new Android / ARM / Dual Display / X devices from Microsoft, check out the other links for more.

I'm most interested in the small Android device, Windows is still too much of bin fire disaster to touch to add to new form factor tech, in the past it's always a disappointment.

For me the first MS Tablets, MS Phone, etc are all regretful for everyone I've met that actually tried to use one day to day - with a few dediated fan's as exceptions. I am hoping it works out differently this time.

Surface Duo first look: Microsoft's foldable Android phone
The Verge
Published on Oct 3, 2019
Microsoft surprised us with the Surface Duo this week. It’s the long-awaited Surface phone that has been rumored for years, and in a further surprise, it’s running Google’s Android operating system. The Surface Duo has two 5.6-inch displays that fold out into a 8.3-inch overall screen, and it’s just 4.8mm thin.
Read more: http://bit.ly/2oHAaXD
Microsoft Surface Neo first look: http://bit.ly/2owUIC3
Surface Laptop 3 hands-on: http://bit.ly/2ovb5za
Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 7 hands-on: http://bit.ly/2owDKnv
Surface Earbuds hands-on: http://bit.ly/2n4Dpbi
Top announcements from Microsoft’s Surface event: http://bit.ly/2n1n9I0


The Surface Neo Has Me Feeling...
Lew Later
Published on Oct 3, 2019
Microsoft is launching some ambitious products including the a new Surface Pro X, Surface Neo and Surface Duo. These devices are challenging the notion of what computers/smartphones should look like and how they should behave.


The Microsoft Surface Phone Is Happening
Unbox Therapy
Published on Oct 2, 2019
Microsoft just went full science fiction in today's event launching a number of futuristic Surface products. We'll be seeing a new Surface Laptop 3, Surface Pro 7, Surface Pro X, Surface Neo (Folding tablet) and Surface Duo (Folding smartphone). Microsoft also announced some fully wireless earbuds named... you guessed it, the Surface Earbuds.


Talking Tech with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella!
Marques Brownlee
Published on Oct 3, 2019
Satya Nadella talks Microsoft, new products, Steve Baller's advice and going to Mars!
2020 Surface Products
Surface Neo and Surface

 

MSFT's foldable Android Phone is just a experiment and will be forgotten like WP. I won't buy any MSFT products aside from MSO and Windows.

 

I agree with you for the past devices, but I think those new products are different and I'll give it a try.

 

Good luck brother!

 

More foldable reviews, IDK I think I still like the double / dual screen "foldable" as I can do without the added worry of the screen splitting / wearing over time. Plus the large cost increase to "MacGyver" the hinge adds way too much to the entry price of those devices for me to venture into them. The added screen via case like the Asus ROG Phone or the LG dual screens match the available technology and minimize the cost while providing more usable screen area.

LG G8X Proves Foldables are Coming!
Marques Brownlee
Published on Oct 31, 2019
Folding phones are incoming. Believe it!


ASUS ROG 2 - The Best Deal On Android?
Flossy Carter
Published on Oct 29, 2019
ASUS ROG 2 - The Best Deal On Android? 30W Charger/ Fan Available with the max configuration. Fan and accessories sold separately.


Every other phone is dead to me. - Galaxy Fold Review
Linus Tech Tips
Published on Oct 28, 2019
While there have been unique smartphone designs out of China in the past couple years, the Samsung Galaxy Fold is the first device since maybe the iPhone 4 to really be a game-changer.


Man, those screen "notch"'es all suck, that's one thing I wish would change in all phones. Even though the Samsung Note 10+'s small "dot" notch is the least intrusive - it still bugs me when I am watching full screen videos - using Netflix downloaded movies is awesome but that cutout "dot" sticks out such that even after you get used to it being there as soon as there is a scene change with a different contrast / brightness that dark "dot" pokes up into your eye.

 

eh, I don't think the foldables will be around that long. It's just the current fad, hopefully...lol

 

I'm waiting for the "Origami" foldables.

I'd like a bird perched on my shoulder that folds out into a tablet.

 

I must say my StarTac's, Razr's, all my little Moto's are jumping up and down with excitment. So am I. $1499!!! Pass.

2020 Moto RAZR Impressions! The Return of a Folding Icon!
Marques Brownlee
Published on Nov 14, 2019
The Motorola RAZR is back for 2020. The flip phone re-invented. With a bunch of catches.


Motorola Razr first look: A foldable and flip phone in one
CNET
Published on Nov 13, 2019
Motorola's new foldable phone costs $1,500 and folds in half from top to bottom. We walk you through the screen, the specs and what it's like to use.


OMG, even worse, it's got a giant notch. WTH? There's plenty of room on that device to put the notch-components. Free Our Screens!! Man that's gonna suck for watching video with that huge notch cut out. First thing I would think of when my eye gets poked out by that notch, "I paid $1500 for this... GIANT NOTCH!!??"


" The Razr is back, but now it’s an Android smartphone that can fold in half. Motorola has officially announced its much-rumored (and much-leaked) modern spin on the iconic flip phone. The 2019 Razr keeps the same general form factor but replaces the T9 keypad and small LCD with a 6.2-inch foldable plastic OLED panel and Android 9 Pie. It’ll cost $1,499 when it arrives in January 2020.

The new Razr is a fundamentally different take on the foldable phones that we’ve seen so far: instead of turning a modern-sized phone into a smaller tablet, it turns a conventional-sized smartphone into something much smaller and more pocketable."
https://www.theverge.com/2019/11/13...hone-android-hands-on-flip-phone-photos-video

 

The New Razor looks nice, But not $1500 nice.

 

Lenovo's Foldable PC preview at Tech World 2019

 

Another Razr Destructo...

2020 Moto RAZR Durability Test! - Will the Folding Icon Survive!?
Feb 8, 2020
JerryRigEverything
Its time to durability test the Moto Razr! The new folding Motorola Razr phone is here. That same iconic folding flip phone that all the cool kids had is BACK. And this time it has a fully flexible 6.2 inch folding screen. But how much abuse can it handle? Will the new razr break in half the first time you snap it shut for a phone call? What happens if you accidentally try to bend the Razr phone back the wrong direction? Is the Motorola Razr Dust proof? All these questions and more will be answered in todays durability test.
Galaxy Fold durability test
Flexpai Durability Test

 

Not good, needs more development.

 

Samsung supposedly have said the glass is below a plastic screen protector, But according to the video below if you peel off the so called screen protector the display breaks and goes black.

 

Do Dual Screen Phones Make Sense?

 

OnePlus Nord Launches July 21 In 'World’s First AR Smartphone Launch'

The OnePlus Nord is due to be officially launched on July 21 and unlike other phone launches, this one has an augmented reality angle to it.
https://screenrant.com/oneplus-nord-smartphone-ar-product-launch/

 

I won't be owning any foldable phone without it running either a version of windows or iOS. I have a samsung android tablet and android is a pile. It's slow, buggy, crashes etc. You would think after years of this stuff happening on android, they would have this figured out by now. But nope. Still the same since my first android phone. I am trying to find alternative apps on iOS for our vehicles at this point so I can move to a new ipad mini for our Jeeps. Android OUT!

 

Galaxy Fold: Are Folding Phones Really the Future?

 

Samsung Note20 and Note20 Ultra 5G Promo-Video-Leak. Proof of Snapdragon 865+ in AT&T models

 

Well, the surface duo is up for pre order and I'm smitten. I'm so close to dropping the hammer on the 256gb version.

 

I suggest waiting few weeks until we can get some users feedback, just to make sure it's durable and no bugs or something.

 

Yes I won't be ready until then anyways. Using android wear I would have pay available through the watch correct?

 

The new Surface Duo
Do one better. There’s a new way to get things done.
PRE-ORDER
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/devices/surface-duo?icid=mscom_marcom

 

Which Pay are you talking about? If it's Android pay then yes, pay will work on the watch, don't know on the others.

 

Android / google pay is what I'm talking about. So nfc is not a huge issue for me at that point.

 

iPhone Fold - The folding iPhone is REAL (exclusive)


https://www.macworld.co.uk/news/iphone/foldable-iphone-release-date-3692865/

 

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 Commercial Video Leaked

 

The NEW ASUS ZenFone 7 Pro!

 

Asus ZenFone 7 Pro: $940 for a flipping camera (first look)

 

Samsung should explain this... Exynos vs Qualcomm?! - Note 20 Ultra

 

Motorola RAZR 5G Unboxing. The Newest Folding Phone

 

LG Wing Unboxing - This Thing is WILD

 

I pre-ordered the Z fold 2 and received it on the 16th; I've got some time in now. It's the future for sure but that future isn't all in yet: You've got a variety of behaviors with different apps in terms of how they deal with the fold and you have trial by error to figure out what apps support what possibilities. It's heavy enough that it has to be considered when moving about; as an example it's more than heavy enough in your jacket pocket to swing the jacket pocket around if your not buttoned up which led my example into a door jamb getting into the car. Lounging around in your surgical pants in the evening? Yeah, those things can find their way around your ankles. That kind of weight. While not being as fragile as some think you do have to consider it's continued survival and we've got away from that with phones at this point making it feel like a step back. More subjective is the use of the front screen, I hate tall and skinny in my phones and this about as far that way as you can get. I use if for very little and that isn't going to change. What that then means is I flip it open to get at the creamy center even when I'm on the go most of the time and while it seems like an incredibly minor thing I notice the slowdown in my routine, it feels like a speedbump.

The good you already know; that inner screen is a game changer. I find I do things I would have got my laptop out to do before. The one thing I'd single out that got much better is surfing the internet, you can use the desktop site everywhere and you've got the space to make that work effortlessly without hindrance even with a keyboard open.

All in I had been planning on sending it back during my 15 days if I couldn't make friends with it but that isn't happening. It's got it's irritants but the benefits far outweigh them in my use. I would suggest potential purchasers buy from a place where it can be returned, despite it's cool factor I think some will want to send it back.

 

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold hands-on




The world’s first foldable PC is now available to order from Lenovo

https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/29/...ble-pc-nano-thinkbook-5g-tiger-lake-intel-evo

 

Looks interesting. Anyone going to order one?

 

I'll wait for a trusted technical review, then will look for a good sale time.

 

which reviews? Also buy from which distributor or Lenovo?

 

The First Folding Screen Tablet!

 

The First ROLLABLE Smartphone Is HERE