ZTE files patent application for folding display

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While 2017's ZTE Axon M is a foldable phone, it uses two separate 5.2-inch displays that are connected by a hinge. Obviously, this is not the same technology that Samsung, Huawei, LG and others are expected to launch next year. Apparently, ZTE would like to join the list of phone manufacturers that will offer such a device. The company filed a design patent application earlier this year with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), which has just been published by the organization (via Mobile Kopen, Let's Go Digital).

Unlike the Axon M, but similar to the form factor unveiled last month by Samsung, ZTE's patent reveals an external screen in front. On back is dual camera setup and a fingerprint scanner. When fully opened, the device becomes a tablet. ZTE didn't include the screen sizes in the patent application, but the size of the tablet display will be twice the size of the external screen. And unlike the device Samsung displayed last month, the external and internal screens are the same height. It should be noted that ZTE filed the patent application on February 27th of this year.

During the first quarter of 2018, ZTE was the fourth largest smartphone manufacturer in the U.S. But thanks to the export ban that took place during the spring and summer, Motorola took over that position during the second and third quarter of this year, according to data from Counterpoint. With the U.S. government accusing Huawei and ZTE of being national security threats, it is doubtful that a ZTE foldable device would make its way to North America.