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A patent filing implies Qualcomm is thinking about getting into the mobile device game itself.
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Read more.Quote:
A patent filing implies Qualcomm is thinking about getting into the mobile device game itself.
The title is somewhat misleading - no patent has been granted, only applied for.
The important part is the claims
1. An electronic device comprising: a first panel having a first display surface and a first back surface; a second panel having a second display surface and a second back surface; a third panel having a third display surface and a third back surface, wherein the first panel is rotatably coupled to a first edge of the second panel and wherein the third panel is rotatably coupled to a second edge of the second panel; a folding configuration sensor configured to detect a configuration of the first panel, the second panel, and the third panel; and a processor configured to execute at least one software application having a graphical user interface, the processor responsive to the folding configuration sensor to modify the graphical user interface based on the detected configuration.
They're pretty broad, claiming a tri-panel screen with a sensor to detect the folding between them and a processor to change the GUI based on the sensor. The International equivalent has had 3 documents cited against the claims so amendment appears likely before any possible grant - best to check back in 4-5 years! However, whether we'll see a 3 screen Qualcomm device before then is an entirely different matter!
Thanks for the news item, it's good to see the patent interests of the major tech companies.
Can't see how that would ever get a patent. I see it more of a message of intent, possibly to entice investors or get media coverage without actually needing a physical prototype.
It's filed in America?Quote:
Originally Posted by Scarlet Infidel
Seriously, they'll patent anything over there. That's why there's so much work for patent lawyers, and why Hexus reports on at least one new patent infringement action a month. There's probably already a patent for a touchscreen device having no other hardware input methods, an interactive user interface operated by pressing virtual buttons on the screen - and the holder is just waiting for the iPad to launch before they start their legal action... ;)
Madness. I thought a patent had to be a non-obvious invention. A few hinges and sensors is hardly ground-breaking stuff.
Tenner says some sliding door company sues them for copying their double-hinge 'technology'.