News - Qualcomm patents three-screen device

[HEXUS]

A patent filing implies Qualcomm is thinking about getting into the mobile device game itself.

Read more.

[Grebowski]

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.

[Scarlet Infidel]

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.

[scaryjim]

Can't see how that would ever get a patent.

It's filed in America?

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...

[Scarlet Infidel]

Madness. I thought a patent had to be a non-obvious invention. A few hinges and sensors is hardly ground-breaking stuff.

[aidanjt]

Tenner says some sliding door company sues them for copying their double-hinge 'technology'.