Samsung is showcasing a rather interesting smartphone prototype that boasts a flexible OLED screen at CES 2013 in Las Vegas.
Both the prototype handset (which currently lacks an official name) and the screen feature a beveled edge on one side. Personally, I could definitely see a phone like this with a beveled edge on one side that wraps around to a flatter surface going into production and hitting the market sometime soon.
To be sure, thet beveled edge would make a great place to put indicator lights so users can see missed calls or messages from across the room.
In fact, the Samsung prototype device displays notifications along this edge already, with the industry heavyweight saying a flexible screen with an edge is an ideal location for users to read text messages, stock tickers, and other notifications – even if the phone is protected by a case that covers most of the screen.
Since the device is still a prototype, Samsung is rather mum on details, says The Verge, acknowledging only that the latest iteration of the display measures roughly 5-inches across with a 16:9 aspect ratio and 720p screen resolution.
In addition, the prototype can’t really be thought of as a proper smartphone at this stage, as it lacks lacks a radio, operating system and camera.
The device seen in the picture above is basically a slick and flexible screened digital picture frame, but it does hint at what Samsung could have in store for us a few years down the line.
