The Elusive Dream of Rollable Phones: A Post-Mortem Analysis
The recent teardown of the unreleased LG Rollable phone has shed light on the complexities and limitations that doomed this innovative concept to remain just that – a concept. The device, which was showcased at CES 2021 as a revolutionary rollable smartphone, never made it to market. As we dissect the inner workings of this prototype, it becomes clear why this form factor never gained traction.
One of the primary concerns with rollable phones is the cost. Foldables like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold have already proven to be pricey devices, and the LG Rollable seems to take that to an even higher level. The device relies on a complex system of motors, tracks, and articulating spring-loaded arms to unfurl its screen real estate. This intricate mechanism would likely drive up production costs, making the phone prohibitively expensive for most consumers.
The teardown reveals that the LG Rollable features two tiny motors attached via straight teeth to an internal track. These motors work in tandem with a lattice of spring-loaded arms inside the phone to keep the OLED panel even as it expands. The battery and motherboard are situated in a tray that allows the back of the phone to expand as the screen rolls into view. While this design is certainly innovative, it’s also clear that it would require significant investment in manufacturing infrastructure and R&D.
The fact that the LG Rollable prototype has been disassembled and reassembled without destroying it speaks volumes about the phone’s build quality. The device features a chunky frame and visible screws, which makes it seem more like a proof-of-concept than a production-ready product. This lack of refinement likely contributed to the phone’s failure to make it to market.
In hindsight, it seems that LG was trying to revolutionize the smartphone industry with the Rollable, but the company ultimately failed to deliver on its promises. The device’s complexities and limitations made it an expensive and impractical option for consumers. As we look back on this concept, it serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of balancing innovation with feasibility in the development process.