Samsung's patent shows a gaming handheld with a foldable screen

The handheld gaming segment could see a boom in the coming years. Samsung, the world’s leading smartphone brand, could be working on a gaming handheld device with a foldable screen. The company could use its experience with flexible screens to stand out from the competition.

In recent weeks, news and leaks have been surfacing that predict a bright future for the handheld gaming market. Microsoft confirmed that a portable Xbox is something it has in mind, while Sony is also reportedly developing a true standalone handheld console (not like the PlayStation Portal). We’ve also seen a constant stream of reports about the long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2.

Samsung patents a foldable gaming handheld device

Now, a patent spotted by 91mobiles suggests that Samsung has been considering the possibility of releasing a foldable gaming handheld. The sketches accompanying the document show a very slim device. The console’s flexible screen technology enables folding, resulting in a square form factor akin to the Galaxy Z Flip. It also incorporates the patented Flex Hinge, a feature present in other Samsung foldables, to guarantee its integrity and durability.

The patented device includes a joystick and an arrangement of four physical buttons (d-pads) on each side. The physical buttons have a somewhat peculiar and potentially uncomfortable form factor. Side views of the sketch show something similar to capacitive buttons that could play the role of traditional controller triggers. Some ports (such as MicroSD) and a power button also seem to be present.

The report does not mention the year Samsung filed the patent with the WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization). Some recent Samsung patents were actually filed years ago but recently published by the organization.

Samsung must consider the requirements of the gamer public

If Samsung really wants to launch a foldable gaming handheld device, it will need to overcome some tech challenges. For example, modern foldable screens still show a crease in the fold area. This can be annoying for gamers who want their screens to always be spotless. Gaming device screens also possess unique features, such as a high sampling rate, that enables instant response to touch during competitive games.

Samsung’s potential entry into the portable console market could liven things up a bit, just as it did in the smart ring segment.