BOE(SZ:000725) 3 6 Ke·2024-02-07 00:30Core Insights - Huawei has released three types of foldable smartphones, with the latest being the Mate X5 launched on September 8, 2023, and has registered patents for a three-fold screen device [1][4]. Patent Information - Huawei registered two patents related to three-fold screens in March and July 2022, detailing a device with three housings and two connecting components [1][2]. - The patents describe mechanisms that ensure the device folds in a specific sequence to enhance usability and lifespan [2][3]. Market Position - In the first three quarters of 2023, Huawei held the largest market share in the foldable smartphone segment in China at 31.7%, followed by OPPO, Samsung, Honor, and Vivo [4]. - The shipment volumes for foldable smartphones in China showed significant growth, with year-on-year increases of 52.8%, 173%, and 90.4% in the first, second, and third quarters, respectively [4]. Industry Developments - Samsung has showcased prototypes of three-fold smartphones, including the Flex S and Flex G, which feature dual-hinge designs [5]. - Other domestic manufacturers like Huaxing Optoelectronics, Visionox, and BOE have also presented their three-fold screen concepts [5][6]. Technical Challenges - The three-fold screen technology faces challenges such as managing internal and external folding simultaneously, which puts significant stress on the flexible screen [7]. - The reverse folding stress can lead to structural instability and affect the display lifespan [7].