LG launches shatter-proof stretchable LED display
LG has introduced the "world's first high-resolution" stretchable display, which can also be folded or twisted. The 12-inch display, according to the company, can be stretched to 14 inches without "distortion or damage." The resilient film-type substrate used in contact lenses serves as the foundation for the stretchable LG display. Once the technology is perfected, it could be the next big thing after foldable displays, which are being adopted by many smartphone and PC OEMs.
LG explains in a blog post that the stretchable display employs a micro-LED light source with a pixel pitch of less than 40Î14m. "Unlike the conventional linear wired system, the stretchable display's flexible S-form spring wired system's optimal structure can sustain recurring changes to its form, assuring consumers of its incredible durability and reliability," according to the post.
According to the company, some of its everyday use cases include skin wear, clothing, furniture, automobiles, and aircraft. Stretchable technology may also aid in making devices more portable due to their lightweight design.
Soo-young Yoon, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at LG Display, stated in the post, "We will successfully complete this project to enhance the competitiveness of Korean display technology and lead the industry’s paradigm shift.”
LG also stated that it has been developing the stretchable display in collaboration with twenty organizations in South Korea's industrial-academic sector. At this point, it has only demonstrated the technology; it has yet to appear on a commercial device.
Meanwhile, many brands are gradually adopting folding display technology in order to stay ahead of the competition. Samsung has been producing folding smartphones for some time, and recently, Chinese competitors such as Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, and others have joined the fray. Google is expected to release its folding phone next year. Apple is also expected to release its first folding device next year or in 2024.