Previewed at CES: 'LG Rollable'

This time, only the teaser video is released
The actual product will be unveiled after March

LG Rollable Expected Image (Source=Minigigi Korea)

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] LG Electronics' first rollable smartphone, the 'LG Rollable' (tentative name), is about to reveal a teaser video.

LG Electronics plans to unveil the LG Rollable introduction video at CES 2021, which opens on the 11th (local time). Although there will be no physical exhibition or unveiling, the video containing hints about the rollable phone aims to increase consumer interest. On the 10th, an expected image showing the LG Rollable's center widening and the screen size expanding from 6.8 inches (resolution 1080*2428) to 7.4 inches (1600*2428) was also released through the domestic IT community Mini Device Korea. The image is similar to one that appeared in the expandable display patent LG Electronics acquired in 2019.

LG Electronics is developing the rollable phone with a target release as early as March. The rollable phone is a form that unfolds one or both sides of the screen, usually rolled up, and can be extended when needed. Although the product name is undecided, LG Electronics has registered the trademarks 'LG Rollable' and 'LG Slide' in the United States, making it highly likely that one of these will be chosen.

The LG Rollable features a 6.8-inch display that extends to the right, expanding up to 7.4 inches. It includes a function to change the aspect ratio according to usage situations, such as phone mode (20:9), video mode (16:9), and productivity mode (3:2). It is expected to be equipped with Qualcomm's new chipset, Snapdragon 888, a 4200mAh battery capacity, and 16GB of RAM. Although there are rumors it will launch at $2350, it is expected to be released at a lower price.

Chinese smartphone manufacturer Oppo unveiled a rollable phone prototype, the 'Oppo X 2021,' which expands from 6.7 inches to 7.4 inches, earlier than LG Electronics, but LG is expected to be faster in commercialization. Samsung Electronics is also developing a rollable phone.

Meanwhile, LG Electronics is operating its flagship smartphone development project on two tracks. The typical bar-type smartphones belong to the 'Universal' line, while innovative form factor smartphones are released under the 'Explorer Project.' Following the 'Wing,' launched in October last year, the rollable phone is the second project under this initiative.