Samsung has recently applied to register the trademark ‘Ironflex,’ prompting speculation about the possibility of more robust foldable screens in the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, slated for release next summer. The trademark application for Ironflex was filed by Samsung Display to the Korean Intellectual Property Rights Information Service on January 3, indicating a foldable OLED display panel associated with a foldable smartphone.
Since the launch of the first Galaxy Fold, concerns about the durability of folding screens have lingered, especially after the initial setback with the Fold’s release. However, the later versions have all performed better than expected when it comes to the reliability of the hinge or the flexible display. Now this new Ironflex trademark hints at another step forward in the resilience of the flexible display.
The description of goods associated with Samsung’s Ironflex trademark includes several product categories. It hints at the potential deployment of Ironflex panels beyond smartphones. Notably, the company has mentioned ‘foldable wearable video display monitor’ and ‘foldable tablet computer‘, suggesting a broader application of the Ironflex technology including folding tablets and XR/MR devices.
While the trademark application doesn’t provide detailed specifications, it implies a focus on enhancing the durability of the soft OLED display panels, a key consideration for consumers.
Samsung’s ‘Ironflex’ seemingly aims to dissociate ‘fragile’ from ‘foldable’
Although Samsung has not revealed any specific details about the Ironflex technology in the trademark application, it is common for such registrations to align with upcoming product releases. While it remains uncertain whether the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6 will debut with Ironflex screens, the trademark application hints at ongoing developments in Samsung’s display technology.
This move aligns with Samsung’s ongoing efforts to address concerns surrounding the resilience of folding screens, which have been a subject of skepticism since the early days of foldable smartphones.
As the summer release approaches, more information about Samsung’s Ironflex technology and its integration into Samsung’s foldable devices may surface. But before that, we are already getting to see some real-life images of the company’s next Ultra flagship, the Galaxy S24 Ultra on January 17, which apparently comes with some interesting color options.