Microsoft could have the secret to making foldable displays sturdier

After the debacle surrounding the release of the Samsung Galaxy Fold, companies are likely scrambling to figure out how to make future foldable devices stronger. It turns out a Microsoft foldable display patent could be the key to making future foldables last longer.

In a new set of Microsoft patents discovered by Windows United (via The Verge), we can see that Microsoft thinks a liquid-fortified hinge is an answer to keeping an unknown Microsoft foldable device lasting through continued use. The liquid fills in gaps created by the motion of the hinge which relieves pressure on the display.

Not only does the liquid theoretically help with relieving pressure, but it also helps prevent dust and other debris from entering into the display, which is another problem we saw on the Galaxy Fold.

The patent image below gives you an idea of how this works:

Interestingly, this patent doesn’t appear to be “locked” to a specific Microsoft foldable device. Instead, it’s been filed by “Microsoft technology licensing,” which strongly suggests the company could sell this design to other companies.

Microsoft has an October event on the way where it will debut new entries into its line of Surface tablets. It’s unlikely we’ll see a commercial-ready dual-screen or foldable product at that event, but it’s quite possible Microsoft will tease some future devices based on this technology.

What do you think? Does this patent seem to be a good way to make foldables last longer? Are you ready for a foldable Microsoft device? Let us know in the comments below!