Is this the future of hybrid devices? Motorola patents a smartwatch that doubles as a phone

Foldable smartphones like Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8, they shrink to half their size when folded, but we still need a pocket or bag to carry them. Those who prefer to avoid pockets can use a smartwatch, but due to the small screen and limited selection of apps, it cannot replace a real phone.

Motorola has now addressed this very problem with its new concept. As revealed by sources Burnplate and @xleaks7, Motorola has patented a device with a flexible screen that acts as a hybrid between a smartwatch and a smartphone.

In smartwatch mode, the device curves around your wrist, with the screen facing out. Magnets hold the two ends together for a secure fit, while also allowing you to adjust the size of the “strap.” When you want to transform this watch into a smartphone, you simply remove it from your wrist and straighten it out. To achieve a more traditional smartphone aspect ratio, the two halves can be separated and placed side by side.

Although this is an extremely innovative solution, it is worth remaining somewhat skeptical, as such a product is probably still far from being on store shelves. Given the current state of technology, such a device would be relatively thick and heavy on the wrist. In addition, a smartphone screen, which is made up of several individual panels, would probably not offer the most comfortable user experience in practice.

Motorola's patent only shows what the company is working on within its development departments for now. Whether or when they plan to actually release this smartwatch-smartphone hybrid on the market remains completely unclear.