Samsung has filed a patent which was published on 27th August 2020 that describes the technology needed to create a transparent smartphone. According to the patent, it describes that the smartphone uses an OLED display equipped with a transparent luminous display panel, which allows content to display on the transparent screen while allowing the user to see through the phone. The patent also describes that the smartphone can be used as a flat display or a flexible screen that can bend, fold or roll.

Advantages of a transparent OLED display

The development of a transparent display provides many futuristic opportunities such as having a viewfinder for cameras; doubled sided touch screen may offer the opportunity to run different applications on both displays. Transparent OLED displays are self-lit screens unlike LCD screens, which require a backbox or backing unit to house the light. When switched off, the display remains transparent enabling customers to see products behind the display. When the transparent display technology is combined with touchscreen technology, it can offer a fully immersive experience. The experience could leave customers a memorable experience therefore increasing brand awareness.

The visual impact of a transparent OLED display will provide that wow factor and provide that futuristic look when in retail stores, hair & beauty salons, or hotels. As transparent displays are uncommon they retain a large degree of mystery and a lot of potential in what the technology can achieve. Companies are still finding ways in which technology will benefit their company/brand.

Disadvantages of transparent OLED display

The development of transparent display has many drawbacks currently. Developing such a device will cost a lot of money on research and development. To achieve a transparent display, companies like Samsung will need to find ways to move components, as they cannot be placed behind the display. One way is to thicken the bezels around the display to allow space for components to be housed. The viewing experience will vary depending on the background, the user might find the transparent display fatiguing on the eyes if the background contains different elements. On a simple background, the content will be easier on the eyes.

Summary

Transparent display technology opens a lot of avenues for brands to provide a memorable customer experience. Samsung is not the only company experimenting with transparent display technology, LG is also manufacturing the transparent display. With a lot of interest in interactive display technology from various companies, the development will be sped up and the availability of the technology could be sooner.