Samsung’s next iteration of the Z Flip foldable phone could introduce a groundbreaking design element: a built-in speaker integrated into the display. This advancement aims to enhance user privacy during phone calls, even when the device is closed. Currently, users of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 must open the device to answer calls discreetly, as the only option when folded is to use the loudspeaker.
According to a report from the Korean outlet Sisa Journal, Samsung is collaborating with LG to develop a novel display technology specifically designed for foldable smartphones. This innovation seeks to replace the traditional ear speaker, particularly for clamshell models that typically require full opening to ensure private conversations.
The new display technology will utilize piezoelectric mechanisms, enabling the screen itself to vibrate and generate sound. This approach is expected to effectively substitute the conventional ear speaker, which usually resides behind the cutout in modern smartphones.
This integrated piezoelectric speaker will be embedded within the layers of the display, eliminating the need for separate hardware that typically occupies space at the top of the device. By merging these components, the design not only saves space but also allows for additional internal features—a critical consideration given the compact nature of foldable devices.
Researchers note that this innovative design allows for dual audio sources, enabling users to place their ear directly on the cover display and take calls privately without needing to unfold the phone.
Though the concept of piezoelectric sound technology is not entirely new—having first been introduced in a commercially available smartphone by Xiaomi in 2016—the approach is being refined for Samsung’s foldables. Xiaomi’s Mi Mix featured this technology alongside an ultrasonic proximity sensor, prioritizing a bezel-less design at the expense of traditional components. However, subsequent models, such as the Mi Mix 2, reverted to conventional speaker designs.
As Samsung gears up for the launch of its next Z Flip model, the integration of such advanced features could redefine user interaction with foldable devices, making private conversations more accessible than ever before.
