A Foldable 13-Inch PC with a {{Hardware}} Keyboard

Compal, a primary contract maker/ODM of notebooks and totally different cell models, has developed a prototype of a foldable hybrid capsule which may be outfitted with a {{hardware}} keyboard. The design thought of Compal’s FlexBook resembles Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Fold that’s due to be launched inside the coming months, nonetheless it is unclear whether or not or not the FlexBook will ever be commercialized.

Compal’s FlexBook appears to be like an peculiar 13-inch capsule with panorama orientation that choices two audio system positioned on its lower side, two USB-C connectors, and amount buttons on a side. However the capsule could also be folded in half because it’s outfitted with a foldable OLED present along with a ‘zero gap lay flat hinge’. When half-folded, the gadget might be utilized as a pocket e book, nonetheless it’s miles extra useful to attach a loyal {{hardware}} keyboard to it when working in stationary mode. The FlexBook moreover helps stylus, just like tablets geared towards creative professionals.

The FlexBook is encased in leather-based, so should appear and feel very good. Sadly the company shouldn’t be saying one thing regarding the internals of the prototype FlexBook, as a result of it is clear they’re opting to in its place focus on the design and folding capabilities (i.e. the weather they actually designed) fairly than whose {{hardware}} is beneath. An Arm SoC seems most likely for this prototype, though to a positive extent it doesn’t matter as models this big generally could also be made to accommodate SoCs from nearly any vendor.

Since Compal is a contract maker of laptop methods and totally different electronics, it does not manufacture its private merchandise carrying its mannequin. To that end, FlexBook might operate a proof of thought and as a reference design for a vendor taken with bringing a product like this to the market. Solely time will inform whether or not or not or not Compal’s customers are taken with FlexBook-like models, nonetheless the agency evidently has engineering experience to develop and assemble foldable tablets.

Compal’s official description of its FlexBook reads as follows:

Encased in rich and luxuriant leather-based, the 13” FlexBook is a subsequent expertise versatile capsule/laptop computer laptop duo that captures the supreme consolation of a lightweight capsule plus the usability and effectivity of a mini PC. When separated, the OLED capsule choices a super, zero gap “lay flat hinge” so client is free to fold in half for simple mobility and safekeeping, then flip open like a e e book to place in writing with the stylus over its absolute no image loss show. Join capsule onto the keyboard and instantly flip FlexBook proper right into a compact laptop computer laptop good for mounted location work. This could be a modern-day marriage between stationary and cell work in mannequin.

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Sources: iF World Design Data, Liliputing