The technology industry remains a hotbed of innovation, with activity driven by computing power, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT) and the importance of technologies related to smart, portable, foldable computing devices and – devices is growing Flexible displays to improve user experience thanks to innovations in advanced materials. Over 3.6 million patents have been filed and granted in the technology industry in the last three years alone, according to GlobalData’s report on Technological Innovation: Foldable Computing Devices.
However, not all innovations are created equal, nor is there a steady upward trend. Instead, their evolution follows an S-shaped curve, reflecting their typical life cycle from early emergence, through accelerated adoption, to eventual stabilization and maturity.
It is important to recognize where a particular innovation is on this journey, particularly for those in the inception and acceleration stages, to understand its current level of adoption and likely future evolution and impact.
Over 300 innovations will shape the technology industry
According to GlobalData’s Technology Foresights, which plots the S-curve for the technology industry using innovation intensity models based on over 2.5 million patents, there are over 300 innovation areas that will shape the future of the industry.
In the emerging innovation phase, microphone beamforming, live betting and quantum dots are breakthrough technologies that are still in early stages of application and should be followed closely. Circuit design testing, smart contracts, and surround sound systems are some of the accelerating areas of innovation that are steadily increasing in adoption. Among the mature innovations, vehicle platooning, PCI power management, and wireless microphones are now well established in the industry.
Innovation S-curve for the technology industry
Foldable computing devices are a major area of innovation in technology
Foldable computing devices are electronic devices that can be folded up for easy storage when not in use. This includes laptops, tablets and smartphones, which are lightweight and portable, making them suitable for people who are constantly on the move.
GlobalData’s analysis also uncovers the companies at the forefront of each innovation area and assesses the potential reach and impact of their patenting activities across different applications and geographies. According to GlobalData, there are more than 50 companies, including technology vendors, established technology companies and emerging startups, engaged in the development and application of foldable computing devices.
Key players in foldable computing devices – a game-changing innovation in the tech industry
“Application Diversity” measures the number of different applications identified for each relevant patent and broadly divides companies into “niche” or “diversified” innovators.
“Geographical Scope” refers to the number of different countries in which each relevant patent is registered and reflects the breadth of intended geographic application, ranging from “global” to “local”.
Volume of patents related to foldable computing devices
Source: GlobalData Patent Analytics
Among the companies innovating in foldable computing devices, Samsung Group is the leading patent applicant. The company applied for and received a patent for the development of an electronic device consisting of a flexible display, a foldable housing and a flexible display placed on a surface of the housing.
Other well-known patent applicants in the field of foldable computing devices are Microsoft and Compal Electronics.
Geographically, Shenzhen Royole Technologies is at the top, followed by Royole and Kem Hong Kong. When it comes to variety of applications, Mitsubishi Electric is at the top, followed by Shin Zu Shing and Lianhong Art.
The foldable computing devices offer users a more versatile and flexible computing experience. They offer the convenience and portability of a mobile device combined with the power and functionality of a traditional computer. Collapsible units can also save space, making them a practical solution for those with limited workspace.
To better understand the key issues and technologies revolutionizing the tech industry, access GlobalData’s latest thematic research report on technology.
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GlobalData, the leading provider of industry information, provided the underlying data, research and analysis used in the preparation of this article.
GlobalData’s patent analysis tracks patent applications and grants from official offices around the world. Text analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into important subject areas and link them to specific companies in the world’s largest industries.
