TCL has a concept smartphone that can be folded into a smartwatch

TCL has filed a patent application showing a concept of a smartphone that can be folded over like a smartwatch. The company had already indicated that it was interested in foldable smartphones, but clear plans were not yet known.

The company itself has not publicized the plans extensively, but the plans can be read from a patent application. Cnet discovered the plans and also managed to get their hands on renders of the foldable smartphones. One of those images shows that TCL is considering whether users will fold their smartphone in such a way that it can be worn on the wrist. In total, TCL would be working on about five foldable devices, including two tablets, according to Cnet.

Whether the folding smartphones shown will actually come to the market remains unclear. Although TCL itself has already indicated that it is working on a smartphone that can be folded, not all products described in patent applications are actually released. Cnet also states that TCL can still adjust or cancel its plans. TCL itself has not responded to the reporting.

TCL is mainly known in Europe for its BlackBerry smartphones. The company has a license on the brand and is therefore allowed to sell smartphones under this name.