Oppo has secured a patent in China for a foldable tablet with a book-style design. The patent document offers detailed illustrations of the device, showcasing its rounded corners and flexible folding mechanism. Targeted at business users and those seeking a portable entertainment device, the tablet appears to feature a USB Type-C port on one panel and a single external camera.
Oppo’s Foldable Tablet Patent: A Closer Look
The patent, registered as CN 309147396 S on the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) website, was submitted in June 2022 and approved earlier this month. It provides visual representations of the foldable tablet in three positions—fully folded, partially unfolded, and fully open.
According to the document, the device includes a power button on one edge and volume controls on the second folding panel. The absence of additional components on the second panel suggests a sleek and minimalist design. The tablet is notably slim, even when folded, with rounded edges that enhance grip and usability. Additionally, the hinge mechanism appears to minimize the gap between the folding panels when closed.
However, the patent filing does not confirm Oppo’s plans to launch the device commercially. While the company has not announced any official details, industry reports suggest that Apple is also working on a foldable tablet, potentially set for release next year.
