Samsung’s frameless screen concept and legacy of hole-free designs in smartphones

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Samsung Display has unveiled a bold concept that pushes the boundaries of smartphone design: a completely frameless All Around Full Screen that spans the entire front of the device. The concept envisions a display so immersive that it covers every inch of the front panel, leaving little to no bezel visible. A visual representation circulated on Chinese social media, highlighting the idea as part of a formal presentation by Samsung. This vision positions the screen as the dominant feature of the phone, redefining how users interact with their devices during everyday tasks such as watching videos, browsing, and messaging.

The circulating image suggests the design would retain essential audio and input functions, with openings for the microphone and speaker clearly visible. Notably, there is no visible charging port in the depiction, hinting at a potential shift toward wireless charging or other unconventional power delivery methods in future models. If adopted, this approach could simplify the device’s exterior while encouraging new charging ecosystems and accessories that support seamless power transfer without physical connectors.

Beyond the absence of bezels, the concept hints at an interface that extends to the sides, where the edges themselves could serve as functional controls. Instead of traditional physical buttons, users might adjust volume and brightness through interactive on-screen elements or pressure-sensitive regions integrated into the side surfaces. This approach would align with a broader trend toward immersive, edge-centric interactions that leverage liquid-crystal or micro-LED technologies to deliver tactile feedback and intuitive control without cluttering the device with hardware.

As of now, there is no official release date or timeline for when such a smartphone might reach consumers. The concept remains a forward-looking exploration of how display technology could evolve, prompting questions about durability, heat management, and user experience in devices that maximize screen real estate while minimizing traditional external features.

Looking back, similar explorations have appeared in the past. In 2019, a notable example came from the Chinese company Meizu, which introduced a vision called Zero. This concept proposed a phone devoid of holes and buttons, featuring an all-metal body and no charging port, SIM card slot, or speaker. Although it generated significant buzz, the Zero did not become a market product, underscoring the practical challenges of translating such ambitious ideas into mass-market devices. The Meizu concept serves as a reference point for designers and engineers considering how to reconcile a fully uninterrupted front with the essential functions users rely on every day.

Meanwhile, industry chatter continues about the next generation of flagship devices. Speculation around Apple devices has also focused on power delivery, with expectations that future iPhones could support rapid charging advancements. While the specifics vary, the general trend points toward faster, more convenient charging experiences that keep pace with ever-more demanding apps and media consumption. Engineers and product teams are weighing the trade-offs between raw charging speed, battery longevity, and the practical realities of consumer usage patterns as they plan new generations of smartphones.

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