The Android smartphone space has leaned heavily into foldables and, more recently, tri-fold concepts, but true experimentation seems to have slowed down. Before exiting the mobile market, LG Electronics was preparing something different — a rollable phone that, even years later, still feels like a glimpse into an alternate future.
The device, known as the LG Rollable, never officially launched, but a limited number of units were produced and distributed internally to employees. One of these rare devices has now surfaced in a detailed teardown by JerryRigEverything, offering one of the clearest looks yet at how the concept actually worked.
The surprise comes when the display expands. Instead of folding, the OLED panel rolls out from within the chassis using a motorized mechanism. A three-finger gesture triggers the expansion, transforming the phone into something closer to a compact tablet. It’s a seamless transition, and notably, it avoids one of the most persistent issues with foldables: the visible crease.
The rollable system relies on dual motors and a spring-based structure that carefully guides the flexible display as it expands and retracts. Rather than exposing the entire panel, part of the screen slides beneath a glass section on the back when not fully extended. That portion remains active, effectively acting as a secondary display. It can be used for selfie previews with the main camera, as well as widgets and quick interactions — a clever use of otherwise hidden screen real estate.
The teardown also highlights how refined the hardware was, especially considering its age. Despite being a prototype from around 2020, the device still functions, even after partial disassembly and reassembly. That level of durability is surprising given the complexity of the mechanism.
Of course, the concept wasn’t without compromises. Like most flexible displays of its time, the panel is made from plastic rather than glass, making it more vulnerable to scratches and pressure. Even a fingernail can leave marks, underscoring the durability challenges that still affect foldables today.
The broader context makes the LG Rollable even more interesting. LG Electronics exited the smartphone business in 2021, just as it was preparing to bring this device to market. Meanwhile, competitors shifted focus toward foldable designs. Samsung Electronics continues to dominate the foldable segment, while brands like OPPO have showcased rollable prototypes without committing to a commercial release.
via JerryRig