Japan Display Inc. (JDI) is using a plastic substrate to create a flexible LCD. The product is called Full Active Flex and uses the plastic substrate on both sides of its liquid crystal layer. It currently comes in a 5.5-in HD display and is tipped for use in smart phones. However the development is expected to be used in other devices and products.
The company says that by using plastic substrates instead of glass, it is possible to prevent cracking from occurring when the display is dropped.
It has also incorporated its low-frequency driving technology so the product supports a normal 60Hz driving scheme as well as one as low as 15Hz in an effort to decrease of power consumption for mobile devices.
JDI is planning to start mass production of this display in 2018 but it remains to be seen when it will be incorporated into other devices. One of the biggest hurdles manufacturers face is creating flexible electronics and batteries.
Other applications for the product include notebook PCs and automotive applications.