OPPO premieres a more in-depth trailer for its slidable phone's design and function at MWC Shanghai 2021

OPPO is confident that its X 2021 concept device is superior to foldable phones, as the ability to choose an OLED display of anywhere from between 6.4 inches at the least to 7.4 inches at the most unlocks many more use-cases and possibilities. However, unlike phones such as the Galaxy Z Fold2, it is not supposed to bend in the slightest, and might stop working if it did.

Therefore, OPPO's latest teaser for the X 2021 is a more in-depth demonstration of how it can expand and retract over and over again without compromising its integrity. To this end, it has developed the Warp Track, a layer of "high-strength" steel that goes under the OLED panel. It is etched in a specific pattern, and varies in thickness to 0.1mm at the least, in a manner that ensures the display on top stays as flat as possible.

The Warp Track wraps around round wheel-like components at either end of the X 2021. OPPO claims that its "extensive testing" has resulted in findings that an axis of 6.8mm across is the optimal size to keep the device in its best shape. They are supported in turn by the 2-in-1 plate, which forms an interlocking row of steel slats when the X is retracted, and reinforces it when the display extends.

This motion is achieved with OPPO's dual Roll Motors, which are strategically deployed along the 2-in-1 plate and extert a "constant force" on the display track to keep it rolling smoothly along its axes. However, despite all this new detail, the OEM has still given no hint as to when or if its slidable phone will hit the market.

It has presented it in its latest demo alongside the tagline 'This is the brand new OPPO X 2021 we designed for "you"'. That is somewhat encouraging for fans of novel mobile form factors, even if the "you" in question only defines those consumers lucky (and, in all probability, rich) enough to ever see one.

The Galaxy Z Fold2: closest thing to an OPPO X 2021 at present and on sale at Best Buy