Samsung files trademark request for always-on displays

The unannounced LG G5 will apparently have an "always-on display", but the South Korean manufacturer may soon get into legal trouble with the "always-on" label as local rival Samsung is attempting to trademark the term through the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

The Class 9 trademark protection extends to computer and software applications - including those on smartphones and tablets - that manage, synchronize, and monitor the "always-on" screen to display time, date, weather, news, messages, appointments, personal health, and other real-time information.

Speculation remains as to how Samsung intends to exercise its patent. There is a possibility that the upcoming Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge could sport energy-saving AMOLED panels based on the "always-on" display feature.

Currently, smartphone displays must be powered on in order to show new messages, incoming and missed calls, and other notifications. Alternatively, a few smartphones like the recent LG V10 have small auxiliary displays dedicated for such notifications. An "always-on" display could potentially conserve more power than current displays whilst making it easier to view real-time updates.

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