Samsung Electronics Secures License to Korean Patent on Enhanced Selfie Camera

Center-rear Camera Placement Focuses on Natural Self-Portraits

(Source: https://www.samsung.com/latin_en/support/mobile-devices/a-look-at-the-under-display-camera-udc-on-the-galaxy-z-fold4-and-fold5/)

By PatenTrip

Samsung Electronics has secured a non-exclusive license for a South Korean patent aimed at improving smartphone selfie accuracy. The patent, titled "Self-photographing Device for Cellphone And Method for Controlling the Same" (KR2036204), centers on relocating the front-facing camera from its conventional position at the top or side of the display panel to the center-rear of the display.

Under the terms set in November 2024, the license covers the period from June 2023 to June 2038. According to the patent holder, integrating this technology will enable users to view the display panel while shooting videos or taking selfies, thus eliminating the misalignment between the user's gaze and the lens that often results in awkward poses.

Currently, most smartphone front-facing cameras are positioned near the top center or along the side of the display panel. This traditional placement means that when users look at the display, they often do not look directly at the lens, or conversely, when looking directly at the lens, they cannot see the screen. With the proposed shift to a center-rear display location, users could potentially monitor their appearance in real time while capturing selfies.

No commercial applications of the patent have been reported to date.

Figures from the patent titled "Self-photographing Device for Cellphone And Method for Controlling the Same" (KR2036204) (Source: KIPRIS)

It is speculated that the technology in question represents a precursor to the current under-display camera (UDC) systems deployed in smartphones. On its website, Samsung Electronics outlines the operational principles of the UDC, explaining that the technology reduces screen pixel density to allow increased light penetration, thereby ensuring proper camera functionality.

It is expected that enhancements to Samsung's existing UDC technology will be necessary before the company can effectively integrate the newly licensed patent into its product lineup. 

By PatenTrip