Scientists from South Korea have made a breakthrough in the field of flexible electronics by creating an OLED display capable of not only changing shape without mechanical components but also producing sound. The team developed an ultra-thin panel based on a piezoelectric polymer actuator. This material responds to electrical signals, allowing the display to take on complex shapes — from waves and S-curves to convex forms. No hinges, motors, or sliders are needed for these transformations, preserving the device's minimalist profile.
The key feature of this technology is its multifunctionality. The same actuator that enables shape-shifting also turns the OLED surface into a fully functional speaker when exposed to high-frequency pulses. Polymer vibrations create sound waves, eliminating the need for a separate audio system. Researchers have already tested the technology on a panel the size of a smartphone. In demonstrations, the screen dynamically flexed while delivering clear audio, maintaining its flexibility and a thickness of less than a millimeter.
This innovation opens the door for devices that adapt to the user:
According to the developers, the technology is ready for industrial integration. Now it’s up to gadget manufacturers to turn this scientific breakthrough into a market reality. Interestingly, despite weighing less than 10 grams, such a screen could become the foundation for wearable devices that don’t even need charging — the actuator's power consumption is comparable to a standard touch layer.