IBM Patented a Goofy-Looking Watch That Folds Into a Tablet

Finally, my "Spy Kids" cosplay is complete.

Spy Dude

IBM just patented an extremely goofy-looking take on the smartwatch: its touch-screen display unfolds to form a full-sized tablet while strapped to your wrist.

The device, which is described as "an electronic display device configured for variable display size" according to last month's patent, takes foldable devices to a whole new level with its 8x increase in size from watch mode to tablet mode. However, per Tom's Guide, there's no mention of how the repeatedly-folding touchscreen is supposed to work without cracking or peeling like all those smartphones did.

Thinking Ahead

IBM may never build its bizarre, "Spy Kids"-reminiscent folding watch — Tom's Guide predicts that the company will continue to focus on other areas like artificial intelligence or quantum tech. It's also possible that the company decided that holding onto the legal rights for a repeatedly-folding display could be valuable down the road.

It's also unclear who exactly needs a spring-loaded tablet on their wrist at all times. We're also no sure how such a device would be more useful than existing alternatives — unless you're a restaurant server who needs access to a tray at the ready.

READ MORE: IBM Patents a Watch That Unfolds Into a Full Tablet [Tom's Guide]

More on foldable displays: Review Units of Samsung's Folding Phone Are Breaking Almost Immediately