Intel and Samsung are gearing up to launch a swipe-to-stretch PC form factor

Core tip: Samsung Display and Intel are working on "slidable" PCs. During Intel's innovation keynote today, Samsung Display CEO JS Choi took to the stage and showed off a prototype computer that could stretch from a 13-inch tablet to a 17-inch monitor.
Samsung Display and Intel are working on "slidable" PCs. During Intel's innovation keynote today, Samsung Display CEO JS Choi took to the stage and showed off a prototype computer that could stretch from a 13-inch tablet to a 17-inch monitor.
We're announcing the world's first 17-inch slideable PC display," Choi said. "This device will meet every need for a larger screen and portability. "Samsung Display chose to implement sliding (instead of foldable) technology for its flexible PC displays, and he also said that "the foldable form factor will eventually disappear" on PCs currently.

Intel has been experimenting with new PC form factors for years, initially preparing for a dual-screen and foldable future before Microsoft abandoned plans to use Windows 10X on foldable PCs. These types of new form factors desperately need software and apps to work together to make them shine, and it's unclear how Intel will make slidable PCs a reality.

The prototype device shown by Samsung Display and Intel today essentially turns a 13-inch tablet into a 17-inch display, complete with a flexible display and a sliding mechanism. Intel also showed off its new Unison software on this display, which is designed to connect Intel-powered computers with smartphones -- including the iPhone.

The swipeable PC itself is just a concept at the moment, and Intel or Samsung Display have not said when it will become a reality.