Using nanotechnology, researchers from Nokia Research Center and University of Cambridge have found out how to allow a cellphone to stretch and twist, so that a user can customize the way that his/her phone looks like. It demonstrates the ultimate functionality that nanotechnology might be capable of delivering: flexible materials, transparent electronics and self-cleaning surfaces. Dr. Bob Iannucci, Chief Technology Officer, Nokia, commented: "Nokia Research Center is looking at ways to reinvent the form and function of mobile devices; the Morph concept shows what might be possible".

For those that don't know, Morph is a Greek word meaning shape or form. If you look at the phone in the second picture, you will notice many Greek symbols.

Dr. Tapani Ryhanen, Head of the NRC Cambridge UK laboratory, Nokia, commented: "We hope that this combination of art and science will showcase the potential of nanoscience to a wider audience. The research we are carrying out is fundamental to this as we seek a safe and controlled way to develop and use new materials."

 

Professor Mark Welland, Head of the Department of Engineering's Nanoscience Group at the University of Cambridge and University Director of Nokia-Cambridge collaboration added: "Developing the Morph concept with Nokia has provided us with a focus that is both artistically inspirational but, more importantly, sets the technology agenda for our joint nanoscience research that will stimulate our future work together."

This type of nanotechnology is only expected to be integrated on devices in 7 years time, more research still has to be done and the technology community still has to see a prototype that embeds this flexibility.m

Source: Nokia