Multi-Fineline Electronix (MFLEX), a provider of printed circuit and component assembly products, has revealed that its Morphpad technology has been integrated into the Toshiba Biblio ebook reader mobile phone.
MFLEX said that the consumer device features a touch screen with a slide-out keyboard using the Morphpad display as a numeric keypad in the portrait orientation that automatically morphs into a full QWERTY keypad in landscape mode.The company claims that with an integrated lighting system, the Morphpad display consumes low power, is visible in all lighting conditions and from wide viewing angles.
Morphpad displays can use various colours, set on a black background, providing high contrast and visual impact using SmartInk technology, MFLEX added.
Reza Meshgin, chief executive officer at MFLEX, said: “Toshiba’s adoption of our Morphpad display is a testament to MFLEX’s innovation in consumer technology devices. It’s an honour to partner with such a prestigious brand that shares our goals of enhancing the consumer experience.”
Earlier in December 2008, MFLEX acquired Pelikon, a privately-held technology company focused on the development of Morphpad displays, SmartInk technology and drive electronics. Reportedly, the SmartInk technology enables ‘morphing’ or reconfigurable keypads and animation effects on virtually any consumer product.
Matt Wolk, vice president of corporate development and chief strategy officer at MFLEX, said: “We’ve developed a technology that enhances the user interface and operation of smartphones and other electronic devices. By morphing the Biblio keypad for multiple applications, the user now has maximum flexibility and ease of use.”