Nokia announces Morph, a joint nanotechnology concept device, developed by Nokia Research Center (NRC) and the University of Cambridge (UK). The Morph concept was launched today alongside the "Design and the Elastic Mind" exhibition, on view from February 24 to May 12, 2008, at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. This exhibition offer a sneak peek at what to expect in the years to come.
Morph is a concept that demonstrates how future mobile devices might be stretchable and flexible, allowing the user to transform their mobile device into radically and flexible different shapes. It demonstrates the ultimate functionality that nanotechnology might be capable of delivering: flexible materials, transparent electronics and self-cleaning surfaces. "Nokia Research Center is looking at ways to reinvent the form and function of mobile devices; the Morph concept shows what might be possible" as commented by Dr. Bob Iannucci, Chief Technology Officer for Nokia.

Elements of Morph might be available to integrate into handheld devices within 7 years, though initially only at the high-end. However, nanotechnology may one day lead to low cost manufacturing solutions, and offers the possibility of integrating complex functionality at a low price.

Nanoscale technologies that will potentially create a world of radically different devices that open up an entirely new spectrum of possibilities. With this technology, you can wear your cell phone as a bracelet.

Fantastic Opportunities for Mobile Devices

The examples of Morph phone designs include a wrist phone and a translucent card that basically just consist of an interactive user interface. The ultimate functionality that Morph concept technologies might be capable to deliver:

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."

The partnership between Nokia and the University of Cambridge was announced in March, 2007 — an agreement to work together on an extensive and long term programme of joint research projects. NRC has established a research facility at the University’s West Cambridge site and collaborates with several departments — initially the Nanoscience Center and Electrical Division of the Engineering Department — on projects that, to begin with, are centered on nanotechnology.

Morph Concept Video

Watch the video here: