The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is an annual event where tech companies unveil their latest innovations, and CES 2021 was no different, even as it went virtual for the first time. Perhaps the most notable trend in the smartphone segment was the burgeoning evolution of screen technology—most prominently demonstrated by rollable phones.

Rollable phones are a marvel of modern engineering, with displays that can physically expand to offer a larger viewing area. LG set the stage with its LG Rollable phone, revealing a device that seemed like a regular smartphone at first glance but could extend its screen outward from both edges, transforming into a small tablet. While details on the LG Rollable’s specifications are scarce, its appearance created an undeniable buzz around the future shape of smartphones.

Not to be outdone, TCL also teased a rollable phone concept of their own. Their take involves a sliding mechanism that likewise shifts the device from a traditional smartphone size to a more expansive display. These innovative form factors address consumers’ demand for larger screens without sacrificing portability.

On the more conventional side of things, Samsung made waves with their new Galaxy S21 lineup. The series introduced three models: the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra—a suite designed to cater to a range of preferences and budgets. The standout is certainly the Galaxy S21 Ultra, which not only offers compatibility with Samsung’s S Pen stylus but boasts an advanced camera system with a 108MP primary sensor and two telephoto lenses for versatile zoom capabilities.

Despite all eyes being on rollable phones and Samsung’s latest offerings, CES 2021 also highlighted other significant advancements in mobile technology. Innovations included better integration with smart home ecosystems, heightened focus on health and wellness applications, and improvements in battery technology offering longer life and faster charging.

While not every gadget unveiled at CES becomes a commercial success or even makes it to market, the show remains an exciting peek into tomorrow’s tech landscape. The phones of CES 2021 were no exception—offering us a glimpse into a future where our devices continue to become more versatile and interconnected. With rollable screens blurring the line between phone and tablet and powerhouse devices like the Galaxy S21 Ultra pushing mobile photography to new heights, we’re set for an intriguing year in mobile tech.