Electronic device and method for enabling a fingerprint sensor

Abstract

In various embodiments, at least a portion of a bendable electronic device can include at least one input device in which a fingerprint sensor is disposed, a memory, and a processor, and the processor can be operatively connected to the at least one input device and the memory. The processor can be configured to: detect a user input through the at least one input device based on the fingerprint sensor being in a deactivated state; identify at least one specific function stored in the memory in response to the detected user input; activate the fingerprint sensor based on the identified at least one specific function being a function requiring user authentication; perform user authentication corresponding to the user input using the activated fingerprint sensor; and control the electronic device to perform the at least one specific function corresponding to the user input when the user authentication is successful.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an electronic device and method for enabling a fingerprint sensor. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of electronic technology, various flexible electronic devices are being developed. For example, flexible electronic devices can be realized by using a plastic film instead of the glass substrate surrounding the liquid crystal in traditional liquid crystal displays (LCDs) or organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), thereby providing displays that are flexible and can be folded or unfolded. Furthermore, flexible electronic devices may have a housing capable of being at least partially folded or unfolded.

[0003] With the commercial availability of such flexible (including foldable, bendable, or rollable) electronic devices, new interface technologies for these devices are being researched using the bending or folding properties of flexible displays. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues

[0005] Flexible electronic devices can be at least partially folded and operate in both a folded and unfolded state. In the folded state, flexible electronic devices are easy to carry and store in a small size. In the unfolded state, flexible electronic devices have a larger display screen, thus improving user visibility.

[0006] A flexible electronic device may include an input device (e.g., a button) with a fingerprint sensor for performing user authentication and which is at least partially exposed to the outside. When such a flexible electronic device is folded and thus has a reduced size, user touch input may frequently occur via the fingerprint sensor included in the input device. Therefore, it is possible for the fingerprint sensor to malfunction in response to such user touch input.

[0007] Solution to the problem

[0008] According to various example embodiments of this disclosure, an electronic device, at least a portion of which is flexible, may include at least one input device in which a fingerprint sensor is disposed, a memory, and a processor, wherein the processor is operatively connected to the at least one input device and the memory. The processor may be configured to: detect user input via the at least one input device based on the fingerprint sensor being in a deactivated state; identify at least one specific function stored in the memory in response to the detected user input; enable the fingerprint sensor based on the identified at least one specific function being a function requiring user authentication; perform user authentication corresponding to the user input using the enabled fingerprint sensor; and, upon successful user authentication, control the electronic device to perform the at least one specific function corresponding to the user input.

[0009] According to various example embodiments of this disclosure, a method of operating an electronic device in which at least a portion is flexible may include: detecting user input via at least one input device, wherein the at least one input device is provided with a fingerprint sensor in a deactivated state; identifying at least one specific function corresponding to the detected user input in response to the user input; enabling the fingerprint sensor based on the fact that the identified at least one specific function is a function requiring user authentication; performing user authentication corresponding to the user input using the enabled fingerprint sensor; and performing at least one specific function corresponding to the user input when user authentication is successful.

[0010] Beneficial effects of the present invention

[0011] Embodiments of this disclosure provide an electronic device and method for activating a deactivated fingerprint sensor in response to user input and for user authentication via the fingerprint sensor.

[0012] According to various example embodiments of this disclosure, in an electronic device with a deactivated fingerprint sensor, the fingerprint sensor can be switched from a deactivated state to an activated state in response to an input. That is, in response to an input, the electronic device can activate the fingerprint sensor to perform user authentication and can also perform at least one specific function. Therefore, user authentication and at least one specific function can be performed substantially simultaneously with a single input, which can improve user convenience. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0014] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating example electronic devices in a network environment according to various embodiments;

[0015] Figure 2a This is a front perspective view showing the unfolded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments;

[0016] Figure 2b This is a plan view showing the front surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments;

[0017] Figure 3a This is a perspective view showing the folded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments;

[0018] Figure 3b This is a plan view showing the rear surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments;

[0019] Figure 3c This is a front perspective view showing the intermediate state of an electronic device according to various embodiments;

[0020] Figure 3d This is a perspective view showing a display of an electronic device in a folded state according to various embodiments;

[0021] Figure 3e This is a cross-sectional view showing a key input device having a fingerprint sensor at least partially disposed according to various embodiments;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device according to various embodiments;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating example methods for enabling a deactivated fingerprint sensor in an electronic device according to various embodiments;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating example methods for determining the activation or deactivation of a fingerprint sensor based on the folded or unfolded state of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating example operations in an electronic device, according to various embodiments, of activating a fingerprint sensor in response to user input and acquiring fingerprint information corresponding to the user input;

[0026] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method, according to various embodiments, for determining display information related to at least one specific function for a display based on the input direction of a fingerprint image detected by a fingerprint sensor; and

[0027] Figure 9This is a diagram illustrating example operations of enabling at least one display based on the input direction of a fingerprint image detected by a fingerprint sensor, according to various embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0030] Reference Figure 1 In network environment 100, electronic device 101 can communicate with electronic device 102 via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or with electronic device 104 or server 108 via a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). Electronic device 101 can communicate with electronic device 104 via server 108. According to embodiments, electronic device 101 may include processor 120, memory 130, input device 150, sound output device 155, display device 160, audio module 170, sensor module 176, interface 177, haptic module 179, camera module 180, power management module 188, battery 189, communication module 190, user identification module (SIM) card 196, or antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., display device 160 or camera module 180) may be omitted from electronic device 101, or one or more other components may be added to electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of the components may be implemented as a single integrated circuit. For example, the sensor module 176 (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented as embedded in the display device 160 (e.g., a display).

[0031] Processor 120 may run software (e.g., program 140) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of electronic device 101 connected to processor 120, and may perform various data processing or calculations. As at least part of the data processing or calculations, processor 120 may load commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 176 or communication module 190) into volatile memory 132, process the commands or data stored in volatile memory 132, and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory 134. Processor 120 may include a main processor 121 (e.g., central processing unit (CPU) or application processor (AP)) and an auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., graphics processing unit (GPU), image signal processor (ISP), sensor hub processor, or communication processor (CP)) that is operationally independent of or combined with the main processor 121. Additionally or alternatively, auxiliary processor 123 may be adapted to consume less power than main processor 121, or may be adapted for a specific function. The auxiliary processor 123 can be implemented separately from the main processor 121, or it can be implemented as part of the main processor 121.

[0032] When the main processor 121 is inactive (e.g., in sleep mode), the auxiliary processor 123 may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device 101 (other than the main processor 121) (e.g., display device 160, sensor module 176, or communication module 190), or when the main processor 121 is active (e.g., running an application), the auxiliary processor 123 may work with the main processor 121 to control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., display device 160, sensor module 176, or communication module 190). The auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., ISP or CP) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., camera module 180 or communication module 190) functionally associated with the auxiliary processor 123.

[0033] Memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component of electronic device 101 (e.g., processor 120 or sensor module 176). The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., program 140) and input or output data for commands associated with it. Memory 130 may include volatile memory 132 or non-volatile memory 134. Non-volatile memory 134 may include internal memory 136 and / or external memory 138.

[0034] The program 140 may be stored as software in the memory 130, and the program 140 may include, for example, an operating system (OS) 142, middleware 144, or application 146.

[0035] Input device 150 can receive commands or data from outside electronic device 101 (e.g., a user) for use by other components of electronic device 101 (e.g., processor 120). Input device 150 may include, for example, a microphone, mouse, keyboard, or digital pen (e.g., stylus). Input device 150 may include physical keys for at least partially controlling electronic device 101. For example, input device 150 may include volume keys for controlling audio volume levels and specific keys for executing at least one program (e.g., Bixby).

[0036] The sound output device 155 can output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output device 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as playing multimedia or playing records, and the receiver can be used for incoming calls. The receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0037] Display device 160 can visually provide information to the outside of electronic device 101 (e.g., to a user). Display device 160 may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and control circuitry for controlling a respective one of the display, holographic device, and projector. Display device 160 may include touch circuitry adapted to detect touch or sensor circuitry (e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure the intensity of the force caused by touch.

[0038] The audio module 170 can convert sound into electrical signals and vice versa. The audio module 170 can obtain sound via the input device 150, or output sound via the sound output device 155 or headphones of an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102) that is directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101.

[0039] Sensor module 176 can detect the operating state of electronic device 101 (e.g., power or temperature) or the environmental state outside electronic device 101 (e.g., user state), and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. Sensor module 176 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0040] Interface 177 may support one or more specific protocols used to enable direct (e.g., wired) or wireless connection between electronic device 101 and external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102). Interface 177 may include, for example, a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a Secure Digital Card (SD) interface, or an audio interface.

[0041] Connection end 178 may include a connector, through which electronic device 101 can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102). Connection end 178 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0042] The haptic module 179 can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or motion) or electrical stimuli that can be recognized by a user through his touch or kinesthesia. The haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0043] Camera module 180 can capture still or moving images. Camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes. According to an embodiment, camera module 180 may include a front-facing camera disposed on the front surface of electronic device 101 and a rear-facing camera disposed on the rear surface of electronic device 101.

[0044] The power management module 188 manages the power supply to the electronic device 101. The power management module 188 may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0045] Battery 189 can power at least one component of electronic device 101. Battery 189 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable rechargeable battery, or a fuel cell.

[0046] Communication module 190 can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel between electronic device 101 and external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108), and perform communication via the established communication channel. Communication module 190 may include one or more communication processors capable of operating independently of processor 120 (e.g., AP), and support direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication. Communication module 190 may include wireless communication module 192 (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or wired communication module 194 (e.g., local area network (LAN) communication module or power line communication (PLC) module). One of these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct, or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) standard or a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a cellular network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a wide area network (WAN))). These various types of communication modules can be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip) or as multiple components (e.g., multiple chips) that are separate from each other. The wireless communication module 192 can identify and verify the electronic device 101 in the communication network (such as the first network 198 or the second network 199) using user information (e.g., the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) stored in the SIM 196.

[0047] Antenna module 197 can transmit or receive signals or power to or from the outside of electronic device 101 (e.g., external electronic device). Antenna module 197 may include an antenna comprising a radiating element formed of a conductive material or conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). Antenna module 197 may include multiple antennas. In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication scheme used in a communication network (such as a first network 198 or a second network 199) can be selected from the multiple antennas by, for example, communication module 190 (e.g., wireless communication module 192). Signals or power can then be transmitted or received between communication module 190 and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. Additional components besides the radiating element (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally incorporated into antenna module 197.

[0048] At least some of the aforementioned components can be interconnected and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) between them via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., bus, general purpose input / output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industrial processor interface (MIPI)).

[0049] Commands or data can be sent or received between electronic device 101 and external electronic device 104 via server 108 connected to the second network 199. Each of electronic device 102 and electronic device 104 can be a device of the same type as electronic device 101, or a device of a different type. All or some operations that will run on electronic device 101 can be run on one or more of external electronic devices 102, external electronic devices 104, or server 108. For example, if electronic device 101 is to automatically perform a function or service or should perform a function or service in response to a request from a user or another device, electronic device 101 may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a portion of the function or service instead of running the function or service, or electronic device 101 may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a portion of the function or service in addition to running the function or service. Upon receiving the request, the one or more external electronic devices may perform at least a portion of the requested function or service, or perform additional functions or services related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to electronic device 101. Electronic device 101 may provide the result as at least a partial response to the request, either with further processing or without further processing. For this purpose, technologies such as cloud computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing may be used.

[0050] Figure 2a This is a front perspective view showing the unfolded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments. Figure 2b This is a plan view showing the front surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments. Figure 3a This is a perspective view showing the folded state of an electronic device according to various embodiments. Figure 3b This is a plan view showing the rear surface of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to various embodiments. Figure 3c This is a front perspective view showing an intermediate state of an electronic device according to various embodiments. Figure 3d This is a perspective view showing a display of an electronic device in a folded state according to various embodiments. Figure 3e This is a cross-sectional view showing a key input device having a fingerprint sensor at least partially disposed, according to various embodiments.

[0051] Reference Figure 2a , Figure 2b , Figure 3a , Figure 3b , Figure 3c , Figure 3d and Figure 3e The electronic device 101 may include a pair of housings (e.g., foldable housings), such as a first housing 210 and a second housing 220, which are rotatably coupled to each other and based on a hinge module 240 (see Figure 3a The electronic device 101 can be folded so that they face each other. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include a flexible display 400 (e.g., a foldable display) disposed in the area formed by a pair of housings 210 and 220. According to an embodiment, the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are disposed on both sides about a folding axis (shown as axis A) and may have a generally symmetrical shape about the folding axis. According to an embodiment, the angle or distance between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 may vary depending on whether the electronic device 101 is in an unfolded (or flat) state, a folded state, or an intermediate state.

[0052] According to various embodiments, the pair of housings 210 and 220 may include a first housing 210 (or a first housing structure) connected to the hinge module 240 and a second housing 220 (or a second housing structure) connected to the hinge module 240. According to an embodiment, the first housing 210 may have a first surface 211 facing a first direction (e.g., the front direction, such as the z-axis direction) in the unfolded state, and a second surface 212 opposite to the first surface 211 and facing a second direction (e.g., the back direction, such as the negative z-axis direction) in the unfolded state. According to an embodiment, the second housing 220 may have a third surface 221 facing the first direction in the unfolded state, and a fourth surface 222 opposite to the third surface 221 and facing the second direction in the unfolded state. According to an embodiment, the first surface 211 of the first housing 210 and the third surface 221 of the second housing 220 face the same first direction in the unfolded state and face each other in the folded state. According to an embodiment, the second surface 212 of the first housing 210 and the fourth surface 222 of the second housing 220 face the same second direction in the unfolded state and face opposite directions in the folded state.

[0053] According to various embodiments, the first housing 210 may include a first side frame 213 that at least partially forms a side surface of the electronic device 101, and a first back cover 214 that is coupled to the first side frame 213 and forms at least a portion of a second surface 212 of at least one electronic device 101. According to embodiments, the first side frame 213 may have a first side portion 213a, a second side portion 213b extending from one end of the first side portion 213a, and a third side portion 213c extending from the other end of the first side portion 213a. According to embodiments, the first side portion 213a, the second side portion 213b, and the third side portion 213c of the first side frame 213 may form three sides of a quadrilateral (e.g., a square or a rectangle).

[0054] According to various embodiments, the second housing 220 may include a first side frame 223 that at least partially forms a side surface of the electronic device 101, and a second rear cover 224 that is coupled to the second side frame 223 and forms at least a portion of a fourth surface 222 of at least one electronic device 101. According to embodiments, the second side frame 223 may have a fourth side portion 223a, a fifth side portion 223b extending from one end of the fourth side portion 223a, and a sixth side portion 223c extending from the other end of the fourth side portion 223a. According to embodiments, the fourth side portion 223a, the fifth side portion 223b, and the sixth side portion 223c of the second side frame 223 may form three sides of a quadrilateral (e.g., a square or a rectangle).

[0055] According to various embodiments, the housings 210 and 220 are not limited to the shape, structure, and configuration illustrated, and can be implemented in any other shape, structure, and configuration. For example, the first side frame 213 may be integrally formed with the first rear cover 214, and the second side frame 223 may be integrally formed with the second rear cover 224.

[0056] According to various embodiments, when the electronic device 101 is in the unfolded state, the second side portion 213b of the first side frame 213 and the fifth side portion 223b of the second side frame 223 can be connected to each other without gap. Similarly, in the unfolded state, the third side portion 213c of the first side frame 213 and the sixth side portion 223c of the second side frame 223 can be connected to each other without gap. Furthermore, in the unfolded state, the total length of the second side portion 213b and the fifth side portion 223b is greater than the length of each of the first side portion 213a and the fourth side portion 223a.

[0057] According to various embodiments, the first side frame 213 and the second side frame 223 may be made of metal or may further comprise a polymer injected into the metal. According to embodiments, the first side frame 213 and the second side frame 223 may include at least one conductive portion electrically segmented by at least one segmented portion formed of a polymer. In this case, the at least one conductive portion may be electrically connected to a wireless communication circuit included in the electronic device 101, thereby serving as an antenna operating in at least one specified frequency band (e.g., a conventional frequency band).

[0058] According to various embodiments, the first rear cover 214 and the second rear cover 224 may be made of coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS) or magnesium) or any combination thereof.

[0059] According to various embodiments, the flexible display 400 may be configured to extend from a first surface 211 of the first housing 210 across the hinge module 240 to at least a portion of a third surface 221 of the second housing 220. For example, the flexible display 400 may include a first flat portion 230a substantially corresponding to the first surface 211, a second flat portion 230b substantially corresponding to the second surface 221, and a bendable portion 230c connecting the first flat portion 230a and the second flat portion 230c and corresponding to the hinge module 240. According to embodiments, the electronic device 101 may include a first protective cover 215 (e.g., a first protective frame or a first decorative member) coupled to the edge of the first housing 210, and may also include a second protective cover 225 (e.g., a second protective frame or a second decorative member) coupled to the edge of the second housing 220. According to embodiments, the first protective cover 215 and the second protective cover 225 may be formed of a metallic or polymeric material. According to embodiments, the first protective cover 215 and / or the second protective cover 225 may serve as decorative members. According to an embodiment, the flexible display 400 can be positioned such that the edge of the first flat portion 230a is between the first housing 210 and the first protective cover 215. Similarly, the flexible display 400 can also be positioned such that the edge of the second flat portion 230b is between the second housing 220 and the second protective cover 225. Furthermore, the flexible display 400 can be positioned such that a protective cap disposed in the region corresponding to the hinge module 240 protects the corresponding edge of the flexible display 400. Therefore, substantially all edges of the flexible display 400 can be protected from external influences.

[0060] According to various embodiments, the electronic device 101 may also include a sub-display 231 disposed separately from the flexible display 400 (see [link]). Figure 3aAccording to an embodiment, the sub-display 231 can be configured to be at least partially exposed on the second surface 212 of the first housing 210. Therefore, in the folded state, the sub-display 231 can display status information of the electronic device 101 by replacing the display function of the flexible display 400. According to an embodiment, the sub-display 231 can be configured to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the first rear cover 214. In some embodiments, the sub-display 231 can be disposed on the fourth surface 224 of the second housing 220. In this case, the sub-display 231 can be configured to be visible from the outside through at least a portion of the second rear cover 224. According to an embodiment, the sub-display 231 can be configured to be fully exposed on the second surface 212 of the first housing 210, thereby improving user convenience.

[0061] According to various embodiments, the electronic device 101 may also include at least one of the following: a sound input device 203, sound output devices 201 and 202, a sensor module 204, a camera device 205 and 208, a key input device 206 and 230, or a connector port 207.

[0062] According to various embodiments, the voice input device 203 may include at least one microphone hole 203 disposed in the first housing 210. In some embodiments, the voice input device 203 may include a plurality of microphones configured to detect the direction of sound. In some embodiments, the plurality of microphones may be disposed at appropriate locations in the first housing 210 and / or the second housing 220. According to embodiments, the voice output devices 201 and 202 may include speakers 201 and 202. In embodiments, speakers 201 and 202 may include a call receiver 201 disposed in the first housing 210 and a speaker 202 disposed in the second housing 220. In some embodiments, the microphone 203, speakers 201 and 202, and connector port 207 may be disposed in the space provided to the first housing 210 and / or the second housing 220 and exposed to the external environment through at least one hole formed in the first housing 210 and / or the second housing 220. According to embodiments, at least one connector port 207 may be used to send power and / or data to and receive power and / or data from external electronic devices. In some embodiments, at least one connector port (e.g., a headphone jack) may accommodate a connector (e.g., a headphone plug) for transmitting and receiving audio signals to and from external electronic devices. In some embodiments, holes formed in the first housing 210 and / or the second housing 220 may be used together for the microphone 203 and speakers 201 and 202. In some embodiments, sound output devices 201 and 202 may include speakers (e.g., piezoelectric speakers) capable of operating without any holes formed in the first housing 210 and / or the second housing 220.

[0063] According to various embodiments, sensor module 204 can generate electrical signals or data values ​​corresponding to the internal operating state or external environmental state of electronic device 101. Sensor module 204 can detect the external environment through a first surface 211 of first housing 210. In some embodiments, electronic device 101 may further include at least one sensor module configured to detect the external environment through a second surface 212 of first housing 210. According to embodiments, sensor module 204 may be disposed below flexible display 400 to detect the external environment through flexible display 400. In various embodiments, sensor module 204 may include at least one of the following: gesture sensor, gyroscope sensor, barometric pressure sensor, magnetic sensor, accelerometer, grip sensor, color sensor, infrared (IR) sensor, biometric sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, proximity sensor, ultrasonic sensor, or illuminance sensor 204.

[0064] According to various embodiments, camera devices 205 and 208 may include a first camera device 205 (e.g., a front-facing camera device) disposed on a first surface 211 of the first housing 210 and a second camera device 208 (e.g., a rear-facing camera device) disposed on a second surface 212 of the first housing 210. In some embodiments, electronic device 101 may also include a flash 209 disposed near the second camera device 208. In some embodiments, camera devices 205 and 208 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, and / or image signal processors. Flash 209 may include, for example, a light-emitting diode or a xenon lamp. In some embodiments, the camera devices may be configured such that two or more lenses (wide-angle lenses, ultra-wide-angle lenses, and / or telephoto lenses) and image sensors are located near a surface of electronic device 101. In some embodiments, camera devices 205 and 208 may include a lens for time-of-flight (TOF) and an associated image sensor.

[0065] According to various embodiments, key input devices 206 and 230 (e.g., key buttons) may be disposed along a third side portion 213c of a first side frame 213 of the first housing 210. For example, key input devices 206 and 230 may include a first key input device 230 for executing at least one program (e.g., Bixby) and a second key input device 206 for controlling audio volume levels. In some embodiments, key input devices 206 and 230 may be disposed along at least one of other side portions 213a and 213b of the first housing 210 and / or side portions 223a, 223b, and 223c of the second housing 220. In some embodiments, electronic device 101 may not include some or all of the key input devices 206 and 230, and the excluded key input devices 206 and / or 230 may be implemented in any other form, such as as soft keys on the flexible display 400. In some embodiments, key input devices 206 and 230 may be implemented using pressure sensors included in the flexible display 400. According to various embodiments, key input devices 206 and 230 can be implemented using a fingerprint sensor for acquiring user fingerprint information. For example, the fingerprint sensor may be at least partially disposed in the first key input device 230 for executing at least one program. According to embodiments, the location of the fingerprint sensor is not limited to the first key input device 230. According to embodiments, the processor (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 can execute at least one program in response to user input to the first key input device 230, and also substantially simultaneously activates the fingerprint sensor. The activated fingerprint sensor can then acquire the user's fingerprint information corresponding to the user input.

[0066] According to various embodiments, the first camera device 205 and the sensor module 204 can be configured to be exposed through the flexible display 400. For example, the first camera device 205 and the sensor module 204 can be disposed within the internal space of the electronic device 101 and exposed to the external environment through openings (e.g., through-holes) formed in the flexible display 400. In embodiments, the sensor module 204 can be disposed within the internal space of the electronic device 101, so that it is not visually exposed through the flexible display 400. In this case, it is not necessary to open the area of ​​the flexible display 400 facing the sensor module.

[0067] Reference Figure 3c The electronic device 101 can be operated to maintain an intermediate state via the hinge module 240. In this case, the electronic device 101 can control the flexible display 400 to display different content in a display area corresponding to the first surface 211 and another display area corresponding to the third surface 221. According to an embodiment, at a specific angle (e.g., the angle between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 in the intermediate state), the electronic device 101 can operate continuously between an unfolded state and a folded state via the hinge module 240. For example, when a slight pressure is applied in the opening direction in the intermediate state of being partially unfolded at a specific angle, the electronic device 101 can continue to operate to enter a fully unfolded state via the hinge module 240. Furthermore, when a slight pressure is applied in the closing direction in the intermediate state of being partially unfolded at a specific angle, the electronic device 101 can continue to operate to enter a fully folded state via the hinge module 240. In some embodiments, the electronic device 101 can be operated to maintain an intermediate state at various angles via the hinge module 240.

[0068] Reference Figure 3d When the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are folded together, another display 232 can be disposed over the entire area corresponding to the second surface 212 of the first housing 210. According to an embodiment, when the electronic device 101 is in a folded state, the other display 232 can display various user interfaces by replacing the flexible display 400. This display 232 may include a touchscreen display and perform at least one function in response to touch-sensitive user input.

[0069] Reference Figure 3eIn electronic device 101, a first input device 230 may be disposed in the third side portion 213c of the first side frame 213 of the first housing 210. The first input device 230 may include, for example, a fingerprint sensor 401 for acquiring user fingerprint information, a dome button 301 for executing at least one program (e.g., Bixby), and a substrate 310 for processing signals corresponding to user input. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 of electronic device 101 may send a signal to the substrate 310 in response to user input to perform a function corresponding to the dome button 301. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 may acquire fingerprint information corresponding to user input via the fingerprint sensor 401 and transmit the acquired fingerprint information to the substrate 310. The fingerprint sensor 401 may acquire fingerprint information based on at least one of a capacitance scheme, an optical scheme, and / or an ultrasonic scheme. That is, the fingerprint sensor 401 may identify changes in capacitance, light intensity, and / or ultrasonic signals to acquire fingerprint information relating to a user touch input on the outer surface of the first input device 230. For example, electronic device 101 can use the light source of the display to measure the change in light intensity and, based on the measured change in light intensity, acquire fingerprint information corresponding to user input. According to some embodiments, fingerprint sensor 401 can acquire fingerprint information based on various methods other than those described above. According to embodiments, substrate 310 can be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (PCB) 315 of electronic device 101 and can send signals (e.g., information, data) received by fingerprint sensor 401 and dome button 301 to PCB 315. For example, PCB 315 disposed in the first housing can be a main PCB. According to embodiments, the first input device 230 can be at least partially supported by support member 320 of electronic device 101.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 401 can remain in an enabled or disabled state, and can acquire fingerprint information corresponding to user input in the enabled state. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can keep the fingerprint sensor 401 disabled in a folded state and can also keep the fingerprint sensor 401 enabled in an unfolded state. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can detect user input to the first input device 230 and, in response to the user input, switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a disabled state to an enabled state. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can perform at least one function corresponding to the dome button 301 in response to user input, and substantially simultaneously enable the fingerprint sensor 401 to perform a user authentication function corresponding to the user input.

[0071] Figure 4 This illustrates example electronic devices according to various embodiments (e.g., Figure 1 Block diagram of electronic device 101 in the middle.

[0072] Reference Figure 4 Electronic device 101 may include a processor (e.g., including processing circuitry) 120 (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 and memory 130 (e.g., Figure 1 The memory 130), input device (e.g., including input circuitry) 150 (e.g., Figure 1 Input device 150), display 160 (e.g., Figure 1 The display device 160), sensor module (e.g., including at least one sensor) 176 (e.g., Figure 1 The sensor module 176), and / or wireless communication circuit 190 (e.g., Figure 1 (Communication module 190 in the middle). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can switch the fingerprint sensor 401, which is at least partially disposed in the input device 150, from a deactivated state to an enabled state, and acquire the user's fingerprint information through the fingerprint sensor 401 in the enabled state.

[0073] According to an embodiment, processor 120 may include various processing circuits and execute programs stored in memory 130 (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 (processor 140) controls at least one of other components (e.g., hardware or software) and can perform data processing or operations. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 can perform user authentication by comparing first fingerprint information acquired by the fingerprint sensor 401 with second fingerprint information stored in the memory 130. For example, if the first and second fingerprint information are identical, the processor 120 can determine that user authentication was successful.

[0074] According to an embodiment, memory 130 may store user fingerprint information for user authentication. For example, the user's fingerprint information may include a fingerprint image and information about the input direction of the fingerprint image. Furthermore, memory 130 may store at least one function to be executed in response to user input to input device 150. For example, when a short input is detected to input device 150, processor 120 may enable at least one display. Furthermore, when a long input is detected to input device 150, processor 120 may switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a disabled state to an enabled state.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the input device 150 may include various input circuits and is configured to be at least partially exposed on the outer surface of the electronic device 101. A fingerprint sensor 401 may be at least partially disposed in the input device 150. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 may switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a deactivated state to an enabled state and acquire the user's fingerprint information through the enabled fingerprint sensor 401. The fingerprint sensor 401 may acquire fingerprint information based on at least one of capacitive, optical, or ultrasonic methods, for example. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 may identify the type of user input (e.g., short input, long input, dual input, and / or a combination of inputs using multiple buttons) through the input device 150. For example, when a long input is detected by the input device 150, the processor 120 may execute at least one specific function corresponding to the long input and may substantially simultaneously enable the fingerprint sensor 401 to perform a user authentication function corresponding to the user. According to an embodiment, in response to a single user input, the processor 120 may execute multiple functions (e.g., at least one specific function predefined to correspond to the user input and / or a user authentication function corresponding to the user input).

[0076] According to an embodiment, sensor module 176 may include various sensors, including, for example, gyroscope sensor 403 and / or accelerometer sensor 405. According to an embodiment, processor 120 may use gyroscope sensor 403 and / or accelerometer sensor 405 to identify the posture of electronic device 101. For example, processor 120 may check the degree of tilt (e.g., angle) of electronic device 101 based on up / down / left / right directions. According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 may include a first housing (e.g., Figure 2a The first housing 210) and the second housing (e.g., Figure 2aThe second housing 220 is located in the first housing 210. A main PCB can be disposed in the first housing 210, and a sub-PCB can be disposed in the second housing 220. A sub-PCB (printed circuit board) can be disposed. According to an embodiment, a gyroscope sensor 403 and / or an accelerometer sensor 405 can be disposed in each of the main PCB and the sub-PCB. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can use multiple sensors disposed in the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 to calculate its posture and folding angle. Sensing data (e.g., raw data) of the gyroscope sensor 403 and / or the accelerometer sensor 405 can be stored in the memory 130. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can measure the amount of change of multiple sensing values ​​corresponding to multiple sensors (e.g., gyroscope sensor 403 and / or accelerometer sensor 405) to calculate the posture of the electronic device 101. Then, based on the calculated posture, the electronic device 101 can determine the display 160 to be enabled. In addition, a hinge module (e.g., a hinge module) disposed between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 is provided. Figure 3a The hinge module 240 in the device 101 may include a specific sensor (e.g., a digital Hall integrated circuit (IC), not shown) that identifies the absolute angle of the electronic device 101 and corrects the angle value of the electronic device 101. For example, the sensor (e.g., the digital Hall IC) may include an angle sensing sensor and be implemented in the form of a flexible PCB (FPCB). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may use such a sensor (e.g., a digital Hall IC) to correct the sensed values ​​corresponding to its posture and angle. According to an embodiment, the sensor may include any other type of angle sensing circuit besides a digital Hall IC.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the display 160 may include a flexible display (e.g., Figure 3a The flexible display 400 is configured to be mounted from the first housing (e.g., Figure 2a The first surface of the first housing 210 in the first housing (e.g., Figure 2a The first surface 211) spans the hinge module (e.g., Figure 3a The hinge module 240 in the middle extends to the second housing (e.g., Figure 2a The third surface of the second step 220 in the middle (e.g., Figure 2a At least a portion of the third surface 221 in the first housing 210. According to an embodiment, the display 160 may include a second surface configured to be at least partially exposed in the first housing 210 (e.g., Figure 3a Sub-displays on the second surface 212 of the middle (e.g., Figure 3a (Sub-display 231 in the middle). According to an embodiment, display 160 may also include another display (e.g., sub-display 231 in the middle). Figure 3dThe display 232 is completely disposed on the second surface 212 of the first housing 210 or the fourth surface of the second housing 220 (e.g., Figure 3b On the fourth surface 222).

[0078] According to an embodiment, the wireless communication circuit 190 can connect electronic device 101 to another electronic device (e.g., Figure 1 Communication channels are established between electronic devices 102, 104, or 108 and communication is performed through these channels. For example, wireless communication circuit 190 can perform call connections or message sending and receiving between electronic device 101 and another electronic device.

[0079] According to various embodiments, processor 120 can receive user input via input device 150 and identify at least one function predefined as corresponding to the user input. When the identified function requires user authentication, processor 120 can switch the fingerprint sensor 401 included in input device 150 from a disabled state to an enabled state, and then acquire fingerprint information 401 corresponding to the user input via the fingerprint sensor. Processor 120 can perform user authentication based on the acquired fingerprint information, or execute at least one specific function after successful user authentication. According to embodiments, processor 120 can selectively enable display 160, including at least one display as described above, to display a user interface corresponding to at least one specific function.

[0080] According to an embodiment, the processor 120 can compare a first fingerprint image acquired by the fingerprint sensor 401 with a second fingerprint image stored in the memory 130 and determine the input direction of the first fingerprint image. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 can predict the user's gaze direction based on the input direction of the first fingerprint image, and then selectively activate at least one display corresponding to the user's gaze direction.

[0081] According to an embodiment, processor 120 can use the gyroscope sensor 403 and accelerometer sensor 405 included in sensor module 176 to identify the posture of electronic device 101. For example, processor 120 can check the tilt of electronic device 101 in the up / down / left / right direction. According to an embodiment, processor 120 can determine at least one display to be enabled based on the posture of electronic device 101. For example, processor 120 can predict the user's gaze direction based on the posture of electronic device 101 and selectively enable at least one display corresponding to the user's gaze direction. According to an embodiment, processor 120 can use a camera module (e.g., Figure 1 The camera module 179 in the middle detects the user's gaze direction, determines at least one display corresponding to the gaze direction, and enables the determined display.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the processor 120 can determine the user's gaze direction based on the posture of the electronic device 101 and / or the input direction of the fingerprint image acquired by the fingerprint sensor 401, and then can activate at least one display corresponding to the user's gaze direction. According to an embodiment, when performing at least one specific function, the processor 120 can display an execution screen for the at least one specific function on the activated display.

[0083] According to various example embodiments, at least a portion of the flexible electronic device 101 may include at least one input device 150 in which a fingerprint sensor 401 is disposed, a memory 130, and a processor 120 operatively connected to the at least one input device 150 and the memory 130. The processor 120 may be configured to: detect user input via the at least one input device 150 based on the fingerprint sensor being enabled; identify at least one specific function stored in the memory 130 in response to the detected user input; enable the fingerprint sensor 401 based on the fact that the identified at least one function requires user authentication; perform user authentication corresponding to the user input using the enabled fingerprint sensor 401; and control the electronic device to perform the at least one specific function corresponding to the user input upon successful user authentication.

[0084] According to an example embodiment, the electronic device 101 may further include a foldable housing, the foldable housing including: a hinge (e.g., Figure 3a The hinge module 240 in the middle); the first housing (e.g., Figure 2a The first housing structure 210 in the middle), the first housing is connected to the hinge and includes a first surface facing a first direction (e.g., Figure 2a The first surface 211) and the second surface facing the second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., Figure 3a The second surface 212 in the middle); and the second housing (e.g., Figure 2a The second housing structure 220 in the middle), the second housing is connected to the hinge and includes a third surface facing a third direction (e.g., Figure 2a The third surface 221) and the fourth surface facing the fourth direction opposite to the third direction (e.g., Figure 3b The second housing (211) is foldable about the first housing 210 around the hinge 240, with the fourth surface 222. In the folded state, the first surface 211 can face the third surface 221, and the third surface can be the same as the first surface in the unfolded state.

[0085] According to an example embodiment, the electronic device 101 may further include a sensor module 176, which includes at least one sensor configured to detect the unfolding angle of the foldable housing. The processor 120 may be configured to: identify the unfolding angle of the foldable housing via the sensor module 176, and switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a deactivated state to an enabled state based on the foldable housing exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0086] According to an example embodiment, the electronic device 101 may further include at least one display 160 disposed on a foldable housing. The processor 120 may be configured to: identify the input direction of a fingerprint image detected by the fingerprint sensor 401; identify the posture of the electronic device 101 based on the input direction of the fingerprint image; determine at least one display 160 based on the posture of the electronic device 101; and enable the determined at least one display 160.

[0087] According to an exemplary embodiment, the electronic device 101 may further include a gyroscope sensor 403 and an accelerometer sensor 405 configured to recognize the posture of the electronic device 101. The processor 120 may be configured to: recognize the posture of the electronic device 101 using the gyroscope sensor 403 and the accelerometer sensor 405, determine at least one display 160 based on the input direction of the fingerprint image and the posture of the electronic device 101, and enable the determined at least one display 160.

[0088] According to an example embodiment, the processor 120 may be configured to: identify the posture of the electronic device 101 by comparing a first fingerprint image stored in the memory 130 with a second fingerprint image detected by the fingerprint sensor 401; determine at least one display 160 to be enabled based on the identified posture; and enable the determined at least one display 160.

[0089] According to the example embodiment, the functions requiring user authentication may include functions performed using the user's personal information stored in the memory 130, and may include message sending / receiving functions, call sending / receiving functions, and payment-related functions.

[0090] According to an example embodiment, based on enabling the fingerprint sensor 401, the processor 120 can be configured to maintain the enabled state of the fingerprint sensor 401 for a predetermined time.

[0091] According to an example embodiment, a fingerprint sensor 401 may be disposed in at least one input device and configured to acquire fingerprint information corresponding to user input based on a capacitive, optical, or ultrasonic scheme.

[0092] According to an example embodiment, based on the fact that the first fingerprint information obtained using the fingerprint sensor 401 and the second fingerprint information stored in the memory 130 are identical, the processor 120 can be configured to determine that the user authentication was successful.

[0093] According to an example embodiment, memory 130 may store at least one specific function to be performed in response to user input.

[0094] Figure 5 This is a flowchart 500 illustrating an example method for enabling a fingerprint sensor in an electronic device that is in a deactivated state, according to various embodiments.

[0095] Reference Figure 5 In electronic devices (e.g., Figure 1 In the folded state of the electronic device 101, the fingerprint sensor (e.g., Figure 4 The fingerprint sensor 401 in the device can be in a deactivated state. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include components relative to a hinge module (e.g., Figure 3a The hinge module 240 in the device is a foldable electronic device capable of being folded. The fingerprint sensor 401 can be enabled when the electronic device 101 is in the unfolded state, and disabled when the electronic device 101 is in the folded state. According to an embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 401 can be at least partially disposed in the input device (e.g., Figure 1 Input device 150 in Figure 2a The first key input device 230 in Figure 2 or the second key input device 206 in Figure 2 can be used to obtain the user's fingerprint information in response to the user's touch input.

[0096] In operation 501, the processor of electronic device 101 (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 can detect user input via the first key input device 230, where a deactivated fingerprint sensor 401 is located in the first key input device 230. For example, user input may include a short input by briefly pressing the first key input device 230, a long input by pressing the first key input device 230 for a period of time, a double input by pressing the first key input device 230 twice, and / or any input based on a combination of the first key input device 230 and the second key input device 206. According to embodiments, user input may also include voice input using a microphone, such as command input based on the user's voice.

[0097] In operation 503, processor 120 can identify at least one specific function corresponding to the detected user input. According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 may have a plurality of predefined functions to correspond to different user input types. For example, when the user input is a short input, processor 120 may enable the display (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 can execute at least one specific function associated with the first key input device 230 when the user input is a short input. According to an embodiment, in response to user input, the processor 120 can identify at least one specific function predefined as corresponding to the first key input device 230.

[0098] In operation 505, processor 120 may determine whether at least one identified specific function is a function that requires user authentication. The function requiring user authentication may include functions used in memory (e.g., Figure 1 The functions performed are based on user personal information stored in the memory (130) in the memory. For example, functions requiring user authentication may include message sending / receiving functions, call sending / receiving functions, and / or functions that perform payment-related procedures (e.g., Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and / or Kakao Pay). On the other hand, functions that perform procedures that provide public information (e.g., weather, traffic conditions, and / or news) may not require user authentication.

[0099] When operation 505 determines that the identified function requires user authentication ("Yes" in operation 505), processor 120 can switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a disabled state to an enabled state in operation 507. For example, processor 120 can maintain the enabled state of fingerprint sensor 401 for a predetermined time. If the predetermined time has elapsed after fingerprint sensor 401 has been enabled, processor 120 can switch fingerprint sensor 401 to a disabled state. According to an embodiment, if the function to be performed requires user information, processor 120 can switch fingerprint sensor 401 from a disabled state to an enabled state, and then obtain user information (e.g., fingerprint information) corresponding to user input through the enabled fingerprint sensor 401.

[0100] In operation 509, processor 120 can use the enabled fingerprint sensor 401 to perform user authentication corresponding to user input. For example, processor 120 can use a light source to acquire a fingerprint image corresponding to user input, and then extract first fingerprint information from the acquired fingerprint image. Furthermore, processor 120 can compare the extracted first fingerprint information with second fingerprint information stored in memory 130 to determine whether the first fingerprint information and the second fingerprint information are the same. If the first fingerprint information and the second fingerprint information match, i.e., a predetermined standard is met (e.g., exceeding a reference value), then processor 120 can determine that user authentication is successful.

[0101] In operation 511, processor 120 can determine whether user authentication was successful. For example, processor 120 can set a reference value (e.g., similarity, matching value) for determining whether user authentication was successful, and can measure the similarity between the first fingerprint information corresponding to the user input and the second fingerprint information stored in memory 130. When the measured similarity exceeds the reference value, processor 120 can determine that user authentication corresponding to the user input was successful. If user authentication fails in operation 511 ("No" in operation 511), processor 120 can display the result on a display (e.g., ...). Figure 1 The processor 120 displays a message on the display device 160 for retrying user input. If user authentication fails in operation 511, the processor 120 may display a screen associated with another user authentication process (e.g., pattern, password) on the display device 160.

[0102] In operation 513, processor 120 can execute at least one specific function corresponding to user input. According to an embodiment, processor 120 can display information related to at least one specific function on display 160. For example, processor 120 can display an execution screen for at least one specific function on display 160.

[0103] According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 can configure the execution of the Bixby program to perform at least one specific function corresponding to user input. For example, when a long input is detected via the input device, the processor 120 of electronic device 101 can execute the Bixby program. If the Bixby program performs a function requiring user authentication, the processor 120 can substantially simultaneously enable the fingerprint sensor 401 while executing the Bixby program. According to an embodiment, in response to a user input, electronic device 101 can simultaneously execute the Bixby program and the user authentication function via the enabled fingerprint sensor 401. For example, when a short input is detected via the input device, the processor 120 can enable the display 160 and also keep the fingerprint sensor 401 disabled.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can change a specific function corresponding to a specific user input based on user settings. Furthermore, depending on the changed function, the activation or deactivation of the fingerprint sensor 401 can also be changed. For example, when the Bixby program is set, the activation of the fingerprint sensor 401 can be set simultaneously. Moreover, when the Bixby program setting is canceled, the activation of the fingerprint sensor 401 can also be canceled. For example, in response to a specific user input, the electronic device 101 can activate the fingerprint sensor 401 simultaneously with executing a pre-set specific program.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can be accessed via an audio module (e.g., Figure 1The audio module 170 receives the user's voice command and executes the Bixby program in response to the voice command. If at least one specific function corresponding to the voice command is a function that requires user authentication, the electronic device 101 can switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a disabled state to an enabled state.

[0106] According to various embodiments, in a folded state, the electronic device 101 can keep the fingerprint sensor 401 in a deactivated state to prevent fingerprint sensor malfunction. For example, the electronic device 101 can keep the fingerprint sensor 401 in a deactivated state in the folded state and can also keep the fingerprint sensor 401 in an activated state in the unfolded state. According to embodiments, the electronic device 101 can detect user input to at least one input device and then switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a deactivated state to an activated state. In response to user input, the electronic device 101 can identify at least one specific function corresponding to the user input and determine whether the at least one specific function is a function that requires user authentication. If it is determined that the at least one specific function requires user authentication, the electronic device 101 can acquire fingerprint information corresponding to the user input through the activated fingerprint sensor 401, and then execute at least one specific function based on the acquired fingerprint information.

[0107] According to various embodiments, in response to a user input, electronic device 101 can activate fingerprint sensor 401 and perform user authentication corresponding to the user input while performing at least one specific function corresponding to the user input. For example, in response to a user input, electronic device 101 can perform authentication functions for the user and substantially simultaneously perform at least one specific function corresponding to the user input. Therefore, electronic device 101 can perform multiple functions through a single user input, thereby improving user convenience. For example, through a touch input, the electronic device can not only perform user authentication functions but also perform specific functions intended by the user. According to various embodiments, because the activation of the fingerprint sensor is conditionally determined, specific functions requiring user authentication can be performed through a single user input without additional input. For example, the execution time of functions requiring user authentication can be shortened, improving user convenience.

[0108] Figure 6 This is a flowchart 600 illustrating example methods for determining the activation or deactivation of a fingerprint sensor based on the folded or unfolded state of an electronic device, according to various embodiments.

[0109] Reference Figure 6 Electronic devices (e.g.) Figure 1At least a portion of the electronic device 101 may be flexible and may include a foldable housing. For example, the electronic device 101 may be in a folded or unfolded state depending on whether the foldable housing is bent. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may be a rollable electronic device and may be placed in a rolled-up or unfolded state.

[0110] In operation 601, electronic device 101 can determine whether electronic device 101 is in a folded state. For example, electronic device 101 may include a first housing (e.g., Figure 2a The first housing 210) and the second housing (e.g., Figure 2a The first housing 210 and the second housing 220 are in the folded state, and the first surface 211 of the first housing 210 and the third surface 221 of the second housing 220 can face each other. When the electronic device 101 is in the unfolded state, the first surface 211 of the first housing 210 and the third surface 221 of the second housing 220 can face the same direction (e.g., the first direction, the front direction or the z-axis direction).

[0111] When it is determined in operation 601 that the electronic device 101 is in a folded state ("Yes" in operation 601), the processor (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 in the middle can, in operation 603, integrate the fingerprint sensor (e.g., Figure 4 The fingerprint sensor 401 in the device is switched to a disabled state. For example, the processor 120 can detect that the electronic device 101 changes from an unfolded state to a folded state, and in response to the detection result, the processor 120 can switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from an enabled state to a disabled state.

[0112] When it is determined in operation 601 that the electronic device 101 is not in a folded state (e.g., in an unfolded state) ("No" in operation 601), the processor 120 may switch the fingerprint sensor 401 to an enabled state in operation 605. For example, the processor 120 may detect that the electronic device 101 changes from a folded state to an unfolded state, and in response to this detection result, the processor 120 may switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a disabled state to an enabled state.

[0113] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may further include a sensor module (e.g., Figure 1 The sensor module 176 in the foldable housing detects the unfolding angle based on the curvature of the foldable housing. For example, the sensor module 176 can be a hinge module (e.g., Figure 3a The hinge module 240 in the middle is used as the axis to measure the unfolding angle between the first housing 210 and the second housing 220.

[0114] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can use the sensor module 176 to identify the unfolding angle. When the unfolding angle increases beyond a predetermined first threshold, the processor 120 can determine that the electronic device 101 has switched from a folded state to an unfolded state. Then, the processor 120 can switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from a deactivated state to an enabled state.

[0115] According to an embodiment, when the recognized unfolding angle decreases to below a first threshold, the processor 120 can determine that the electronic device 101 has switched from an unfolded state to a folded state. Then, the processor 120 can switch the fingerprint sensor 401 from an enabled state to a disabled state.

[0116] According to an embodiment, in Figure 5 In the operation 501 shown, the electronic device 101 can be in a folded state, and the fingerprint sensor 401 can be in a deactivated state.

[0117] According to embodiments, electronic device 101 may be a rollable or slidable electronic device, which may be in a first state corresponding to a folded state or a second state corresponding to an unfolded state. For example, the first state may be a state in which the display is rolled up and not exposed, while the second state may be a state in which the display is exposed. According to various embodiments, electronic device 101 is not limited to foldable electronic devices and may include any other electronic device capable of switching the fingerprint sensor between an enabled state and a disabled state in response to a change between the first state and the second state.

[0118] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating example operations in an electronic device, according to various embodiments, of activating a fingerprint sensor in response to user input and acquiring fingerprint information corresponding to the user input.

[0119] Reference Figure 7 Electronic devices (e.g.) Figure 1 The electronic device 101 in the middle is in a folded state, and the input device (e.g., for example, Figure 1 Input device 150 in Figure 2a The fingerprint sensor (e.g., the first key input device 230) is provided in the fingerprint sensor. Figure 4 The fingerprint sensor 401 in the middle can be kept in a disabled state.

[0120] In operation [a], the electronic device 101, in its folded state, can detect user input 710 to the first key input device 230. For example, the processor of the electronic device 101 (e.g., Figure 1The processor 120 in the device can detect user input 710 via the first key input device 230. User input 710 may include switching input. According to an embodiment, the first key input device 230 may also include a pressure sensor, which the electronic device 101 can use to detect the pressure corresponding to user input 710 and compare the detected pressure with a predetermined reference value to determine whether user input 710 has occurred. According to an embodiment, user input 710 may include a short input of pressing the first key input device 230 once, a long input of pressing the first key input device 230 for a certain period of time, and / or a double input of pressing the first key input device 230 twice consecutively. In addition, user input 710 may also include a combination of input using the first key input device 230 and the second key input device 206. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can detect user input 710 in various ways. According to an embodiment, in response to user input 710, the electronic device 101 can identify at least one specific function corresponding to user input 710. For example, if at least one specific function is identified as requiring user authentication (e.g., call sending / receiving function, message sending / receiving function, payment function, and / or financial-related function), electronic device 101 can activate the fingerprint sensor 401, which is at least partially located in the first key input device 230. When at least one specific function is identified as not requiring user authentication, electronic device 101 can keep the fingerprint sensor 401 in a deactivated state. As described above, because the activation of the fingerprint sensor is conditionally determined, in the folded state, specific functions requiring user authentication can be performed using biometric information (e.g., fingerprint) through a single user input without additional input. Therefore, the execution time of functions requiring user authentication can be shortened.

[0121] In operation [b], when at least one specific function is identified as requiring user authentication, electronic device 101 can switch the fingerprint sensor 401, at least partially disposed in the first key input device 230, from a deactivated state to an enabled state. Using the fingerprint sensor switched to the enabled state, electronic device 101 can obtain the user's fingerprint information from user input 710. In operation [b], when user authentication is successful based on the user's fingerprint information, electronic device 101 can display on a sub-display (e.g., Figure 2a The electronic device 101 displays one or more icons 701 and 703 on the sub-display 231 for performing specific functions based on user authentication. The electronic device 101 can then detect user input corresponding to icon 701 or 703 via the sub-display 231 and respond to the user input to connect to a telephone or send / receive messages.

[0122] According to various embodiments, in response to a user input, the electronic device can perform a user authentication function based on the user input when at least one specific function to be performed is a function that requires user authentication, and can substantially simultaneously perform at least one specific function corresponding to the user input.

[0123] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method, according to various embodiments, for determining display information for at least one display based on the input direction of a fingerprint image detected by a fingerprint sensor, for at least one specific function.

[0124] Reference Figure 8 Electronic devices (e.g.) Figure 1 The electronic device 101 in the middle can be in a folded state, an unfolded state, or an intermediate state. It is at least partially provided in the input device (e.g., Figure 1 The fingerprint sensor in the input device 150 (e.g., Figure 4 The fingerprint sensor 401 in the image can be enabled. When... Figure 5 When operation 513 is performed to perform at least one specific function, electronic device 101 can determine a display for displaying information related to at least one specific function.

[0125] In operation 801, the processor of electronic device 101 (e.g., Figure 1 The processor 120 can acquire a fingerprint image from user input via input device 160 (in which fingerprint sensor 401 is partially disposed) and the processor 120 can also identify the input direction of the acquired fingerprint image. For example, using a fingerprint sensor 401 based on capacitive, optical, or ultrasonic methods, the processor 120 can acquire a fingerprint image from user input and identify the input direction of the acquired fingerprint image. For example, the processor 120 can compare the first fingerprint image acquired by the fingerprint sensor 401 with the fingerprint image stored in memory (e.g., ...). Figure 1 The first fingerprint image is compared with the second fingerprint image stored in the memory 130, thereby determining the input direction of the first fingerprint image.

[0126] In operation 803, processor 120 can identify the posture of electronic device 101 based on the input orientation of the fingerprint image. For example, processor 120 can identify the current state of electronic device 101 (e.g., folded state, unfolded state, or intermediate state) and determine whether electronic device 101 is installed based on the current state. According to embodiments, a sensor such as a gyroscope (e.g., Figure 4 The gyroscope sensor 403 and / or accelerometer sensor (e.g., Figure 1 The sensor module (e.g., the accelerometer 405 in the middle) Figure 4The sensor module 176 in the sensor module 176) and the processor 120 can recognize the posture of the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include a first housing (e.g., Figure 2a The first housing 210) and the second housing (e.g., Figure 2a The second housing 220 is located in the first housing 210, and the main PCB and sub-PCB can be respectively disposed in the first housing 210 and the second housing 220. According to an embodiment, at least one of a gyroscope sensor 403 and an accelerometer sensor 405 can be disposed in each of the first housing 210 and the second housing 220. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 can use multiple sensors disposed in the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 to measure multiple sense values ​​and identify the posture of the electronic device 101 corresponding to the measured sense values. According to an embodiment, the hinge module of the electronic device 101 (e.g., Figure 3a The hinge module 240 in the device 101 may include a sensor (e.g., a digital Hall IC) for correcting angle values ​​based on the posture of the electronic device 101. Using the sensor (e.g., a digital Hall IC), the processor 120 can correct the sensed values ​​corresponding to the posture and angle of the electronic device 101.

[0127] According to an embodiment, using a gyroscope sensor or an accelerometer sensor, the processor 120 can determine whether the electronic device 101 is exposed in a first direction (e.g., a front direction or a z-axis direction), that is, whether at least one display (e.g., a front display) positioned in the first direction is exposed. Furthermore, using the gyroscope sensor or accelerometer sensor, the processor 120 can determine whether the electronic device 101 is exposed in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., a rearward direction or a negative z-axis direction), that is, whether at least one display (e.g., a rear display) positioned in the second direction is exposed. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 can use a camera module (e.g., Figure 1 The camera module 180 in the device detects the direction of the user's gaze and identifies the posture of the electronic device 101 based on the direction of the user's gaze.

[0128] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can identify the user's posture based on at least one of the input direction of the fingerprint image, the sensing value of the gyroscope sensor 403 and / or the accelerometer sensor 405, and / or the user's gaze direction detected by the camera module 180.

[0129] In operation 805, processor 120 may determine at least one display (e.g., based on the orientation of electronic device 101) Figure 2a Flexible display 400 Figure 3a Sub-displays 231 and / or Figure 3dAnother display (232) in the process. For example, at least one display can be switched to an enabled state to display information related to at least one specific function corresponding to user input. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 can predict at least one display corresponding to the user's gaze direction and determine the predicted at least one display.

[0130] In operation 807, processor 120 may display information relating to at least one specific function corresponding to user input on at least one determined display. For example, processor 120 may execute at least one specific function and display an execution screen for at least one specific function.

[0131] According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 can identify a user's posture based on at least one of the input direction of a fingerprint image, the sensing value of a gyroscope sensor 403 and / or an accelerometer sensor 405, and / or the user's gaze direction detected by camera module 180. Based on the identified posture, electronic device 101 can predict and determine at least one display corresponding to the user's gaze direction. Electronic device 101 can then display information related to at least one specific function corresponding to user input through the determined at least one display.

[0132] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating example operations of enabling at least one display based on the input direction of a fingerprint image detected by a fingerprint sensor, according to various embodiments.

[0133] Reference Figure 9 Electronic devices (e.g.) Figure 1 The electronic device 101 in the device can be in an intermediate state where the foldable housing is at least partially bent.

[0134] Referring to operations [a] and [b], the electronic device 101 in the intermediate state can recognize and interact with the first key input device (e.g., Figure 2a The electronic device 101 determines the input direction of the fingerprint image corresponding to the user input (first key input device 230). The electronic device 101 can identify the posture based on the input direction of the fingerprint image and can determine at least one display based on the identified posture. For example, the electronic device 101 can determine at least one display for displaying information related to at least one specific function (corresponding to the user input). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 can use a gyroscope sensor (e.g., Figure 4 The gyroscope sensor 403 and / or accelerometer sensor (e.g., Figure 4 The accelerometer sensor 405 is used to measure its tilt value and the measured value is used to identify its posture. For example, at least one of the gyroscope sensor 403 and the accelerometer sensor 405 may be disposed in the first housing of the electronic device 101 (e.g., Figure 2a The first housing 210) and the second housing (e.g., Figure 2a In each of the second housings 220 (in the first housing 210 and the second housing 220). Electronic device 101 can use such sensors disposed in each of the first housing 210 and the second housing 220 to identify its posture. According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 can use a camera module (e.g., Figure 1 The camera module 180 in the middle identifies the user's gaze direction and determines the user's posture based on the identified gaze direction.

[0135] In operation [a], the electronic device 101 can be positioned with respect to the first surface of the first housing 210 (e.g., Figure 2a The display can be deactivated in the area corresponding to the first surface 211 of the second housing 220, and can be deactivated in the area corresponding to the third surface of the second housing 220 (e.g., Figure 2a The display is enabled in the area corresponding to the third surface 221 in the display. For example, a flexible display (e.g., Figure 2a The flexible display 400 in the first housing 210 can be configured to extend from the first surface 211 of the first housing 210 across the hinge module (e.g., Figure 3a The hinge module 240 extends to at least a portion of the third surface 221 of the second housing 220. The flexible display 400 can be divided into a first display area corresponding to the first surface 211 and a second display area corresponding to the third surface 221, and each of the first and second display areas can be independently enabled or disabled. In operation [a], the electronic device 101 can identify the user's gaze direction based on the identified posture and individually switch the second display area corresponding to the gaze direction to the enabled state. The electronic device 101 can then display information related to at least one specific function corresponding to user input on the enabled second display area.

[0136] In operation [b], the electronic device 101 can be activated on the second surface of the first housing 210 (e.g., Figure 3a The display (e.g., a third display area) is located in the area corresponding to the second surface 212. For example, the display (e.g., a third display area) in the area corresponding to the second surface may be included in a sub-display of the electronic device 101. In operation [b], the electronic device 101 may identify the user's gaze direction based on the identified posture and individually switch the third display area corresponding to the gaze direction to an enabled state. The electronic device 101 may then display information related to at least one specific function corresponding to user input on the enabled third display area.

[0137] According to various example embodiments, a method in which at least a portion of a flexible electronic device 101 may include: detecting user input through at least one input device 150 in which a fingerprint sensor 401 is configured to be in a deactivated state; in response to the user input, identifying at least one specific function corresponding to the detected user input; enabling the fingerprint sensor 401 based on the fact that the identified at least one specific function is a function requiring user authentication; performing user authentication corresponding to the user input using the enabled fingerprint sensor 401; and performing at least one specific function corresponding to the user input when user authentication is successful.

[0138] According to an example embodiment, the electronic device 101 may further include a foldable housing, the foldable housing including: a hinge (e.g., Figure 3a The hinge module 240 in the middle); the first housing (e.g., Figure 2a The first housing structure 210 in the middle, the first housing is connected to the hinge 240 and includes a first surface facing a first direction (e.g., Figure 2a The first surface 211) and the second surface facing the second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., Figure 3a The second surface 212 in the middle); and the second housing (e.g., Figure 2a The second housing structure 220 in the middle), the second housing is connected to the hinge and includes a third surface facing a third direction (e.g., Figure 2a The third surface 221) and the fourth surface facing the fourth direction opposite to the third direction (e.g., Figure 3b The second housing (211) is foldable about the first housing 210 around the hinge 240, with the fourth surface 222. In the folded state, the first surface 211 can face the third surface 221, and the third surface can be the same as the first surface in the unfolded state.

[0139] According to an example embodiment, the method may further include: using a sensor module 176 configured to detect the unfolding angle of the foldable housing to identify the unfolding angle of the foldable housing; and switching the fingerprint sensor 401 from a disabled state to an enabled state based on the unfolding angle exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0140] According to an example embodiment, the method may further include: identifying the input direction of a fingerprint image detected by the fingerprint sensor 401; identifying the posture of the electronic device 101 based on the input direction of the fingerprint image; determining at least one display 160 disposed on the foldable housing based on the posture of the electronic device 101; and enabling the determined at least one display 160.

[0141] According to an example embodiment, the method may further include: identifying the posture of the electronic device 101 using a gyroscope sensor 403 and an accelerometer sensor 405; determining at least one display 160 based on the input direction of the fingerprint image and the posture of the electronic device 101; and enabling the determined at least one display 160.

[0142] According to an example embodiment, the posture of the electronic device 101 can be identified by comparing a first fingerprint image stored in memory 130 with a second fingerprint image detected by fingerprint sensor 401.

[0143] According to the example embodiment, the functions requiring user authentication may include functions performed using the user's personal information stored in the memory 130, and may include at least one of message sending / receiving functions, call sending / receiving functions, and payment-related functions.

[0144] According to the example embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 401 can be kept in an enabled state for a predetermined time based on the enabled fingerprint sensor 401.

[0145] According to an example embodiment, a fingerprint sensor 401 may be disposed in at least one input device 150 and may acquire fingerprint information corresponding to user input based on a capacitive, optical, or ultrasonic scheme.

[0146] The electronic device according to the embodiments can be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic device may include portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances, etc. However, the electronic device is not limited to any of the above.

[0147] The various embodiments of this disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features set forth herein to the specific embodiments, but rather to include various changes, equivalents, or substitutions to the respective embodiments. In the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. The singular forms of nouns corresponding to terms may include one or more things unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. Each of the phrases such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” as used herein may include any one or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together with the corresponding phrase among the plurality of phrases. Terms such as “first” and “second” or “first” and “second” as used herein may be used to simply distinguish corresponding components from another component and do not limit the scope of the description in other respects (e.g., importance or order). Components. When the terms “operably” or “communically” are used, or when the terms “operably” or “communically” are not used, if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as “combined with another element (e.g., a second element),” “combined to another element (e.g., a second element),” “connected to another element (e.g., a second element),” or “attached to another element (e.g., a second element),” it means that the element can be directly (e.g., wiredly) connected to the other element, wirelessly connected to the other element, or connected to the other element via a third element.

[0148] The term "module" can include a unit implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof, and is used interchangeably with other terms (e.g., "logic," "logic block," "part," or "circuit"). A module can be a single integrated component adapted to perform one or more functions, or the smallest unit or part of that single integrated component. For example, according to an embodiment, a module can be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0149] The various embodiments set forth herein can be implemented as software (e.g., program 140) containing one or more instructions readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device 101) stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory 136 or external memory 138). For example, under the control of a processor, the processor (e.g., processor 120) of the machine (e.g., electronic device 101) can invoke and execute at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, with or without the use of one or more other components. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. Machine-readable storage media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but this term does not distinguish between data being stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and data being temporarily stored in the storage medium.

[0150] Methods according to embodiments of this disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or via an app store (e.g., the Play Store). TM The computer program product may be published online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded), or may be distributed directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones) (e.g., downloaded or uploaded). If published online, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily generated, or at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored in a machine-readable storage medium (such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an app store's server, or a forwarding server).

[0151] Each of the above components (e.g., a module or program) may include a single entity or multiple entities. One or more of the above components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Optionally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may still perform the one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as the corresponding component of the multiple components performed one or more functions prior to integration. The operations performed by the module, program, or other component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be run in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0152] While this disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to various exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that these exemplary embodiments are intended to illustrate the issues and not to be limiting. Those skilled in the art will further understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the true spirit and full scope of this disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: A foldable housing, the foldable housing comprising: Hinges; A first housing, the first housing being connected to the hinge and including a first surface facing a first direction, a second surface facing a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side surface connecting the first surface and the second surface; and A second housing, connected to the hinge, and foldable around the hinge to face the first housing. At least one input device, the at least one input device including a fingerprint sensor and at least partially disposed on a side surface of the first housing; Multiple monitors; Memory; and A processor, operatively connected to the at least one input device and the memory, The processor is configured as follows: Since the fingerprint sensor is in a deactivated state, a single touch input is detected through the at least one input device. In response to a detected single touch input, identify at least one specific function corresponding to the detected single touch input. Determine whether the at least one specific function requires user authentication. If at least one specific function requires user authentication, the execution of that specific function shall be initiated simultaneously with the activation of the fingerprint sensor. Using the enabled fingerprint sensor, perform user authentication corresponding to the single touch input. Upon successful user authentication, the electronic device is controlled to perform at least one specific function corresponding to the single touch input. Identify the input direction of the fingerprint image detected by the fingerprint sensor. The posture of the electronic device is identified based on the input direction of the fingerprint image. Determine at least one of the plurality of displays based on the posture of the electronic device, and Enable at least one of the determined plurality of displays.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, in, The second housing includes a third surface facing a third direction and a fourth surface facing a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, and In the folded state, the first surface faces the third surface; in the unfolded state, the third surface is the same as the first surface.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, further comprising: A sensor module, comprising at least one sensor configured to detect the unfolding angle of the foldable housing, The processor is configured as follows: The sensor module identifies the unfolding angle of the foldable shell, and Based on the unfolding angle exceeding a predetermined threshold, the fingerprint sensor is switched from a disabled state to an enabled state.

4. The electronic device according to claim 2, in, The plurality of displays are mounted on the foldable housing.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: A gyroscope sensor and an accelerometer sensor are configured to identify the posture of the electronic device. The processor is configured as follows: The posture of the electronic device is identified using the gyroscope sensor and the accelerometer sensor. At least one of the plurality of displays is determined based on the input orientation of the fingerprint image and the posture of the electronic device, and Enable at least one of the determined plurality of displays.

6. The electronic device according to claim 5, wherein, The processor is configured to: The posture of the electronic device is identified by comparing a first fingerprint image stored in the memory with a second fingerprint image detected by the fingerprint sensor. Based on the identified pose, at least one of the plurality of displays to be enabled is determined, and Enable at least one of the determined plurality of displays.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The functions requiring user authentication include functions performed using the user's personal information stored in the memory, and include at least one of message sending / receiving functions, call sending / receiving functions, and payment-related functions.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The fingerprint sensor is disposed in the at least one input device and configured to acquire fingerprint information corresponding to the single touch input based on a capacitive, optical, or ultrasonic method. Wherein, based on the fact that the first fingerprint information obtained using the fingerprint sensor and the second fingerprint information stored in the memory are the same, the processor is configured to determine that the user authentication is successful.

9. A method of operating an electronic device, the electronic device comprising a plurality of displays and a foldable housing, the foldable housing comprising: Hinges; A first housing, the first housing being connected to the hinge and including a first surface facing a first direction, a second surface facing a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side surface connecting the first surface and the second surface; The method includes: a second housing connected to the hinge and foldable about the hinge to face the first housing. A single touch input is detected by at least one input device, the at least one input device including a fingerprint sensor and at least partially disposed on a side surface of the first housing, and the fingerprint sensor is in a deactivated state; In response to the single touch input, at least one specific function corresponding to the detected single touch input is identified; Determine whether the at least one specific function requires user authentication; If at least one specific function requires user authentication, the execution of the at least one specific function shall be initiated simultaneously with the activation of the fingerprint sensor; Using the enabled fingerprint sensor, perform user authentication corresponding to the single touch input; Upon successful user authentication, at least one specific function corresponding to the single touch input is executed; Identify the input direction of the fingerprint image detected by the fingerprint sensor. The posture of the electronic device is identified based on the input direction of the fingerprint image. Determine at least one of the plurality of displays based on the posture of the electronic device, and Enable at least one of the determined plurality of displays.

10. The method according to claim 9, in, The second housing includes a third surface facing a third direction and a fourth surface facing a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, and In the folded state, the first surface faces the third surface; in the unfolded state, the third surface is the same as the first surface.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: The unfolding angle of the foldable housing is identified using a sensor module configured to detect the unfolding angle of the foldable housing. as well as Based on the unfolding angle exceeding a predetermined threshold, the fingerprint sensor is switched from a disabled state to an enabled state.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The plurality of displays are mounted on the foldable housing.

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein the method further comprises: The posture of the electronic device is identified using gyroscope and accelerometer sensors; At least one of the plurality of displays is determined based on the input direction of the fingerprint image and the posture of the electronic device; as well as Enable at least one of the determined plurality of displays.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The posture of the electronic device is identified by comparing a first fingerprint image stored in the memory of the electronic device with a second fingerprint image detected by the fingerprint sensor.

15. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The functions requiring user authentication include functions performed using the user's personal information stored in the memory of the electronic device, and include at least one of message sending / receiving functions, call sending / receiving functions, and payment-related functions.

Images