Method for providing service continuity, and electronic device therefor

Abstract

Disclosed is an electronic device comprising a foldable housing. This electronic device may transition from an unfolded position to a folded position while providing content through a front display in the unfolded position. The electronic device may identify a direction in which a display of the electronic device faces, on the basis of detecting the transition. The electronic device may determine whether to provide the content, on the basis of whether the display direction before the transition corresponds to the display direction after the transition.

Description

Method for providing service continuity and electronic device therefor

[0001] Embodiments disclosed in this document relate to a method for providing service continuity and an electronic device therefor.

[0002] Foldable electronic devices are widely used. Foldable electronic devices may have a hinge structure and a housing that can be folded or unfolded around the hinge structure. For user convenience, foldable electronic devices may include displays arranged on multiple surfaces. For example, foldable electronic devices may include a main display and a sub-display. For example, in an unfolded state, a foldable electronic device may provide a service by displaying content through the main display. When transitioning from an unfolded state to a folded state, the foldable electronic device may stop displaying content.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background information to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure.

[0004] An electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed in the present document may include a housing including a first housing and a second housing configured to be rotatably engaged with the first housing between a folded position and an unfolded position, a first flexible display visible from a front side of the housing in the unfolded position, a second display visible from a rear side of the housing in the unfolded position, at least one sensor circuit configured to detect a transition of the housing between the folded position and the unfolded position and to detect an orientation of the housing, at least one processor electrically connected to the first flexible display, the second display, and the at least one sensor circuit, and a memory electrically connected to the at least one processor. The memory may store instructions executable by the at least one processor.The electronic device may be configured to provide content corresponding to the first application through the first flexible display by executing the instructions, thereby executing a first application in the unfolded position, and during the provision of the content through the first flexible display, detect a transition of the housing from the unfolded position to the folded position using the at least one sensor circuit, and, based on the detection of the transition, identify a second direction in which the second display faces in the folded position, and, based on the second direction corresponding to a first direction in which the front of the housing faces before the transition from the unfolded position to the folded position, provide content corresponding to the first application through the second display, and, based on the second direction not corresponding to the first direction, control the second display to a standby state or an off state, and maintain the execution state of the first application for a specified time period.

[0005] In addition, a method of an electronic device having a housing including a first housing and a second housing configured to be rotatably engaged with the first housing according to an embodiment disclosed in the present document comprises: providing content corresponding to the first application through a first flexible display visible from a front side of the housing in the unfolded position by executing a first application in an unfolded position of the housing; detecting a transition from the unfolded position to a folded position of the housing during the provision of the content through the first flexible display; identifying a second direction in which a second display disposed on the rear side of the second housing faces in the folded position based on the detection of the transition to the folded position; providing content corresponding to the first application through the second display based on the second direction corresponding to the first direction in which the front side of the housing faces before the transition to the folded position; and placing the second display in a standby state based on the second direction not corresponding to the first direction. Or it may include an action of controlling the off state and maintaining the running state of the first application for a specified time period.

[0006] Additionally, a computer-readable storage medium according to an embodiment disclosed in the present document may store instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations of the method of the electronic device.

[0007] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 2A illustrates an electronic device in an unfolded position according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2b illustrates an electronic device in a half-fold position according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2c illustrates an electronic device in a folded position according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a service provision method according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 illustrates a sensor circuit layout according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 illustrates position transition of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 illustrates an example of altitude change of an electronic device.

[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates a grip shape of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 10 is a flowchart of a method for providing continuous services according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 11 is a flowchart of a method for providing continuous services according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 12 illustrates an example of a transition to a half-fold position.

[0021] Figure 13 is a flowchart of a content provision method according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 14 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment.

[0023] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the embodiments of the present invention are included.

[0025] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, according to one embodiment, an electronic device (100) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), a first flexible display (161), a second display (162), and a sensor circuit (176). For example, the electronic device (100) may correspond to the electronic device (1401) of FIG. 14. The structure of the electronic device (100) illustrated in FIG. 1 is exemplary, and the embodiments of the present document are not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (100) may further include a configuration not illustrated in FIG. 1 (e.g., at least one of the configurations of the electronic device (1401) of FIG. 14). For example, the electronic device (100) may not include at least one of the configurations illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0027] The processor (120) may include at least one processing circuit (e.g., at least one processor). For example, the processor (120) may control various components of the electronic device (100) so that the electronic device (100) performs various operations. For example, the processor (120) may correspond to the processor (1420) of FIG. 14. For example, the operations of the electronic device (100) described below may be referred to as operations performed by the processor (120). The processor (120) may perform various operations of the electronic device (100) by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory (130). The processor (120) may control the electronic device (100) so that the electronic device (100) performs various operations by executing the instructions stored in the memory (130). The processor (120) may include one processor or a plurality of processors. In one example, the processor (120) may be implemented as a single chipset. A plurality of processors may be configured to individually or collectively execute instructions to perform operations of the electronic device (100) described below.

[0028] The memory (130) may be implemented as a single chip or chipset with the processor (120). The memory (130) may be implemented as a separate chip from the processor (120). In one example, the memory (130) may correspond to the memory (1430) of FIG. 14. The memory (130) may store various information for the operation of the electronic device (100). For example, the memory (130) may store instructions that may be executed by the processor (120). The memory (130) may be configured to provide data required by the processor (120) and store data generated by the processor (120).

[0029] The first flexible display (161) and the second display (162) may include a plurality of pixels. For example, the first flexible display (161) and the second display (162) may correspond to the display module (1460) of FIG. 14. The first flexible display (161) and / or the second display (162) may include a touch screen. The processor (120) may display an image using the first flexible display (161) and / or the second display (162).

[0030] The first flexible display (161) may be referred to as a display positioned on the front of the electronic device (100) in the unfolded position of the electronic device (100). The first flexible display (161) may be a display configured to fold or unfold around a hinge structure of the electronic device (100). The first flexible display (161) may be referred to as a foldable display or a main display.

[0031] The second display (162) may be referred to as a display viewable from the outside of the electronic device (100) in the folded position of the electronic device (100). For example, the electronic device (100) may be an infold device (e.g., examples of FIGS. 2A to 3). In this case, the first flexible display (161) may be folded such that a plurality of display areas divided around a hinge structure face each other. The second display (162) of the infold device may be a display located on the rear of the electronic device (100) in the unfolded position. For example, the electronic device (100) may be an outfold device (e.g., examples of FIG. 4). In this case, the first flexible display (161) may be folded such that a plurality of display areas divided around a hinge structure face each other in opposite directions. The second display (162) may be a portion of the display area of ​​the first flexible display (161). The second display (162) may be referred to as a sub-display or a sub-display area of ​​the main display.

[0032] The display (160) may include a plurality of pixels. For example, the display (160) may correspond to the display module (1460) of FIG. 14. The processor (120) may use the display (160) to display visual images. In one example, the display (160) may include a touch screen display. As described above, the display (160) may be omitted.

[0033] The sensor circuit (176) may include at least one sensor for identifying the status of the electronic device (100). The sensor circuit (176) may correspond to, for example, the sensor module (1476) of FIG. 14.

[0034] The sensor circuit (176) may be configured to detect a folding state of the electronic device (100). For example, the sensor circuit (176) may include at least one acceleration sensor, at least one gyro sensor, and / or at least one hinge sensor. The hinge sensor may be referred to as a sensor configured to detect a folding angle of the electronic device (100). The processor (120) may identify a folding state of the electronic device (100) using the sensor circuit (176). A method for identifying the folding state may be described later with reference to FIG. 6. The sensor circuit (176) may be configured to detect an altitude of the electronic device (100). For example, the sensor circuit (176) may include at least one barometer. The sensor circuit (176) may be configured to detect a grip state of the electronic device (100). For example, the sensor circuit (176) may include at least one grip sensor. The grip sensor may be configured to detect an external grip on the electronic device (100), for example, based on electrostatic capacitance, to detect an external grip on the electronic device (100) based on a change in impedance of a conductor, or to detect an external grip on the electronic device (100) based on a reflected signal.

[0035] For example, the electronic device (100) may include any electronic device having a foldable housing. The electronic device (100) may include, for example, at least one of a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, an in-vehicle electronic device, or a home appliance device. The electronic device according to the embodiment of the present document is not limited to the devices described above. Hereinafter, various examples of the electronic device (100) may be described with reference to FIGS. 2A to 4 .

[0036] FIG. 2A illustrates an electronic device in an unfolded position according to one embodiment. FIG. 2B illustrates an electronic device in a half-folded position according to one embodiment. FIG. 2C illustrates an electronic device in a folded position according to one embodiment.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, an electronic device (100a) according to an embodiment may include a structure in which a first housing (111) and a second housing (112) can rotate in opposite directions through a folding region (140). For example, the electronic device (100a) may correspond to the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1. The electronic device (100a) may be configured to perform a folding operation (e.g., an operation in which the shapes of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C are deformed in that order) or an unfolding operation (e.g., an operation in which the shapes of FIGS. 2C, 2B, and 2A are deformed in that order). For example, in a folding operation performed from an unfolded position (e.g., a state of FIG. 2A), the first housing (111) may rotate clockwise, and the second housing (112) may rotate counterclockwise. For example, the folding region (140) may include a region corresponding to a region where a hinge structure of the electronic device (100a) is located. For example, the second housing (112) may be configured to be movably or rotatably engaged with the first housing (111) between a folded position and an unfolded position.

[0038] Based on the unfolded position of the electronic device (100a) (state of FIG. 2a), a first edge surface (P1), which is a surface of the side of the first housing (111) that faces in the same direction as the direction in which the fingerprint contact surface of the fingerprint sensor (141) faces, may be defined. A second edge surface (P2), which is a surface of the side of the second housing (112) that faces in the same direction as the fingerprint contact surface of the fingerprint sensor (141) faces, may be defined. For example, the first edge surface (P1) may include a portion of the first housing (111), and the second edge surface (P2) may include a portion of the second housing (112) and a portion of the fingerprint sensor (141) located in the second housing (112).

[0039] Referring to FIG. 2A, the unfolded position may refer to a state in which the folding area (140) of the first flexible display (161) is substantially flat. For example, the unfolded position may refer to a state in which the angle between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) is greater than or equal to a specified first angle (e.g., 120 degrees). For example, the unfolded position may include a state in which the first edge surface (P1) and the second edge surface (P2) substantially form one surface. For example, the unfolded position may include a state in which the first flexible display (161) and the second display (162) are parallel while facing in opposite directions. For example, the electronic device (100a) in the unfolded position may display an image acquired using the rear camera (182) on the first flexible display (161).

[0040] Referring to FIG. 2B, the half-fold position (or intermediate state) may refer to any state between the unfolded position and the folded position. For example, the half-fold position may be referred to as a state in which the angle between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) is less than a first angle (e.g., 120 degrees) and greater than a second angle (e.g., 30 degrees). In the half-fold position, the operating mode of the electronic device (100a) may be referred to as a table mode or a flex mode. For example, the half-fold position may be referred to as a state excluding the folded position and the unfolded position. For example, the half-fold position may include a state in which the folding area (140) of the first flexible display (161) is curved. For example, the half-fold position may include a state in which the length portion of the first edge surface (P1) and the length portion of the second edge surface (P2) form a predetermined angle other than 180 degrees. For example, the electronic device (100a) in the half-fold position may display an image acquired using a camera module (e.g., a front camera (181) or a rear camera (182)) on a portion of the first flexible display (161).

[0041] Referring to FIG. 2C, the fold position may include a state in which a curved surface formed by the folding area (140) of the first flexible display (161) has a greater curvature than a curved surface formed by the folding area (140) in the half-fold position. For example, the fold position may be referred to as a state in which an angle between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) is less than a specified second angle (e.g., 30 degrees). For example, the fold position may mean a state in which, among a plurality of fold positions, the first edge surface (P1) and the second edge surface (P2) are substantially in contact.

[0042] In the folded position, the first flexible display (161) may not be visible from the outside of the electronic device (100a). In the folded position, the second display (161) may be visible from the outside of the electronic device (100a). For example, the electronic device (100a) in the folded position may display an image acquired using a rear camera (182) (e.g., the first rear camera (182a) and / or the second rear camera (182b)) on at least a portion of the second display (161).

[0043] According to one embodiment, the hinge portion (143) may form at least a portion of the exterior (or surface) of the electronic device (100) in the half-fold position and the unfolded position. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C , the hinge portion (143) may be visually exposed between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) when the electronic device (100a) is in the half-fold position or the folded position.

[0044] FIG. 3 illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 3, the electronic device (100b) may correspond to the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1. With reference to FIGS. 2A to 2C, an electronic device (100b) having a hinge structure formed along a short axis has been described. In the example of FIG. 3, a hinge structure may be formed along the long axis of the electronic device (100c). The electronic device (100c) may be folded or unfolded around a folding region (140). The electronic devices (100a) of FIGS. 2A to 2C and the electronic device (100b) of FIG. 3 are infolded devices, and the contents described above with respect to FIGS. 2A to 2C may also be applied to the electronic device (100b) of FIG. 3.

[0046] FIG. 4 illustrates a foldable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (100c) may correspond to the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1. For example, the electronic device (100c) may be an outfold device. In the unfolded position, the first flexible display (161) may be visible through the front surfaces of the first housing (111) and the second housing (112). In the folded position, the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) may face each other. In the folded position, the second display (162) may be visible through one side of the electronic device (100c). For example, the second display (162) may include a portion of the display area of ​​the first flexible display (161). The second display (162) may include an area of ​​the first flexible display (161) separated by a folding area (140). For example, the second display (162) may be a display area located in the second housing (112). For example, the second display (162) may include a display area in which a camera (not shown) of the electronic device (100c) is located among the display areas (e.g., areas separated by a folding area (140)) of the first flexible display (161).

[0048] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a service provision method according to one embodiment.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may provide service continuity when the state of the electronic device (100) transitions. For example, the electronic device (100) may provide service continuity based on at least one of the direction in which the display of the electronic device (100) faces, the altitude of the electronic device (100), the grip state of the electronic device (100), the direction of the user with respect to the electronic device (100), the execution state of the running application, or the type of the running application. Service continuity may mean continuously providing a service that was provided in a previous state when the state of the electronic device (100) changes. The electronic device (100) may provide a service by providing content of an application running on the electronic device (100). For example, the content may include an execution screen of the running application and / or a sound of the running application.

[0050] In operation 505, the electronic device (100) may provide content through the first flexible display (161) in the unfolded position. For example, the electronic device (100) may display an execution screen of a first application running on the electronic device (100) on the first flexible display (161).

[0051] In operation 510, the electronic device (100) may determine whether the electronic device (100) has transitioned to the folded position. For example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether the electronic device (100) has transitioned from the unfolded position to the folded position using the sensor circuit (176). A method for detecting a position transition of the electronic device (100) may be described later with reference to FIG. 6. If the transition to the folded position has not occurred (e.g., operation 510-NO), the electronic device (100) may monitor the position transition.

[0052] When transitioning to the fold position (e.g., operation 510-YES), in operation 515, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied. For example, the specified condition may include at least one of an orientation of the electronic device (100), an elevation change of the electronic device (100), a grip state of the electronic device (100), a user's orientation with respect to the electronic device (100), an execution state of a running application, a shielding state of the display, or a type of a running application.

[0053] In one example, the electronic device (100) can identify a first direction (e.g., a direction substantially perpendicular to a display surface of the first flexible display (161)) toward the first flexible display (161) in the unfolded position using the sensor circuit (176). The electronic device (100) can identify a second direction (e.g., a direction substantially perpendicular to a display surface of the second display (162)) toward the second display (162) in the folded position. If the first direction corresponds to the second direction, the electronic device (100) can determine that a specified condition is satisfied. If the angle between the first direction and the second direction is within the specified angle, the first direction can correspond to the second direction. If the first direction and the second direction are substantially the same, the first direction can correspond to the second direction. Determining whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the direction of the electronic device (100) can be described below with reference to FIG. 7.

[0054] In one example, if the altitude change of the electronic device (100) is less than a specified value, the specified condition may be determined to be satisfied. The electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is not satisfied if the difference between the altitude of the electronic device (100) in the unfolded position and the altitude of the electronic device (100) in the folded position is greater than or equal to the specified value. The condition for the altitude change may be an exception condition. For example, even if other conditions (the orientation of the electronic device (100), the holding state of the electronic device (100), the direction of the user with respect to the electronic device (100), the execution state of the running application, the shielding state of the display, or the type of the running application) are satisfied, if the altitude condition is not satisfied, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is not satisfied. Determining whether the specified condition is satisfied based on the altitude of the electronic device (100) may be described later with reference to FIG. 8.

[0055] In one example, the electronic device (100) can determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on a gripping state of the electronic device (100). In the folded position, the electronic device (100) can detect a surface on which the electronic device (100) is gripped. For example, if at least a portion of a surface on which the second housing (e.g., the second housing (112) of FIGS. 2A, 3, and 4) or the second display (162) of the electronic device (100) is visible is gripped, the electronic device (100) can determine that the specified condition is not satisfied. The gripping condition can be an exception condition. For example, even if other conditions (such as the orientation of the electronic device (100), the altitude of the electronic device (100), the user's orientation with respect to the electronic device (100), the execution state of the running application, the shielding state of the display, or the type of the running application) are satisfied, if the gripping condition is not satisfied, the electronic device (100) can determine that the specified condition is not satisfied. Determining whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the phage of the electronic device (100) can be described later with reference to FIG. 9.

[0056] In one example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the user's orientation with respect to the electronic device (100). For example, the electronic device (100) may detect the user using a camera in a folded position. Based on the detection of the user, the electronic device (100) may identify a first orientation of the user with respect to the electronic device (100). After transitioning to an unfolded position, the electronic device (100) may detect the user using a camera. If the second orientation of the user detected in the folded position corresponds to the first orientation of the user detected in the unfolded position, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied. If the angle between the first direction and the second direction is within a specified angle, the first direction may correspond to the second direction. If the first direction and the second direction are substantially the same, the first direction may correspond to the second direction. Determining whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the user's orientation may be described later with reference to FIG. 12.

[0057] In one example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the execution state of a running application. The electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied if the execution state of the application in the unfolded position is the specified state. For example, if the execution state is a state in which an input interface for user input (e.g., a virtual keyboard, etc.) is activated, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied after transitioning to the folded position.

[0058] In one example, the electronic device (100) can determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the shielding state of the display. If the second display (162) is shielded in the unfolded position, the electronic device (100) can determine that the specified condition is not satisfied. If the second display (162) is not shielded in the unfolded position, the electronic device (100) can determine that the specified condition is satisfied. The electronic device (100) can identify whether the second display (162) is shielded using the sensor circuit (176). In one example, the sensor circuit (176) can include a proximity sensor located in the second housing (e.g., the second housing (112) of FIGS. 2A and 3). The electronic device (100) can identify whether the display surface facing the second display (162) is shielded by an external object using the proximity sensor. The condition for shielding the display can be an exception condition. For example, if the condition for shielding is not satisfied even if other conditions (orientation of the electronic device (100), altitude of the electronic device (100), orientation of the user with respect to the electronic device (100), execution status of the running application, or type of the running application) are satisfied, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is not satisfied.

[0059] For example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the type of application running on the electronic device (100). The running application may be referred to as an application running in the foreground of the electronic device (100). The electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied if the running application is a specified application (e.g., a camera application).

[0060] In one example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied by combining at least some of the conditions described above. For example, the electronic device (100) may determine that a specified condition is satisfied if all of the exception conditions (e.g., an altitude change of the electronic device (100), a grip state of the electronic device (100), and a shielding state of the display) are satisfied and at least one of the remaining conditions (e.g., an orientation of the electronic device (100), a user's orientation with respect to the electronic device (100), an execution state of a running application, or a type of a running application) is satisfied.

[0061] If a specified condition is satisfied (e.g., operation 515-YES), in operation 520, the electronic device (100) can provide content using the second display (161). Even after switching to the folded position, service continuity can be provided by providing content using the second display (162). The electronic device (100) allows the user to continue using the service provided in the unfolded position without any separate user input. In this case, separate user input for continuous service of the electronic device (100) can be reduced. Due to the reduction in input, user usability can be improved. By providing service continuity based on the specified condition, a service that matches the user's intention can be provided. After providing content (e.g., operation 520), the electronic device (100) can perform operations according to reference point A. Operations according to reference point A can be described later with reference to FIG. 10.

[0062] If the specified condition is not satisfied (e.g., operation 515-NO), in operation 525, the electronic device (100) may control the second display (162) to a standby state or an off state. The standby state may be referred to as a state in which the second display (162) is controlled to a relatively low luminance (e.g., a luminance lower than a specified luminance). In the standby state, the electronic device (100) may display an image on the second display (162) at a low luminance. The standby state may be referred to as a low power state. The off state may be referred to as a state in which an image is not displayed through the second display (162). After controlling the second display (162) (e.g., operation 525), the electronic device (100) may perform operations according to reference point B. Operations according to reference point B may be described below with reference to FIG. 11.

[0063] Figure 6 illustrates a sensor circuit layout according to one embodiment.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 6, according to one embodiment, the sensor circuit (176) may include a plurality of sensors. For example, the sensor circuit (176) may include at least one of a first inertial sensor (621), a second inertial sensor (622), or an angular sensor (610).

[0065] Each of the first inertial sensor (621) and the second inertial sensor (622) may include at least one gyro sensor and / or at least one acceleration sensor. The first inertial sensor (621) may be located within the first housing (111). The electronic device (100) may detect an orientation of the first housing (111) or the first flexible display (161) using the first inertial sensor (621). The second inertial sensor (622) may be located within the second housing (112). The electronic device (100) may detect an orientation of the second housing (111), the first flexible display (161), or the second display (162) using the second inertial sensor (622). In the present disclosure, “orientation” may refer to a direction relative to the direction of gravitational acceleration.

[0066] The angle sensor (610) may be configured to identify an angle between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112). For example, the angle sensor (610) may detect the rotation of a gear within a hinge structure located in the folding area (140) to identify the angle between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112). For example, the angle sensor (610) may identify the angle between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) based on magnetism. The angle sensor (610) may include a magnetic sensor (e.g., a Hall IC (integrated circuit)) configured to detect a magnetic source located in one of the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) and a magnetic source located in the other housing. The angle sensor (610) can detect the magnetic force by a magnetic source using a magnetic sensor and measure the angle between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112).

[0067] In one example, either the first inertial sensor (621) or the second inertial sensor (622) may be omitted. For example, if the second inertial sensor (622) is omitted, the electronic device (100) may identify the orientation of the second housing (112) based on the orientation of the first housing (111) measured by the first inertial sensor (621) and the angle detected by the angle sensor (610).

[0068] In one example, the angle sensor (610) may be omitted. For example, the electronic device (100) may identify the angle between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112) by comparing the orientation of the first housing (111) measured by the first inertial sensor (621) with the orientation of the second housing (112) measured by the second inertial sensor (622).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can detect a state transition of the electronic device (100) using the sensor circuit (176) (e.g., operation 510 of FIG. 5). For example, the electronic device (100) can detect a transition from an unfolded position to a folded position by identifying an angular change between the first housing (111) and the second housing (112). For example, the electronic device (100) can detect a transition from an unfolded position to a folded position by detecting an orientation change of at least one of the first housing (111) or the second housing (112).

[0070] Figure 7 illustrates position transition of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 7, the electronic device (100) can transition from an unfolded position to a folded position. In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) in the unfolded position can identify a first direction (701) using the sensor circuit (176). For example, the electronic device (100) can identify the first direction (701) according to the methods described above with respect to FIG. 6. The first direction (701) can be referred to as a direction in which the first flexible display (161) faces in the unfolded position (e.g., a direction substantially perpendicular to a display surface of the first flexible display (161). The first direction (701) can be referred to as a direction in which the front camera (181) faces.

[0072] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) in the fold position can identify the second direction (702) using the sensor circuit (176). For example, the electronic device (100) can identify the second direction (702) (e.g., a direction substantially perpendicular to the display surface of the second display (162)) according to the methods described above with respect to FIG. 6. The second direction (702) can be referred to as the direction in which the second display (162) faces in the fold position. The second direction (702) can be referred to as the direction in which the rear camera (182) faces.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can identify the display orientation before and after the transition using the sensor circuit (176). For example, the electronic device (100) can detect the first direction (701) at a first point in time when the transition from the unfolded position to the folded position begins. The electronic device (100) can detect the start of the transition based on a change in orientation or a change in angle. At the first point in time when the transition begins, the electronic device (100) can identify the first direction (701) toward which the first flexible display (161) faces in the unfolded position. The electronic device (100) can identify the first direction (701) using the sensor circuit (176) (e.g., the first inertial sensor (621) and / or the second inertial sensor (622) of FIG. 6 ). For example, the electronic device (100) can detect the second direction at a second point in time when the transition to the folded position is completed. The electronic device (100) can detect the completion of the transition based on the orientation or angle of the housing. At the second point in time when the transition is completed, the electronic device (100) can identify the second direction (702) toward which the second display (162) faces in the folded position. The electronic device (100) can identify the second direction using the first inertial sensor (621) or the second inertial sensor (622).

[0074] The electronic device (100) can determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the first direction and the second direction (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5). For example, if the first direction (701) corresponds to the second direction (702), the electronic device (100) can determine that the specified condition is satisfied. If the angle between the first direction (701) and the second direction (702) is within the specified angle, the first direction (701) can correspond to the second direction (702). If the first direction (701) and the second direction (702) are substantially the same, the first direction (701) can correspond to the second direction (702).

[0075] Figure 8 illustrates an example of altitude change of an electronic device.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 8, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on an altitude change of the electronic device (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5). For example, the electronic device (100) may detect an altitude change of the electronic device (100) using a barometer or altimeter included in the sensor circuit (176).

[0077] For example, the electronic device (100) may detect a first altitude of the electronic device (100) at a first point in time when a transition from an unfolded position to a folded position begins. The electronic device (100) may detect the start of the transition based on a change in orientation or a change in angle. At the first point in time when the transition begins, the electronic device (100) may detect the first altitude of the electronic device (100) in the unfolded position. For example, the electronic device (100) may detect the second altitude at a second point in time when the transition to the folded position is completed.

[0078] The electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the first altitude and the second altitude (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5). For example, if the difference between the first altitude and the second altitude is less than the specified value, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied. If the difference between the first altitude and the second altitude is greater than or equal to the specified value, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is not satisfied. A large change in altitude before and after a state transition of the electronic device (100) may indicate that the user (801) does not intend to use the device. In one example, the condition for the altitude change may be an exception condition. For example, when the condition for the altitude change is satisfied and at least one of the remaining conditions (e.g., the direction of the electronic device (100), the direction of the user with respect to the electronic device (100), the execution state of the running application, or the type of the running application) is satisfied, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied.

[0079] With reference to FIG. 8, a method of detecting an altitude change by detecting altitude has been described above, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on a change in acceleration of the electronic device (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5). For example, the electronic device (100) may detect a change in acceleration of the electronic device (100) using an accelerometer in the sensor circuit (176). For example, the electronic device (100) may detect a change in acceleration of the electronic device (100) from a first point in time when a transition from an unfolded position to a folded position begins. When a user puts down the electronic device (100), the electronic device (100) may detect the change in acceleration. For example, the electronic device (100) may detect the change in altitude described above based on the change in acceleration. For example, the electronic device (100) can identify a change in altitude of the electronic device (100) by detecting a change in acceleration on a time axis. As described above, the electronic device (100) can determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the change in altitude (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5).

[0080] In one example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the amount of change in acceleration (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5). For example, when the user puts down the electronic device (100) or places it on a desk, the acceleration change may disappear after a certain period of time. When the pattern of the acceleration change detected from the first time point corresponds to the above-described example (e.g., when the electronic device (100) is put down or placed on a desk, etc.), the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied. In one example, the condition for acceleration may be an exception condition. For example, when the condition for acceleration is satisfied and at least one of the remaining conditions (e.g., the direction of the electronic device (100), the direction of the user with respect to the electronic device (100), the execution status of the running application, or the type of the running application) is satisfied, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied.

[0081] Figure 9 illustrates a grip form of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 9, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the grip of the electronic device (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5). For example, the electronic device (100) may detect a grip state for the electronic device (100) using a grip sensor included in the sensor circuit (176). For example, the electronic device (100) may detect the grip state using the sensor circuit (176) at the time when the transition from the unfolded position to the folded position is completed. For example, the sensor circuit (176) may emit a signal using an antenna and detect a reflected signal to detect the grip state. For example, the sensor circuit (176) may detect the grip state by detecting a change in electrostatic capacitance. In one example, the electronic device (100) may detect the grip state for the second display (162) using a touch circuit of the second display (162). For example, the surface gripped by the user (901) may be referred to as the surface of the housing where gripping is detected on a relatively large number of surfaces among the first housing (111) and the second housing (112).

[0083] In one example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified condition is satisfied based on the gripping state of the electronic device (100). In the folded position, the electronic device (100) may detect the surface on which the electronic device (100) is gripped. For example, if at least a portion of the surface on which the second housing (112) or the second display (162) of the electronic device (100) is visible is gripped, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is not satisfied. The gripping condition may be an exception condition. For example, even if other conditions (e.g., the orientation of the electronic device (100), the altitude of the electronic device (100), the direction of the user with respect to the electronic device (100), the execution state of the running application, the shielding state of the display, or the type of the running application) are satisfied, if the gripping condition is not satisfied, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is not satisfied.

[0084] Figure 10 is a flowchart of a method for providing continuous services according to one embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 10, the electronic device (100) may perform the operations of FIG. 10 after providing continuous content (e.g., operation 520 of FIG. 5).

[0086] In operation 1005, the electronic device (100) may determine whether to transition to the unfolded position. For example, the electronic device (100) may determine whether to transition using the sensor circuit (176). If transition to the unfolded position occurs (e.g., operation 1005-YES), in operation 1020, the electronic device (100) may provide content through the first flexible display (161). If the electronic device (100) transitions to the unfolded position while a service is provided in the folded position, the user's intention may include providing content through the first flexible display (161).

[0087] If the transition to the unfolded position is not made (e.g., operation 1005-NO), in operation 1010, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a termination input is received. For example, if an input is received for a physical button of the electronic device (100), the electronic device (100) may determine that a termination input has been received. In one example, if operation 520 of FIG. 5 is performed, the electronic device (100) may display a user interface (e.g., an icon or button) for terminating content provision in an area of ​​the second display (162). If an input for the user interface is received, the electronic device (100) may determine that a termination input has been received. In one example, the electronic device (100) may display the user interface for termination only for a specified time after the transition to the folded position. If a termination input is not received (e.g., operation 1010-NO), the electronic device (100) can monitor whether a state transition and termination input are received.

[0088] If a termination input is received (e.g., operation 1010-YES), in operation 1015, the electronic device (100) may control the second display (162) to a standby state or an off state. In this case, the electronic device (100) may terminate the running application or run the application in the background.

[0089] Figure 11 is a flowchart of a method for providing continuous services according to one embodiment.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 11, the electronic device (100) can perform the operations of FIG. 11 after controlling the second display (162) (e.g., operation 525 of FIG. 5).

[0091] In operation 1105, the electronic device (100) may determine whether the first application is a designated application. For example, the designated application may be an application that provides multimedia content (e.g., a video playback application, a video streaming application, a game application, etc.). Multimedia content may be referred to as content including audio content and video content. In one example, the designated application may include an application set by a user or a manufacturer. In one example, operation 1105 may be omitted. In this case, operations 1105 and 1115 may be omitted from the operations of FIG. 11.

[0092] If the first application is a designated application (e.g., operation 1105-YES), in operation 1115, the electronic device (100) may provide a portion of the content. For example, the electronic device (100) may maintain the execution state of the first application, but may stop providing the execution screen or reduce the execution performance. For example, the electronic device (100) may run the first application in the background.

[0093] For example, if the first application is a video playback application or a video streaming application, the electronic device (100) may provide audio content among the content of the first application. The electronic device (100) may control the second display (162) to a standby or off state and may not provide the execution screen of the first application.

[0094] For example, if the first application is a game application, the electronic device (100) may provide the execution screen of the first application at low brightness. For example, the electronic device (100) may display the execution screen on the second display (162) in a standby state. In this case, the electronic device (100) may release the priority mode for the first application (e.g., the processing performance enhancement mode for the game application).

[0095] If the first application is not a designated application (e.g., operation 1105-NO), in operation 1110, the electronic device (100) may suspend the process of the first application and start a timer. Suspending the process may mean that the execution state of the process is preserved. If the process is suspended, the process may run in the background. In one example, the timer may have a designated length (e.g., 5 seconds). For example, if the first application is an Internet browser, the electronic device (100) may perform operation 1110.

[0096] In operation 1120, the electronic device (100) may determine whether a specified input is received before the timer expires. For example, the specified input may include a transition to the unfolded position or a change in the orientation of the second display (162). If the electronic device (100) is unfolded again before the timer expires, the user may want to continue using the first application. Before the timer expires, the orientation of the second display (162) of the electronic device (100) may be changed to the first orientation of the first flexible display (161) in the unfolded position. In this case, the user may want to continue using the first application through the second display (162) by turning the electronic device (100) over.

[0097] When a specified input is received (e.g., operation 1120-YES), in operation 1120, the electronic device (100) may provide content through the first flexible display (161) or the second display (162). For example, the electronic device (100) may unfold again before the timer expires. In this case, the electronic device (100) may provide content of the first application through the first flexible display (161). For example, if the orientation of the electronic device (100) is changed such that the direction of the second display (162) corresponds to the first direction (e.g., the first direction (701) of FIG. 7) before the timer expires, the electronic device (100) may provide content of the first application through the second display (162).

[0098] If the specified input is not received (e.g., operation 1120-NO), in operation 1130, the electronic device (100) may terminate the process of the first application. For example, the electronic device (100) may terminate the process when a timer expires.

[0099] Figure 12 illustrates an example of a transition to a half-fold position.

[0100] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 12 , according to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can provide service continuity when transitioning to the half-fold position. With reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 , methods for providing service continuity when transitioning from the unfolded position to the folded position have been described. However, even when transitioning from the unfolded position to the half-fold position, the electronic device (100) can perform the aforementioned methods.

[0101] For example, a user (1299) can execute a camera application using the electronic device (100) in the unfolded position. The electronic device (100) can provide content (e.g., a preview screen and UI) of the camera application through the first flexible display (161). The user (1299) can take a selfie using the front camera (181). In the unfolded position, the electronic device (100) can identify a first direction (1201) (e.g., the first direction (701) of FIG. 7) using the sensor circuit (176). The electronic device (100) can identify the user (1299) from an image acquired using the front camera (181). For example, the electronic device (100) can identify the user (1299) based on image recognition.

[0102] A user (1299) can transition the electronic device (100) to a half-fold position. The electronic device (100) can detect the position transition using a sensor circuit (176). In response to the position transition, the electronic device (100) can determine whether a specified condition is satisfied (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5).

[0103] For example, the electronic device (100) can identify a second direction (1202) (e.g., the second direction (702) of FIG. 7) using the sensor circuit (176) in the half-fold position. The electronic device (100) can identify a user (1299) from an image acquired using the rear camera (182).

[0104] In one example, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied if the first direction (1201) corresponds to the second direction (1202). In one example, the electronic device (100) may determine that the specified condition is satisfied if the user (1299) is identified from an image acquired using the rear camera (182) corresponding to the first direction (1201) and the second direction (1202). If the specified condition is satisfied, the electronic device (100) may provide content of the camera application through the second display (162) (e.g., operation 520 of FIG. 5). The electronic device (100) may provide an image acquired using the rear camera (182) through the second display (162).

[0105] Figure 13 is a flowchart of a content provision method according to one embodiment.

[0106] An electronic device according to an embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1, the electronic device (100a) of FIGS. 2A to 2C, and the electronic device (100b) of FIG. 3) may provide content based on a transition to a folded position. A housing of the electronic device may include a first housing (e.g., the first housing (111) of FIGS. 2A to 3) and a second housing (e.g., the second housing (112) of FIGS. 2A to 3) configured to be rotatably engaged with the first housing between a folded position and an unfolded position. The electronic device may include a first flexible display (e.g., the first flexible display (161) of FIG. 1) visible from a front side of the housing in an unfolded position and a second display (e.g., the second display (162) of FIG. 1) visible from a rear side of the housing in the unfolded position. The electronic device may include at least one sensor circuit (e.g., the sensor circuit (176) of FIG. 1) configured to detect a transition between the folded position and the unfolded position of the housing and to detect an orientation of the housing. The electronic device may include a processor (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1) electrically connected to the first flexible display, the second display, and the at least one sensor circuit. The electronic device may include a memory (e.g., the memory (120) of FIG. 1) electrically connected to the processor. The memory may store instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations described below.

[0107] In operation 1305, the electronic device may provide content via the first flexible display in the unfolded position. For example, the electronic device may provide content corresponding to the first application by executing the first application. Operation 1305 may correspond to operation 505 of FIG. 5 .

[0108] In operation 1310, the electronic device may detect a transition to the folded position. The electronic device may detect the transition from the unfolded position to the folded position using at least one sensor circuit. For example, operation 1310 may correspond to operation 510 of FIG. 5 .

[0109] In operation 1315, the electronic device can identify a second direction in which the second display faces in the folded position. For example, the electronic device can acquire a first direction (e.g., the first direction (701) of FIG. 7 ) using at least one sensor when the transition from the unfolded position to the folded position begins. The electronic device can acquire a second direction (e.g., the second direction (702) of FIG. 7 ) using at least one sensor when the transition from the unfolded position to the folded position is completed. For example, the electronic device can acquire the first direction and the second direction according to the methods described above with respect to FIGS. 6 and 7 .

[0110] At operation 1320, the electronic device may determine whether the second direction corresponds to the first direction (e.g., operation 515 of FIG. 5 ). If the angle between the first direction and the second direction is within a specified angle, the first direction may correspond to the second direction. If the first direction and the second direction are substantially the same, the first direction may correspond to the second direction.

[0111] If the second direction corresponds to the first direction (e.g., operation 1320-YES), then in operation 1325, the electronic device may provide content through the second display. For example, operation 1320 may correspond to operation 520 of FIG. 5.

[0112] If the second direction does not correspond to the first direction (e.g., operation 1320-NO), in operation 1330, the electronic device may control the second display to a standby state or an off state and maintain the execution state of the first application for a specified time period. For example, operation 1330 may correspond to operation 525 of FIG. 5. If the second direction does not correspond to the first direction and the first application is not a specified application, the electronic device may control the second display to a standby state or an off state and start a timer corresponding to the specified time period (e.g., operation 1110 of FIG. 11). If the second direction does not correspond to the first direction and the first application is a specified application, the electronic device may control the second display to a standby state or an off state and output audio content corresponding to the first application (e.g., operation 1115 of FIG. 11). If a specified input is not received within a specified time interval, the electronic device may terminate the first application (e.g., operation 1130 of FIG. 11).

[0113] For example, if a specified input is received within a specified time interval, the electronic device may provide content corresponding to the first application through the second display (e.g., operation 1125 of FIG. 11). The specified input may include a change in direction corresponding to the first direction in which the second display faces after transitioning to the fold position.

[0114] For example, if a specified input is received within a specified time interval, the electronic device may provide content corresponding to a first application through the first flexible display (e.g., operation 1125 of FIG. 11). The specified input may include a transition from a folded position of the housing to an unfolded position, followed by a transition to a folded position.

[0115] In one example, at least one sensor circuit may be configured to detect the altitude of the electronic device. The electronic device may terminate the first application if the difference between the first altitude before transitioning to the fold position and the second altitude after transitioning to the fold position is greater than or equal to a specified value.

[0116] In one example, at least one sensor circuit may be configured to detect a grip on the electronic device. The electronic device may terminate the first application if the surface on which the second housing or the second display is positioned is identified as gripped after transitioning to the folded position.

[0117] In one example, at least one sensor circuit may be configured to detect a blocking of the second display. The electronic device may terminate the first application if at least a portion of the second display is identified as being blocked after transitioning to the fold position.

[0118] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of an electronic device (1401) within a network environment (1400) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 14, in the network environment (1400), the electronic device (1401) may communicate with the electronic device (1402) via a first network (1498) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (1404) or the server (1408) via a second network (1499) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1401) may communicate with the electronic device (1404) via the server (1408). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1401) may include a processor (1420), a memory (1430), an input module (1450), an audio output module (1455), a display module (1460), an audio module (1470), a sensor module (1476), an interface (1477), a connection terminal (1478), a haptic module (1479), a camera module (1480), a power management module (1488), a battery (1489), a communication module (1490), a subscriber identification module (1496), or an antenna module (1497). In some embodiments, the electronic device (1401) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (1478)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (1476), camera module (1480), or antenna module (1497)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (1460)).

[0119] The processor (1420) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (1440)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (1401) connected to the processor (1420) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1420) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (1476) or a communication module (1490)) in a volatile memory (1432), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (1432), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (1434). According to one embodiment, the processor (1420) may include a main processor (1421) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (1423) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (1421). For example, when the electronic device (1401) includes the main processor (1421) and the auxiliary processor (1423), the auxiliary processor (1423) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (1421) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (1423) may be implemented separately from the main processor (1421) or as a part thereof.

[0120] The auxiliary processor (1423) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., the display module (1460), the sensor module (1476), or the communication module (1490)) of the electronic device (1401), for example, on behalf of the main processor (1421) while the main processor (1421) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (1421) while the main processor (1421) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1423) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (1480) or a communication module (1490)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1423) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (1401) where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (1408)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0121] The memory (1430) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor (1420) or the sensor module (1476)) of the electronic device (1401). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., the program (1440)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (1430) can include volatile memory (1432) or non-volatile memory (1434).

[0122] The program (1440) may be stored as software in memory (1430) and may include, for example, an operating system (1442), middleware (1444), or an application (1446).

[0123] The input module (1450) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (1401) (e.g., a processor (1420)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1401). The input module (1450) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0124] The audio output module (1455) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (1401). The audio output module (1455) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0125] The display module (1460) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (1401). The display module (1460) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (1460) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0126] The audio module (1470) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa. According to one embodiment, the audio module (1470) can acquire sound through the input module (1450), output sound through the sound output module (1455), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1402)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (1401).

[0127] The sensor module (1476) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (1401) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (1476) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0128] The interface (1477) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (1401) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1402)). In one embodiment, the interface (1477) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0129] The connection terminal (1478) may include a connector through which the electronic device (1401) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1402)). In one embodiment, the connection terminal (1478) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0130] The haptic module (1479) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (1479) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0131] The camera module (1480) can capture still images and videos. In one embodiment, the camera module (1480) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0132] The power management module (1488) can manage the power supplied to the electronic device (1401). According to one embodiment, the power management module (1488) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0133] A battery (1489) may power at least one component of the electronic device (1401). In one embodiment, the battery (1489) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0134] The communication module (1490) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (1401) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1402), electronic device (1404), or server (1408)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1490) may operate independently from the processor (1420) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (1490) may include a wireless communication module (1492) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (1494) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (1404) via a first network (1498) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (1499) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a local area network or a wide area network)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (1492) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (1401) within a communication network such as the first network (1498) or the second network (1499) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (1496).

[0135] The wireless communication module (1492) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimizing terminal power and connecting multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency communications (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (1492) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (1492) may support various technologies for securing performance in high-frequency bands, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (1492) may support various requirements specified in the electronic device (1401), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1404)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (1499)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (1492) may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB implementation, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC implementation, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC implementation.

[0136] The antenna module (1497) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (1497) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (1497) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (1498) or the second network (1499), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (1490). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (1490) and the external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (1497).

[0137] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (1497) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high frequency band.

[0138] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0139] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (1401) and an external electronic device (1404) via a server (1408) connected to a second network (1499). Each of the external electronic devices (1402 or 1404) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (1401). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (1401) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (1402, 1404, or 1408). For example, when the electronic device (1401) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (1401) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (1401). The electronic device (1401) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (1401) may provide an ultra-low latency service using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (1404) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (1408) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (1404) or server (1408) may be included within the second network (1499). The electronic device (1401) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart homes, smart cities, smart cars, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0140] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0141] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "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" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0142] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0143] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (1440)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (1436) or an external memory (1438)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (1401)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (1420)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (1401)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0145] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In electronic devices (100, 100a, 100b), A housing comprising a first housing (111) and a second housing (112) configured to be rotatably engaged with the first housing between a folded position and an unfolded position; A first flexible display (161) visible from the front side of the housing in the unfolded position; A second display (162) visible from the rear of the housing in the unfolded position; At least one sensor circuit (176) configured to detect a transition between the folded position and the unfolded position of the housing and to detect an orientation of the housing; At least one processor (120) electrically connected to the first flexible display, the second display, and the at least one sensor circuit; and A memory (130) electrically connected to the processor, wherein the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the electronic device to: By executing the first application in the unfolded position, content corresponding to the first application is provided through the first flexible display, During the provision of said content through said first flexible display, detecting a transition of said housing from said unfolded position to said folded position using said at least one sensor circuit, Based on the detection of the above transition, a second direction toward which the second display faces in the fold position is identified, Providing content corresponding to the first application through the second display based on the second direction corresponding to the first direction in which the front of the housing faces before transitioning from the unfolded position to the folded position, An electronic device storing instructions for controlling the second display to a standby state or an off state and maintaining the execution state of the first application for a specified time period based on the second direction not corresponding to the first direction.

2. In paragraph 1, An electronic device wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to terminate the first application if a specified input is not received within the specified time period.

3. In paragraph 2, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to provide content corresponding to the first application through the second display when the specified input is received within the specified time period, An electronic device, wherein the above-mentioned specified input includes a change in the direction corresponding to the first direction in which the second display faces after transitioning to the fold position.

4. In paragraph 2, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to provide content corresponding to the first application through the first flexible display when the specified input is received within the specified time period, An electronic device wherein said specified input comprises a transition of said housing from said folded position to said unfolded position after a transition to said folded position.

5. In paragraph 1, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: If the second direction does not correspond to the first direction and the first application is not a designated application, control the second display to a standby or off state and start a timer corresponding to the designated time period; An electronic device that controls the second display to a standby state or an off state and outputs audio content corresponding to the first application when the second direction does not correspond to the first direction and the first application is the designated application.

6. In paragraph 1, The above instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: At a point in time when a transition from the unfolded position to the folded position begins, the first direction is acquired using the at least one sensor, An electronic device that obtains the second direction using the at least one sensor at a time when the transition from the unfolded position to the folded position is completed.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein said at least one sensor circuit is further configured to detect an altitude of said electronic device; An electronic device wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to terminate the first application if a difference between a first altitude before a transition from the unfolded position to the folded position and a second altitude after a transition from the unfolded position to the folded position is greater than or equal to a specified value.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The at least one sensor circuit is further configured to detect a grip on the electronic device, The electronic device wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to terminate the first application if the surface on which the second housing or the second display is positioned is identified as being gripped after the transition from the unfolded position to the folded position.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The at least one sensor circuit is further configured to detect a shielding of the second display, The electronic device wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to terminate the first application if at least a portion of the second display is identified as being obscured after a transition from the unfolded position to the folded position.

10. A method of an electronic device having a housing including a first housing and a second housing configured to be rotatably engaged with the first housing, An operation of providing content corresponding to the first application through a first flexible display visible from a front side of the housing in the unfolded position by executing a first application in the unfolded position of the housing; An operation of detecting a transition of the housing from the unfolded position to the folded position during provision of the content through the first flexible display; An operation of identifying a second direction in which a second display disposed on the rear side of the second housing faces in the fold position based on detection of a transition to the fold position; An operation of providing content corresponding to the first application through the second display based on the second direction corresponding to the first direction in which the front of the housing faces before transitioning to the fold position; and A method comprising: controlling the second display to a standby state or an off state based on the second direction not corresponding to the first direction, and maintaining the execution state of the first application for a specified time period.

11. In Article 10, A method further comprising an action of terminating the first application if a specified input is not received within the specified time period.

12. In paragraph 11, Further comprising an action of providing content corresponding to the first application through the second display when the specified input is received within the specified time period; A method wherein the above-mentioned specified input comprises a change in the direction corresponding to the first direction in which the second display faces after transitioning to the fold position.

13. In paragraph 11, Further comprising an action of providing content corresponding to the first application through the first flexible display when the specified input is received within the specified time period; A method wherein the specified input comprises a transition of the housing from the folded position to the unfolded position after a transition to the folded position.

14. In paragraph 10, If the second direction does not correspond to the first direction and the first application is not a designated application, an operation of controlling the second display to a standby state or an off state and starting a timer corresponding to the designated time period; and A method further comprising: if the second direction does not correspond to the first direction and the first application is the designated application, controlling the second display to a standby state or an off state and outputting audio content corresponding to the first application.

15. In a computer-readable medium, When executed by a processor of an electronic device having a housing including a first housing and a second housing configured to be rotatably engaged with the first housing, the electronic device, An operation of providing content corresponding to the first application through a first flexible display visible from a front side of the housing in the unfolded position by executing a first application in the unfolded position of the housing; An operation of detecting a transition of the housing from the unfolded position to the folded position during provision of the content through the first flexible display; An operation of identifying a second direction in which a second display disposed on the rear side of the second housing faces in the fold position based on detection of a transition to the fold position; An operation of providing content corresponding to the first application through the second display based on the second direction corresponding to the first direction in which the front of the housing faces before transitioning to the fold position; and A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions for controlling the second display to a standby state or an off state and maintaining the execution state of the first application for a specified time period based on the second direction not corresponding to the first direction.

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