Electronic device and method for controlling one or more speakers

Abstract

The electronic device may comprise: a first speaker for outputting a first sound signal; a second speaker for outputting a second sound signal; and a processor. When the electronic device is in a first state in which the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a specified distance, the processor may output the first sound signal through the first speaker and output the second sound signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase distinct from the phase of the first sound signal. When the electronic device is in a second state in which the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is equal to or greater than the specified distance, the processor may output the first sound signal through the first speaker and output the second sound signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase corresponding to the phase of the first sound signal.

Description

Electronic device and method for controlling one or more speakers

[0001] The descriptions below relate to electronic devices and methods for controlling one or more speakers.

[0002] The shape and / or size of electronic devices are diversifying. To enhance mobility, electronic devices with reduced size and / or volume are being designed. As the housings of electronic devices change in position, various configurations can be achieved. In other words, electronic devices are being designed to be increasingly compact for enhanced portability.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art 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 related to the present disclosure.

[0004] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first speaker for outputting a first acoustic signal, a second speaker for outputting a second acoustic signal, and a processor operably coupled to the first speaker and the second speaker. The processor may be configured to output the first acoustic signal through the first speaker and output the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase distinct from a phase of the first acoustic signal when the electronic device is in a first state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a specified distance. The processor may be configured to output the first acoustic signal through the first speaker and output the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase corresponding to a phase of the first acoustic signal when the electronic device is in a second state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the specified distance.

[0005] According to one embodiment, a method performed in an electronic device may include, when the electronic device is in a first state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a specified distance, outputting the first acoustic signal through the first speaker, and outputting the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase distinct from a phase of the first acoustic signal. The method may include, when the electronic device is in a second state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the specified distance, outputting the first acoustic signal through the first speaker, and outputting the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase corresponding to a phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0006] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that sound performance can be improved by outputting a first audio signal and a second audio signal from a first speaker and a second speaker depending on the distance or separation between the first speaker and the second speaker.

[0007] In one embodiment, when the first speaker and the second speaker are separated by a threshold distance or more, outputting a second audio signal having a phase corresponding to the first audio signal produces a stereo performance effect. The phase of the second signal corresponding to the phase of the first signal may mean that the phases of the first signal and the second signal are identical.

[0008] According to one embodiment, when the first speaker and the second speaker are separated by a distance less than the threshold distance, there is an advantage in that sound leakage from the rear of the electronic device can be reduced by outputting a second audio signal having a different phase from the first audio signal. When the phase of the second signal is different from the phase of the first signal, this may mean that the phases of the first signal and the second signal are opposite.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3a shows an example of an opening in a housing for emitting an acoustic signal.

[0012] Figure 3b shows an example of a cross-sectional view for explaining a conduit through which an acoustic signal is output.

[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate examples of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate examples of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0024] The processor (120) may control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)), and may perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculation, the processor (120) may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the command or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (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 therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0025] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (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 (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (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 (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). 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.

[0026] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0027] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0028] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) 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).

[0029] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) 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. According to one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0030] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) 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.

[0031] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0032] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) 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 (176) 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.

[0033] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0034] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0035] A haptic module (179) 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. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0036] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0037] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0038] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0039] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (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 (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (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 (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (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 LAN or WAN)). 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 (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0040] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, 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 (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, 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 realization.

[0041] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) 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 (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to 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 (197).

[0042] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to 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.

[0043] 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)).

[0044] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service by 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 (101). The electronic device (101) 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 (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0045] In the following specification, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) including one or more speakers is described. The state of the electronic device may change depending on changes in the positions of the housings (or housing parts) of the electronic device. The electronic device may output an acoustic signal using one or more speakers through an opening (or hole) configured in the housing of the electronic device. While a designated application (e.g., a phone application) is running on the electronic device, an acoustic signal (e.g., a voice signal) may be emitted to the outside through one or more speakers. Since the acoustic signal is emitted omnidirectionally, the acoustic signal may be emitted not only in the direction toward the user (or the user's ear), but also in a direction other than the direction. An acoustic signal emitted in a direction other than the direction may cause discomfort to the user. Therefore, in the following specification, technical features for reducing the size of an acoustic signal emitted in the other direction will be described.

[0046] FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 2, the electronic device (200) may include a processor (210), a display (220), and / or a speaker (230). Depending on the embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include at least one of the processor (210), the display (220), and the speaker (230). For example, at least some of the processor (210), the display (220), and the speaker (230) may be omitted depending on the embodiment. For example, the electronic device (200) may include at least some of the components of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1. Although not illustrated, the electronic device (200) may include various components in addition to the processor (210), the display (220), and the speaker (230).

[0048] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may correspond to the processor (120) of FIG. 1. The processor (210) may be operatively or operably coupled with or connected to the display (220) and the speaker (230). The processor (210) being operatively or operably coupled with the display (220) and the speaker (230) may mean that the processor (210) can control the display (220) and the speaker (230). For example, the display (220) and the speaker (230) may be controlled by the processor (210).

[0049] Although illustrated based on different blocks, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and some of the hardware of FIG. 2 (e.g., at least a portion of the processor (210), the display (220), and the speaker (230)) may be included in a single integrated circuit, such as a system on a chip (SoC).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may include at least one processor. For example, the processor (210) may include a main processor that performs high-performance processing and a secondary processor that performs low-power processing.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may include a hardware component for processing data based on one or more instructions. The hardware component for processing data may include, for example, an arithmetic and logic unit (ALU), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and / or a central processing unit (CPU).

[0052] For example, the processor (210) may include an application processor, a supplementary processor (e.g., a sensor hub, a microcontroller unit (MCU)), a central processor unit (CPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), a graphic processing unit (GPU), and / or a processor for IoT (e.g., a processor integrated with a communication module).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a display (220). For example, the display (220) may correspond to the display module (160) of FIG. 1. For example, the display (220) may be deformable by an external force applied to the display (220). The display (220) may be referred to as a flexible display. Specific examples of the display (220) disposed in the electronic device (200) will be described based on the form factors of the electronic device (200) described below.

[0054] For example, a display (220) of an electronic device (200) may output visualized information to a user. The display (220) may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP), one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), and / or one or more organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). In one embodiment, the display (220) may include a sensor (e.g., a touch sensor panel (TSP)) for detecting an external object (e.g., a user's finger) on the display (220).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a speaker (230). The speaker (230) of the electronic device (200) may be configured to output an acoustic signal provided from the processor (210). Signal paths electrically connecting the processor (210) and the speaker (230) may include at least one switch (e.g., a transistor) and / or an amplifier controlled by the processor (210). The processor (210) may change the volume and / or frequency of the speaker (230) using the switch and / or amplifier on the signal path. The processor (210) may activate or deactivate the speaker (230) by changing the voltage and / or current of a power signal provided to the speaker (230).

[0056] For example, the speaker (230) may include one or more speakers. Electrical paths may be formed to electrically connect the processor (210) and each of the one or more speakers. The electrical paths may be implemented independently. The processor (210) may individually control one or more speakers based on the independently implemented electrical paths.

[0057] For example, the speaker (230) may include a first speaker (231) and / or a second speaker (232). The state of the electronic device (200) may be identified based on the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232).

[0058] For example, the first speaker (231) may be disposed on the first housing of the electronic device (200). The second speaker (232) may be disposed on the second housing of the electronic device (200). The distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may change as the positions of the first and second housings change. For example, the first and second housings may be rotatably coupled using a hinge disposed between the two housings. As the angle between the two housings changes, the distance between the speakers disposed in each of the two housings may also change. As another example, the first and second housings may be slidably coupled so that the housings may undergo relative translational motion. As one or both of the housings undergoes translational or sliding motion, the distance between the speakers disposed in the two housings may change.

[0059] For example, the state of the electronic device (200) may be identified as the first state based on the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) being less than a specified distance. For example, the state of the electronic device (200) may be identified as the second state based on the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) being greater than or equal to a specified distance.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the arrangement of the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) within the housing (e.g., the first housing or the second housing) of the electronic device (200) may be changed. In the following specification, examples of the arrangement of the speakers (230) (e.g., the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232)) according to the shape (e.g., the form factor) of various electronic devices (200) will be described. The processor (210) may change the sound signals output from the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) based on the state of the electronic device (200) in a state in which the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) are arranged according to the shape of various electronic devices (200).

[0061] For example, the first speaker (231) can perform the function of a speaker and the function of a receiver. The second speaker (232) can only perform the function of a speaker. When the first speaker (231) that can perform the function of a speaker and the function of a receiver is placed within the housing of the electronic device (200), the openings (or holes) of the housing for emitting the first acoustic signal output through the first speaker (231) can be implemented in two (or two directions). When the second speaker (232) that can only perform the function of a speaker is placed within the housing of the electronic device (200), the openings (or holes) of the housing for emitting the second acoustic signal output through the second speaker (232) can be implemented in one.

[0062] An example of a structure in which two (or two directions) openings (or holes) of a housing for emitting acoustic signals are implemented will be described through FIGS. 3a and 3b.

[0063] Although not illustrated in FIG. 2, the electronic device (200) may further include various components. For example, the electronic device (200) may further include a sensor. For example, the sensor may be used to identify a positional relationship between housings of the electronic device (200). As an example, the sensor (e.g., a Hall sensor) may be used to identify an angle between the housings. The processor (210) may use the sensor to identify a positional relationship between the housings (e.g., an angle between the housings), and based on the identified positional relationship, identify a distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232).

[0064] Figure 3a shows an example of an opening in a housing for emitting an acoustic signal.

[0065] Fig. 3b illustrates an example of a cross-sectional view for explaining a conduit through which an acoustic signal is output. Fig. 3b is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of Fig. 3a.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 3A, the electronic device (200) may correspond to the electronic device (200) of FIG. 2. The electronic device (200) may include an opening (310) formed on a front surface (330A) and an opening (320) formed on a side surface (330C). The housing of the electronic device (200) may include an opening (310) formed on a front surface (330A) of the electronic device (200) and an opening (320) formed on a side surface (330C) of the electronic device (200).

[0067] For example, the opening (310) may be formed to emit an acoustic signal output (or generated) through the speaker (230) in the direction (D1). The opening (320) may be formed to emit an acoustic signal output (or generated) through the speaker (230) in the direction (D2). For example, the opening (310) may be formed as a single hole. For example, the opening (320) may be formed as a plurality of holes. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the opening (310) may be formed as a plurality of holes. For example, the opening (320) may also be formed as a single hole.

[0068] For example, an acoustic signal may be output in a direction (D1) (or front (330A)) toward which the display (220) faces through the opening (310), and an acoustic signal may be output in a second direction (D2) (or side (330C)) through the opening (320). For example, the direction (D2) may be substantially perpendicular to the direction (D1). The direction (D2) may be substantially parallel to the front (330A) that is perpendicular to the direction (D1), but is not limited thereto.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 3B, the electronic device (200) may include at least one conduit for transmitting an acoustic signal output from a first speaker (231) capable of performing the functions of a speaker and a receiver to the outside. For example, the electronic device (200) may include a first conduit (351), a second conduit (352), and a third conduit (353). The first conduit (351) may be directly connected to the first speaker (231). The second conduit (352) may extend from the first conduit (351) to the opening (320). The third conduit (353) may extend from the first conduit (351) to the opening (310).

[0070] A first acoustic signal output through the first speaker (231) may be emitted through the first conduit (351) to the second conduit (352) and the third conduit (353). A portion of the first acoustic signal may be emitted from the opening (320) through the second conduit (352). A portion of the first acoustic signal emitted from the opening (320) may be emitted in the direction (D2). A remaining portion of the first acoustic signal may be emitted from the opening (310) through the third conduit (353). A remaining portion of the first acoustic signal emitted from the opening (310) may be emitted in the direction (D1).

[0071] Although not illustrated, the opening for the second speaker (232) capable of performing the speaker function may be formed as one. In FIG. 3B, when the second speaker (232) is placed within the housing of the electronic device (200), the opening (310) may not be formed. The second acoustic signal output through the second speaker (232) may be emitted only through the opening (320). The second acoustic signal emitted from the opening (320) may be emitted in the direction (D2).

[0072] As described above, the first acoustic signal output through the first speaker (231) can be emitted in the direction (D1) and the direction (D2). Depending on the function of the application, the first acoustic signal (or a part of the first acoustic signal) emitted in the direction (D2) can be treated as leakage sound. For example, when a phone application is executed in the electronic device (200) and a user makes a call to another user using the electronic device (200), the user can hear the first acoustic signal (or another part of the first acoustic signal) emitted in the direction (D1) through the opening (310). The first acoustic signal (or a part of the first acoustic signal) emitted in the direction (D2) through the opening (320) can be treated as leakage sound. Accordingly, the electronic device (200) can perform an operation to reduce the size of the first acoustic signal (or a part of the first acoustic signal) emitted in the direction (D2) through the opening (320).

[0073] For example, while the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is less than a specified distance, the second acoustic signal output through the second speaker (232) may be emitted in the direction (D2). The processor (210) may reduce the magnitude of the first acoustic signal (or a portion of the first acoustic signal) emitted in the direction (D2) through the first speaker (231) by outputting the second acoustic signal having a phase that is distinct from (e.g., an opposite phase) the phase of the first acoustic signal output from the first speaker (231) through the second speaker (232).

[0074] Figure 4 illustrates a flowchart of the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment. In the following embodiments, the operations may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily sequential. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel.

[0075] In operation 410, the processor (210) may identify a state of the electronic device (200). The processor (210) may identify the state of the electronic device (200) as one of a first state and a second state.

[0076] For example, the first state may include a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is less than a specified distance, or a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is less than a specified distance. The second state may include a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is greater than a specified distance, or a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is greater than a specified distance.

[0077] For example, the first state may include a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is within a specified distance, or a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is within a specified distance. The second state may include a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is outside a specified distance, or a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is outside a specified distance.

[0078] For example, the first state may include a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is the shortest among the states of the electronic device (200), or may be a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is the shortest. While the state of the electronic device (200) is the first state, the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be the shortest. In other words, the first state may be a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is the minimum distance among the distance ranges possible for the electronic device (200). For example, when the electronic device (200) is a foldable electronic device, the minimum distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may occur when the foldable electronic device is completely folded. The second state may include a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is the greatest among the states of the electronic device (200). While the state of the electronic device (200) is the second state, the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be the greatest. In other words, the second state may be a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is the greatest distance among the distance ranges possible for the electronic device (200). For example, when the electronic device (200) is a foldable electronic device, the greatest distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may occur when the foldable electronic device is in a fully unfolded state.

[0079] For example, the first state may include a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is the shortest among the states of the electronic device (200). While the state of the electronic device (200) is the first state, the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be the shortest. The second state may include a state in which the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is not the minimum distance among the possible distance ranges with the electronic device (200).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the first speaker (231) can perform both the function of a speaker and the function of a receiver. The second speaker (232) can perform only the function of a speaker.

[0081] For example, when a first speaker (231) is placed within the housing of the electronic device (200), two openings (or holes) of the housing for emitting a first acoustic signal output through the first speaker (231) may be formed in two directions. When a second speaker (232) that can only perform the function of a speaker is placed within the housing of the electronic device (200), one opening (or hole) of the housing for emitting a second acoustic signal output through the second speaker (232) may be formed.

[0082] For example, the first speaker (231) may be arranged to emit a first acoustic signal through the first opening and the third opening. The second speaker (232) may be arranged to emit a second acoustic signal through the second opening. Each of the first opening, the second opening, and the third opening may be different openings.

[0083] For example, a first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing to emit a first acoustic signal in a first direction through a first opening. The first speaker (231) may be positioned to emit the first acoustic signal in a second direction through a third opening. The second direction may be different from the first direction because the positions of the first and third openings are different. The first acoustic signal (or a portion of the first acoustic signal) may be emitted in the first direction through the first opening. The first acoustic signal (or a remaining portion of the first acoustic signal) may be emitted in a second direction, distinct from (or different from) the first direction, through the third opening. The second direction may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction. For example, a second speaker (232) may be positioned within the second housing to emit a second acoustic signal in the first direction through the second opening.

[0084] In operation 420, the processor (210) may identify whether the state of the electronic device (200) is the first state. For example, the processor (210) may identify whether the state of the electronic device (200) is the first state based on identifying whether the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is less than a specified or pre-determined distance.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may also identify whether the state of the electronic device (200) is the second state. For example, the processor (210) may identify whether the state of the electronic device (200) is the second state based on identifying whether the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) is greater than or equal to a specified or pre-determined distance. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may determine the state of the electronic device (200) based on a positional relationship between the housings of the electronic device (200). The positional relationship between the first housing and the second housing of the electronic device (200) may indicate a distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232).

[0086] In operation 430, when the state of the electronic device (200) is the first state, the processor (210) may output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase that is distinct from (i.e., different from or opposite to) the phase of the first acoustic signal. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase that is distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. For example, the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal may be generated based on the same sound source.

[0087] According to one embodiment, a first acoustic signal output by the first speaker (231) may be emitted through the first opening and the third opening. A portion of the first acoustic signal may be emitted in a first direction through the first opening. A remaining portion of the first acoustic signal may be emitted in a second direction through the third opening. A second acoustic signal output by the second speaker (232) may be emitted through the second opening. The second acoustic signal may be emitted in the first direction through the second opening.

[0088] For example, the phase of the second acoustic signal may be opposite to the phase of the first acoustic signal. The second acoustic signal may have a phase corresponding to a phase opposite to the phase of the first acoustic signal. The phase of the second acoustic signal being opposite to the phase of the first acoustic signal may mean that the phase of the second acoustic signal is substantially opposite to the phase of the first acoustic signal. For example, the first phase of the first acoustic signal may be substantially opposite to the second phase of the second acoustic signal. For example, the phase corresponding to a phase opposite to the phase of the first acoustic signal may mean that the phase is substantially the same as a phase opposite to the phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0089] When the phase of the second acoustic signal is opposite to the phase of the first acoustic signal, a portion of the first acoustic signal emitted through the first opening and a portion of the second acoustic signal emitted through the second opening may cancel each other out. Based on the cancellation of a portion of the first acoustic signal and a portion of the second acoustic signal, only a remaining portion of the first acoustic signal emitted in the second direction through the third opening may be recognized by the user of the electronic device (200). That is, when at least a portion of the first audio signal is canceled out by a portion of the second audio signal, only a remaining portion of the first audio signal may be emitted through the third opening.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may identify the execution of a designated application (e.g., a phone application) while the state of the electronic device (200) is in the first state. While the designated application is being executed, the processor (210) may provide a service (e.g., a phone service) related to the designated application through a first acoustic signal emitted through the third opening. The direction of the first acoustic signal emitted through the third opening may be directed toward a part of the user's body (e.g., an ear or eardrum).

[0091] In order to enhance the user experience of the provided service, the processor (210) may output a second audio signal having a phase opposite (or substantially opposite) to that of the first audio signal through the second opening using the second speaker (232). When the phase of the second audio signal is opposite (or substantially opposite) to that of the first audio signal, a portion of the first audio signal emitted through the first opening and the second audio signal emitted through the second opening may cancel each other out. Accordingly, while a designated application is running, only the first audio signal emitted through the third opening may be recognized by the user, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0092] According to an embodiment, while a phone application is running, the phase of a second audio signal output from a second speaker (232) may change depending on the size (or volume) of a first audio signal output from a first speaker (231). According to an embodiment, while a phone application is running, the second audio signal (or the frequency and phase of the second audio signal) may be determined based on a voice signal received from another user. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify noise and / or leakage sound regarding an external environment using a microphone included in the electronic device (200). The processor (210) may identify (or generate) the second audio signal (or the frequency and phase of the second audio signal) based on noise and / or leakage sound regarding the external environment.

[0093] According to an embodiment, while the state of the electronic device (200) is the first state, based on the setting information regarding the specified application, the processor (210) may not perform operation 430. For example, the phone application may be set to output an audio signal in speaker mode. If the phone application is set to output an audio signal in speaker mode, the processor (210) may not perform operation 430. If the phone application is set to output an audio signal in speaker mode, the processor (210) may output a first audio signal and a second audio signal having a phase corresponding to (or substantially the same as) the phase of the first audio signal through the second opening.

[0094] According to an embodiment, even if the state of the electronic device (200) is the first state, the processor (210) may not perform operation 430 based on whether another application distinct from the specified application is being executed. For example, the processor (210) may perform operation 440 based on whether another application distinct from the specified application is being executed.

[0095] In operation 440, if the state of the electronic device (200) is not the first state, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to (or substantially the same as) the phase of the first acoustic signal through the second opening. For example, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal through the second opening based on identifying that the state of the electronic device (200) is not the first state.

[0096] For example, when the state of the electronic device (200) is the second state, the processor (210) can output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal through the second opening. For example, based on identifying that the state of the electronic device (200) is the second state, the processor (210) can output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal through the second opening.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can provide stereophonic sound based on a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal. By configuring the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal differently, the processor (210) can provide surround sound to a user of the electronic device (200).

[0098] Hereinafter, examples of the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) arranged according to the shape (or form factor, configuration, state) of the electronic device (200) will be described. In addition, examples of the operations of the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) performed based on the state of the electronic device (200) will be described.

[0099] In FIG. 5, when the electronic device (200) includes a first housing and a second housing, and the first housing and the second housing have a shape that can be folded around one axis, the arrangement and operation of the speakers (230) (e.g., the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232)) will be described. For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a foldable device that folds along a vertical axis.

[0100] In FIG. 6, when the electronic device (200) includes a first housing and a second housing, and the first housing and the second housing have a shape that can be folded based on one axis, the arrangement and operation of the speakers (230) (e.g., the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232)) will be described. For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a foldable device that folds along a horizontal axis.

[0101] In FIG. 7, when the electronic device (200) includes a first housing and a second housing, and the second housing has a shape configured to be retractable into the first housing, the arrangement and operation of the speakers (230) (e.g., the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232)) will be described. For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a rollable device that provides an extended position and a retracted position.

[0102] In FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 9, when the electronic device (200) includes a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing and has a foldable shape based on two axes, the arrangement and operation of the speakers (230) (e.g., the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232)) will be described. For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a foldable device that folds along two axes. For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a multi-foldable device that provides states including an infolded state and an unfolded state.

[0103] In FIGS. 10A and 10B , when the electronic device (200) includes a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing and has a foldable shape based on two axes, the arrangement and operation of the speakers (230) (e.g., the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232)) will be described. For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a foldable device that folds along two axes. For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a multi-foldable device that provides states including an outfolded state and an unfolded state.

[0104] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 5, the electronic device (200) may be a foldable device that folds along a vertical axis (e.g., a folding axis (593)). The electronic device (200) may include a first housing (510), a second housing (520), and a hinge structure (530). For example, the hinge structure (530) may rotatably couple the first housing (510) to the second housing (520) with respect to the folding axis (593). The display (220) (e.g., a flexible display) may be divided into a first display area (551) and a second display area (552) with respect to the folding axis (593). The first display area (551) may correspond to one side of the first housing (510). The second display area (552) may correspond to one side of the second housing (520).

[0106] The first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (510) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (501) and the third opening (503). For example, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (510) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (501) formed in the first side (511) of the first housing (510). For example, the first side (511) may be substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the first display area (551) faces.

[0107] For example, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (510) to emit a first acoustic signal through a third opening (503) formed on the opposite side of the first housing (510) corresponding to the first display area (551). For example, the third opening (503) may be formed in a direction opposite to a first direction (561) toward which the first display area (551) faces. The first acoustic signal may be emitted through the third opening (503) in a direction opposite to the first direction (561) toward which the first display area (551) faces.

[0108] The second speaker (232) may be positioned within the second housing (520) to emit the second acoustic signal through the second opening (502). For example, the second speaker (232) may be positioned within the second housing (520) to emit the second acoustic signal through the second opening (502) formed in the second side (522) of the second housing (520). For example, the second side (522) may be substantially perpendicular to the second display area (552). The second acoustic signal may not be emitted in a direction opposite to the direction in which the second display area (552) faces and the direction in which the second display area (552) faces (562). For example, the second housing (520) may be formed such that the second acoustic signal is not emitted in a direction opposite to the direction in which the second display area (552) faces (562) and the direction in which the second display area (552) faces (562).

[0109] In state (591), the first opening (501) can be formed to face a direction corresponding to the direction in which the second opening (502) faces (or the same direction as the direction in which the second opening (502) faces).

[0110] In state (591), the first direction (561) toward which the first display area (551) faces may correspond to the second direction (562) toward which the second display area (552) faces. State (591) may be referred to as an unfolding state. In state (591), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be greater than or equal to a specified distance. State (591) may be an example of the second state described in FIG. 4.

[0111] In state (591), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to (or substantially identical to) the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (571) and the direction (573) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase corresponding to (or substantially identical to) the first phase in the direction (572) through the second speaker (232).

[0112] In state (592), the first direction (561) toward which the first display area (551) faces may be opposite to the second direction (562) toward which the second display area (552) faces. State (592) may be referred to as a folding state. In state (592), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be less than a specified distance. State (592) may be an example of the first state described in FIG. 4.

[0113] In state (592), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (581) and the direction (583) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase distinct from the first phase in the direction (582) through the second speaker (232). For example, the first phase can be opposite (or substantially opposite) to the second phase. When the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (581) (or the first opening (501)) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (582) (or the second opening (502)) may cancel each other out. For example, since the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal are generated based on the same sound source, when the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (581) (or the first opening (501)) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (582) (or the second opening (502)) may cancel each other out.

[0114] The processor (210) can use the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (582) to cancel out (or remove) the first acoustic signal (or at least a portion of the first acoustic signal) emitted through the direction (581). The processor (210) can maintain the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (583). For example, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (583) can be better recognized by the user of the electronic device (200).

[0115] For example, the processor (210) may identify that a specified application (e.g., a phone application) is running in the state (592). Based on identifying that the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. As an example, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal only when the user of the electronic device (200) is on a call. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify that another application distinct from the specified application is running in the state (592). Based on identifying that another application distinct from the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0116] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 6, the electronic device (200) may be a foldable device that folds along a horizontal axis (e.g., a folding axis (693)). The electronic device (200) may include a first housing (610), a second housing (620), and a hinge structure (630). For example, the hinge structure (630) may rotatably couple the first housing (610) to the second housing (620) with respect to the folding axis (693). The display (220) (e.g., a flexible display) may be divided into a first display area (651) and a second display area (652) with respect to the folding axis (693). The first display area (651) may correspond to one side of the first housing (610). The second display area (652) may correspond to one side of the second housing (620).

[0118] The electronic device (200) may be folded such that the display (220) faces outward. For example, in a folded state (e.g., state (692)), the first display area (651) and the second display area (652) may be spaced apart from each other. The display (220) may function as part of the exterior of the electronic device (200) in the folded state.

[0119] The first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (610) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (601) and the third opening (603). For example, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (610) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (601) formed in the first side (611) of the first housing (610). For example, the first side (611) may be substantially perpendicular to the first display area (651).

[0120] For example, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (610) to emit a first acoustic signal through a third opening (603) formed on one side of the first housing (610) corresponding to the first display area (651). For example, the third opening (603) may be formed in a first direction (661) toward which the first display area (651) faces. The first acoustic signal may be emitted in the first direction (661) toward which the first display area (651) faces through the third opening (603).

[0121] The second speaker (232) may be positioned within the second housing (620) to emit the second acoustic signal through the second opening (602). For example, the second speaker (232) may be positioned within the second housing (620) to emit the second acoustic signal through the second opening (602) formed in the second side (622) of the second housing (620). For example, the second side (622) may be substantially perpendicular to the second direction (662) toward which the second display area (652) faces. The second acoustic signal may not be emitted in the second direction (662) toward which the second display area (652) faces and in the opposite direction of the second direction (662) toward which the second display area (652) faces. For example, the second housing (620) may be formed so that the second acoustic signal is not emitted in the second direction (662) toward which the second display area (652) faces and in the opposite direction of the second direction (662) toward which the second display area (652) faces.

[0122] In state (691), the first opening (601) can be formed to face a direction that is distinct from the direction in which the second opening (602) faces (or a direction opposite to the direction in which the second opening (602) faces).

[0123] In state (691), the first direction (661) toward which the first display area (651) faces may correspond to the second direction (662) toward which the second display area (652) faces. State (691) may be referred to as an unfolding state. In state (691), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be greater than or equal to a specified distance. State (691) may be an example of the second state described in FIG. 4.

[0124] In state (691), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (671) and the direction (673) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase corresponding to the first phase in the direction (672) through the second speaker (232).

[0125] In state (692), the first direction (661) toward which the first display area (651) faces may be opposite to the second direction (662) toward which the second display area (652) faces. State (692) may be referred to as a folded state. In state (692), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be less than a specified distance. State (692) may be an example of the first state described in FIG. 4.

[0126] In state (692), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (681) and the direction (683) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase distinct from the first phase in the direction (682) through the second speaker (232). For example, the first phase can be opposite to the second phase. When the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (681) (or the first opening (601)) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (682) (or the second opening (602)) may cancel each other. For example, since the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal are generated based on the same sound source, when the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (681) (or the first opening (601)) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (682) (or the second opening (602)) may cancel each other.

[0127] The processor (210) can use the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (682) to cancel out (or remove) the first acoustic signal (or at least a portion of the first acoustic signal) emitted through the direction (681). For example, the processor (210) can maintain the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (683). The first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (683) can be better recognized by the user of the electronic device (200).

[0128] For example, the processor (210) may identify that a specified application (e.g., a phone application) is running in the state (692). Based on identifying that the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. As an example, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal only when the user of the electronic device (200) is on a call. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify that another application distinct from the specified application is running in the state (692). Based on identifying that the other application distinct from the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal (or substantially the same as the phase of the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal).

[0129] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 7, the electronic device (200) may be a rollable device that provides an extended position and a retracted position. In one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (710), a second housing (720), and an actuator (not shown). For example, the actuator may be configured to move the second housing (720) relative to the first housing (710). For example, in the retracted position, the second housing (720) may be retracted into the first housing (710). In the extended position, the second housing (720) may be retracted from the first housing (710). For example, the second housing (720) (or a portion of the second housing (720)) may slide-out or slide-in with respect to the first housing (710).

[0131] The display (220) (e.g., a flexible display) can be coupled to the first housing (710) and the second housing (720) such that the display area (750) (or the size of the display area (750)) of the display (220) changes as the second housing (720) moves between a retracted position and an extended position. For example, depending on the extended position and the retracted position, the display (220) can be retracted or withdrawn from a side (713) of the first housing (710). For example, depending on the extended position and the retracted position, the display (220) can be retracted or withdrawn from a side (714) of the second housing (720). For example, as the second housing (720) slides out relative to the first housing (710), a portion of the display (220) may be extended outside the first housing (710) or the second housing (720). As the second housing (720) slides in relative to the first housing (710), a portion of the display (220) may be brought into the interior of the first housing (710) or the second housing (720).

[0132] The size of the display area (750) of the display (220) may vary depending on the reduced and extended postures. The display area (750) of the display (220) may have the smallest size in the reduced posture. The display area (750) of the display (220) may have the largest size in the extended posture.

[0133] The first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (710) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (701) and the third opening (703). For example, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (710) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (701) formed in a side surface (711) of the first housing (710). For example, the side surface (711) may be substantially perpendicular to the display area (750).

[0134] For example, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (710) to emit the first acoustic signal through a third opening (703) formed on one side of the first housing (710) corresponding to the display area (750). For example, the third opening (703) may be formed in a direction (761) toward which the display area (750) faces.

[0135] The second speaker (232) may be positioned within the second housing (720) to emit the second acoustic signal through the second opening (702). For example, the second speaker (232) may be positioned within the second housing (720) to emit the second acoustic signal through the second opening (702) formed in a side surface (712) of the second housing (720). For example, the side surface (712) may be substantially perpendicular to a direction (761) toward which the display area (750) faces. The second acoustic signal may not be emitted in the direction (761) toward which the display area (750) faces and in a direction opposite to the direction (761) toward which the display area (750) faces. For example, the second housing (720) may be formed such that the second acoustic signal is not emitted in a direction opposite to the direction (761) toward which the display area (750) faces and in a direction opposite to the direction (761) toward which the display area (750) faces.

[0136] Depending on the embodiment, the electronic device (200) may further include a third speaker (233) and / or a fourth speaker (234).

[0137] The third speaker (233) may be positioned within the first housing (710) to emit a third acoustic signal in a direction (774) through a fourth opening (704) formed in a side surface (715) of the first housing (710). For example, the side surface (715) may be substantially perpendicular to the display area (750). The direction in which the side surface (715) faces may be opposite to the direction in which the side surface (711) faces. The side surface (715) may face the side surface (711). For example, the side surface (715) may be substantially parallel to the side surface (711).

[0138] The fourth speaker (234) may be positioned within the second housing (720) to emit a fourth acoustic signal in a direction (775) through a fifth opening (705) formed in a side surface (716) of the second housing (720). For example, the side surface (716) may be substantially perpendicular to the display area (750). The direction in which the side surface (716) faces may be opposite to the direction in which the side surface (712) faces. The side surface (716) may face the side surface (712). For example, the side surface (716) may be substantially parallel to the side surface (712).

[0139] In state (791), the first opening (701) may be formed to face a direction corresponding to the direction in which the second opening (702) faces (or the direction in which the second opening (702) faces). State (791) may be referred to as an extended posture. State (791) may be a state in which the second housing (720) is slid out with respect to the first housing (710). In state (791), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be greater than a specified distance. State (791) may be an example of the second state described in FIG. 4.

[0140] In state (791), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (771) and the direction (773) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase corresponding to the first phase in the direction (772) through the second speaker (232).

[0141] In state (792), the first opening (701) may be formed to face a direction corresponding to the direction in which the second opening (702) faces (or the direction in which the second opening (702) faces). State (792) may be referred to as a reduced posture. State (792) may be a state in which the second housing (720) is slid-in with respect to the first housing (710). In state (792), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be less than a specified distance. State (791) may be an example of the first state described in FIG. 4.

[0142] In state (792), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (781) and the direction (783) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase distinct from the first phase in the direction (782) through the second speaker (232). For example, the first phase can be opposite to the second phase. When the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (781) (or the first opening (701)) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (782) (or the second opening (702)) may cancel each other out. For example, since the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal are generated based on the same sound source, when the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (781) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (782) may cancel each other out.

[0143] The processor (210) can use the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (782) to cancel out (or remove) the first acoustic signal (or at least a portion of the first acoustic signal) emitted through the direction (781). The processor (210) can maintain the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (783). The first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (783) can be better recognized by the user of the electronic device (200).

[0144] For example, the processor (210) may identify that a specified application (e.g., a phone application) is running in state (792). Based on identifying that the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. For example, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal only when the user of the electronic device (200) is on a call. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify that another application distinct from the specified application is running in state (792). Based on identifying that another application distinct from the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can provide stereophonic sound using a first speaker (231), a second speaker (232), a third speaker (233), and a fourth speaker (234).

[0146] For example, in state (791), the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal using the first speaker (231) and the third speaker (233). The processor (210) can output a second acoustic signal using the second speaker (232) and the fourth speaker (234). As an example, the frequency band of the first acoustic signal and the frequency band of the second acoustic signal can be set to be different from each other. As an example, the phase of the second acoustic signal can be set to correspond to the phase of the first acoustic signal. As an example, the phase of the second acoustic signal can be set to correspond to the phase of the first acoustic signal at least within some bands.

[0147] For example, in state (792), the processor (210) may output a first acoustic signal using a first speaker (231) and a second speaker (232). The processor (210) may output a second acoustic signal using a third speaker (233) and a fourth speaker (234). As an example, the frequency band of the first acoustic signal and the frequency band of the second acoustic signal may be set to be different from each other. The phase of the second acoustic signal may be set to correspond to the phase of the first acoustic signal. As an example, the phase of the second acoustic signal may be set to correspond to the phase of the first acoustic signal within at least some bands.

[0148] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate examples of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B , the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (810), a second housing (820), a third housing (830), a first hinge structure (851), and a second hinge structure (852). The electronic device (200) may have a foldable shape based on two axes based on the first hinge structure (851) and the second hinge structure (852). For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a multi-foldable device that provides an infolded state and an unfolded state.

[0150] The electronic device (200) may be a foldable device that folds along a first folding axis (881) and a second folding axis (882). The first hinge structure (851) may rotatably couple the first housing (810) and the second housing (820) with respect to the first folding axis (881). The second hinge structure (852) may rotatably couple the second housing (820) and the third housing (830) with respect to the second folding axis (882).

[0151] The display (220) (e.g., flexible display) may be divided into a first display area (861), a second display area (862), and a third display area (863) based on a first folding axis (881) and a second folding axis (882). The first display area (861) may correspond to one side of the first housing (810). The second display area (862) may correspond to one side of the second housing (820). The third display area (863) may correspond to one side of the third housing (830).

[0152] For example, in an unfolded state (e.g., state (891) of FIG. 8A or state (893) of FIG. 8B), the direction (864) toward which the first display area (861) faces, the direction (865) toward which the second display area (862) faces, and the direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces can be set to be substantially the same. The first display area (861), the second display area (862), and the third display area (863) can form one plane.

[0153] For example, in the infolding state (e.g., state (892) of FIG. 8A or state (894) of FIG. 8B), the direction (864) toward which the first display area (861) faces and the direction (865) toward which the second display area (862) faces may be set to be opposite to each other. In the infolding state, the direction (865) toward which the second display area (862) faces and the direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces may be set to be opposite to each other. When the state of the electronic device (200) changes from the unfolding state to the infolding state, the third housing (830) may be rotated with respect to the second housing (820). As the third housing (830) is rotated with respect to the second housing (820), the third display area (863) may come into contact with the second display area (862). After the third housing (830) is rotated relative to the second housing (820), the first housing (810) can be rotated relative to the second housing (820). As the first housing (810) is rotated relative to the second housing (820), the first display area (861) can contact a surface opposite to a surface of the third housing (830) corresponding to the third display area (863). As the first housing (810) is rotated relative to the second housing (820), the direction (864) in which the first display area (861) faces can be set to face the second display area (862) and the third display area (863).

[0154] Referring to FIG. 8A, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (810) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (801) and the third opening (803). For example, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (810) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (801) formed in a side surface (811) of the first housing (810). For example, the first side surface (811) may be substantially perpendicular to the first display area (861).

[0155] For example, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (810) to emit a first acoustic signal through a third opening (803) formed on the opposite side of the first housing (810) corresponding to the first display area (861). For example, the third opening (803) may be formed in a direction opposite to the direction (864) in which the first display area (861) faces. The first acoustic signal may be emitted through the third opening (803) in a direction opposite to the direction (864) in which the first display area (861) faces.

[0156] The second speaker (232) may be positioned within the third housing (830) to emit the second acoustic signal through the second opening (802). For example, the second speaker (232) may be positioned within the third housing (830) to emit the second acoustic signal through the second opening (802) formed in a side surface (812) of the third housing (830). For example, the side surface (812) may be substantially perpendicular to the third display area (863). The second acoustic signal may not be emitted in a direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces and in a direction opposite to the direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces. For example, the third housing (830) may be formed such that the second acoustic signal is not emitted in a direction opposite to the direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces and in a direction opposite to the direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces.

[0157] In state (891), the first opening (801) may be formed to face a direction corresponding to the direction in which the second opening (802) faces (or the same direction as the direction in which the second opening (802) faces). In state (891), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be greater than or equal to a specified distance. State (891) may be an example of the second state described in FIG. 4.

[0158] In state (891), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (871) and the direction (873) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase corresponding to the first phase in the direction (872) through the second speaker (232).

[0159] In state (892), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be less than a specified distance. State (892) may be an example of the first state described in FIG. 4.

[0160] In state (892), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (874) and the direction (876) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase distinct from the first phase in the direction (875) through the second speaker (232). For example, the first phase can be opposite to the second phase. When the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (874) (or the first opening (801)) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (875) (or the second opening (802)) may cancel each other out. For example, since the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal are generated based on the same sound source, when the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (874) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (875) may cancel each other out.

[0161] The processor (210) can use the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (875) to cancel out (or remove, cancel out) the first acoustic signal (or at least a portion of the first acoustic signal) emitted through the direction (874). The processor (210) can maintain the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (876). The first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (876) can be better recognized by the user of the electronic device (200).

[0162] For example, the processor (210) may identify that a designated application (e.g., a phone application) is running while the electronic device (210) is in state (892). Based on identifying that the designated application is running, the processor (210) may output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. As an example, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal only when the user of the electronic device (200) is on a call. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify that another application distinct from the designated application is running while the electronic device (200) is in state (892). Based on or in response to identifying that another application distinct from (or different from) the designated application is running, the processor (210) may output a second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 8B, the electronic device (200) may include a first speaker (231), a second speaker (232), a third speaker (233), and a fourth speaker (834). The electronic device (200) may perform the operations described in FIG. 8A using the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) may perform additional operations in addition to the operations described in FIG. 8A using the first speaker (231), the second speaker (232), the third speaker (233), and the fourth speaker (234).

[0164] The first speaker (231) may be arranged within the first housing (810) to emit the first acoustic signal through the first opening (801) and the third opening (803). For example, the first speaker (231) may be arranged within the first housing (810) to emit the first acoustic signal in the direction (841) through the first opening (801) formed in the side surface (811) of the first housing (810). For example, the first side surface (811) may be substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the first display area (861) faces. The arrangement of the first speaker (231) illustrated in FIG. 8B may correspond to the arrangement of the first speaker (231) illustrated in FIG. 8A.

[0165] The second speaker (232) may be positioned within the third housing (830) to emit a second acoustic signal through the second opening (802). For example, the second speaker (232) may be positioned within the third housing (830) to emit the second acoustic signal in a direction (842) through the second opening (802) formed in a side surface (812) of the third housing (830). For example, the side surface (812) may be substantially perpendicular to a direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces. The second acoustic signal may not be emitted in a direction opposite to the direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces. For example, the third housing (830) may be formed so that the second acoustic signal is not emitted in the direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces and in the opposite direction to the direction (866) toward which the third display area (863) faces. The arrangement of the second speaker (232) illustrated in FIG. 8b may correspond to the arrangement of the second speaker (232) illustrated in FIG. 8a.

[0166] The third speaker (233) may be positioned within the first housing (810) to emit a third acoustic signal in a direction (844) through a fourth opening (804) formed in a side surface (813) of the first housing (810). For example, the side surface (813) may be substantially perpendicular to the first display area (861). The direction in which the side surface (813) faces may be opposite to the direction in which the side surface (811) faces. The side surface (813) may face the side surface (811). For example, the side surface (813) may be substantially parallel to the side surface (811).

[0167] The fourth speaker (234) may be positioned within the third housing (830) to emit a fourth acoustic signal in a direction (844) through a fifth opening (805) formed in a side surface (814) of the second housing (820). For example, the side surface (814) may be substantially perpendicular to the third display area (863). The direction in which the side surface (814) faces may be opposite to the direction in which the side surface (812) faces. The side surface (814) may face the side surface (812). For example, the side surface (814) may be substantially parallel to the side surface (812).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (200) can provide stereophonic sound using a first speaker (231), a second speaker (232), a third speaker (233), and a fourth speaker (234).

[0169] For example, in state (893), the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal using the first speaker (231) and the third speaker (233). The processor (210) can output a second acoustic signal using the second speaker (232) and the fourth speaker (234). As an example, the frequency band of the first acoustic signal and the frequency band of the second acoustic signal can be set to be different from each other. As an example, the phase of the second acoustic signal can be set to correspond to the phase of the first acoustic signal. As an example, the phase of the second acoustic signal can be set to correspond to the phase of the first acoustic signal at least within some bands.

[0170] For example, in state (894), the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal using the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232). The processor (210) can output a second acoustic signal using the third speaker (233) and the fourth speaker (234). As an example, in state (894), the processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal in directions (846) and (840) using the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal in direction (847) using the second speaker (232). The processor (210) can emit the third acoustic signal in direction (848) using the third speaker (233). The processor (210) can emit the fourth acoustic signal in direction (849) using the fourth speaker (234).

[0171] For example, the frequency bands of the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal may be set to be different from each other. The phase of the second acoustic signal may be set to correspond to the phase of the first acoustic signal. For example, at least within some bands, the phase of the second acoustic signal may be set to correspond to the phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0172] For example, the processor (210) may perform mono mixing based on an audio signal output through the first speaker (231) and an audio signal output through the second speaker (232). The processor (210) may perform mono mixing based on an audio signal output through the third speaker (233) and an audio signal output through the fourth speaker (234). The processor (210) may output a first audio signal using the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) based on mono mixing, and may output a second audio signal using the third speaker (233) and the fourth speaker (234) based on mono mixing, thereby increasing the volume. The above-described mono mixing may be a technique (or hardware system) that increases the volume (e.g., low-frequency components) based on constructive interference that occurs when monophonic signals meet. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may output a signal in which left and right stereo sound sources are combined into one through the speaker (230) based on mono mixing. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may selectively convert only the low-frequency component of the sound source into a monophonic signal based on mono mixing and output the converted monophonic signal through two speakers (e.g., a first speaker (231) and a second speaker (232)).

[0173] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 9, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (910), a second housing (920), a third housing (930), a first hinge structure (951), and a second hinge structure (952). The electronic device (200) may have a foldable shape based on two axes based on the first hinge structure (951) and the second hinge structure (952). For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a multi-foldable device that provides an infolded state and an unfolded state. The electronic device (200) illustrated in FIG. 9 may correspond to the electronic device (200) illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B.

[0175] The electronic device (200) may be a foldable device that folds along a first folding axis (981) and a second folding axis (982). The first hinge structure (951) may rotatably couple the first housing (910) and the second housing (920) with respect to the first folding axis (981). The second hinge structure (952) may rotatably couple the second housing (920) and the third housing (930) with respect to the second folding axis (982).

[0176] The display (220) (e.g., a flexible display) may be divided into a first display area (961), a second display area (962), and a third display area (963) based on a first folding axis (981) and a second folding axis (982). The first display area (961) may correspond to one side of the first housing (910). The second display area (962) may correspond to one side of the second housing (920). The third display area (963) may correspond to one side of the third housing (930).

[0177] For example, in an unfolded state (e.g., state (991) of FIG. 9), the direction (964) toward which the first display area (961) faces, the direction (965) toward which the second display area (962) faces, and the direction (966) toward which the third display area (963) faces may be set to be the same. The first display area (961), the second display area (962), and the third display area (963) may form one plane.

[0178] For example, in the infolding state (e.g., state (992) of FIG. 9), the direction (964) toward which the first display area (961) faces and the direction (965) toward which the second display area (962) faces may be set to be opposite to each other. In the infolding state, the direction (965) toward which the second display area (962) faces and the direction (966) toward which the third display area (963) faces may be set to be opposite to each other. When the state of the electronic device (200) changes from the unfolding state to the infolding state, the third housing (930) may be rotated with respect to the second housing (920). As the third housing (930) is rotated with respect to the second housing (920), the third display area (963) may come into contact with the second display area (962). After the third housing (930) is rotated relative to the second housing (920), the first housing (910) can be rotated relative to the second housing (920). As the first housing (910) is rotated relative to the second housing (920), the first display area (961) can contact a surface opposite to a surface of the third housing (930) corresponding to the third display area (963). As the first housing (910) is rotated relative to the second housing (920), the direction (964) in which the first display area (961) faces can be set to face the second display area (962) and the third display area (963).

[0179] The opening (901-1), the opening (901-2), the opening (902-1), and the opening (902-2) may be formed to face substantially the same direction. The opening (901-1) and the opening (901-2) may be positioned on the side surface (911) of the electronic device (200). The opening (902-1) and the opening (902-2) may be positioned on the side surface (912) of the electronic device (200). The side surface (911) and the side surface (912) may be positioned on substantially the same plane.

[0180] The opening (903-1), the opening (903-2), the opening (904-1), and the opening (904-2) may be formed to face substantially the same direction. The opening (903-1) and the opening (903-2) may be positioned on the side surface (913) of the electronic device (200). The opening (904-1) and the opening (904-2) may be positioned on the side surface (914) of the electronic device (200). The side surface (913) and the side surface (914) may be positioned on substantially the same plane.

[0181] The first speaker (231) may be positioned within the first housing (910) to emit an acoustic signal through the opening (901-1) and the opening (901-2). For example, the first speaker (231) may include a sub-speaker (231-1) and a sub-speaker (231-2). The sub-speaker (231-1) may be positioned within the first housing (910) to emit a first acoustic signal through the opening (901-1) formed in the side surface (911) of the first housing (910). The sub-speaker (231-2) may be positioned within the first housing (910) to emit a second acoustic signal through the opening (901-2) formed in the side surface (911) of the first housing (910). For example, the side surface (911) may be substantially perpendicular to the first display area (961).

[0182] For example, the electronic device (200) may further include an opening (905). The opening (905) may be positioned within the first housing (910). The opening (905) may be configured to emit an acoustic signal output through the first speaker (231) in a direction (906) opposite to the direction (964) in which the first display area (961) faces.

[0183] For example, the sub speaker (231-1) may be configured to output a first acoustic signal, which is a signal in a high frequency band among the acoustic signals output from the first speaker (231). For example, the sub speaker (231-1) may be referred to as a tweeter. The sub speaker (231-2) may be configured to output a second acoustic signal, which is a signal in a low frequency band among the acoustic signals output from the first speaker (231). For example, the sub speaker (231-2) may be referred to as a woofer or a bass speaker. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the sub speaker (231-1) may be configured to output a second acoustic signal, which is a signal in a low frequency band. The sub speaker (231-1) may be referred to as a woofer. The sub speaker (231-2) may be configured to output a first audio signal, which is a signal in a high frequency band. The sub speaker (231-1) may be referred to as a tweeter.

[0184] The second speaker (232) may be positioned within the third housing (930) to emit an acoustic signal through the opening (902-1) and the opening (902-2). For example, the second speaker (232) may include a sub-speaker (232-1) and a sub-speaker (232-2). The sub-speaker (232-1) may be positioned within the third housing (930) to emit a third acoustic signal through the opening (902-1) formed in the side surface (912) of the third housing (930). The sub-speaker (232-2) may be positioned within the third housing (930) to emit a fourth acoustic signal through the opening (902-2) formed in the side surface (912) of the third housing (930). For example, the side surface (912) may be substantially perpendicular to the third display area (963). For example, the side (912) may be positioned substantially on the same plane as the side (911).

[0185] For example, the sub speaker (232-1) may be configured to output a third acoustic signal, which is a signal in a high frequency band among the acoustic signals output from the second speaker (232). For example, the sub speaker (232-1) may be referred to as a tweeter. The sub speaker (232-2) may be configured to output a fourth acoustic signal, which is a signal in a low frequency band among the acoustic signals output from the second speaker (232). For example, the sub speaker (232-2) may be referred to as a woofer or a bass speaker. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the sub speaker (232-1) may be configured to output a fourth acoustic signal, which is a signal in a low frequency band. The sub speaker (232-1) may be referred to as a woofer. The sub speaker (232-2) may be configured to output a third audio signal, which is a signal in a high frequency band. The sub speaker (232-1) may be referred to as a tweeter.

[0186] The third speaker (233) may be positioned within the first housing (910) to emit an acoustic signal through the opening (903-1) and the opening (903-2). For example, the third speaker (233) may include a sub-speaker (233-1) and a sub-speaker (233-2). The sub-speaker (233-1) may be positioned within the first housing (910) to emit a fifth acoustic signal through the opening (903-1) formed in the side surface (913) of the first housing (910). The sub-speaker (233-2) may be positioned within the first housing (910) to emit a sixth acoustic signal through the opening (903-2) formed in the side surface (913) of the first housing (910). For example, the side surface (913) may be substantially perpendicular to the first display area (961).

[0187] For example, the sub speaker (233-1) may be configured to output a fifth acoustic signal, which is a signal in a high frequency band among the acoustic signals output from the third speaker (233). For example, the sub speaker (233-1) may be referred to as a tweeter. The sub speaker (233-2) may be configured to output a sixth acoustic signal, which is a signal in a low frequency band among the acoustic signals output from the third speaker (233). For example, the sub speaker (233-2) may be referred to as a woofer or a bass speaker. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the sub speaker (233-1) may be configured to output a sixth acoustic signal, which is a signal in a low frequency band. The sub speaker (233-1) may be referred to as a woofer. The sub speaker (233-2) may be configured to output a fifth audio signal, which is a signal in a high frequency band. The sub speaker (233-1) may be referred to as a tweeter.

[0188] The fourth speaker (234) may be positioned within the third housing (930) to emit an acoustic signal through the opening (904-1) and the opening (904-2). For example, the fourth speaker (234) may include a sub-speaker (234-1) and a sub-speaker (234-2). The sub-speaker (234-1) may be positioned within the third housing (930) to emit a seventh acoustic signal through the opening (904-1) formed in the side surface (914) of the third housing (930). The sub-speaker (234-2) may be positioned within the third housing (930) to emit an eighth acoustic signal through the opening (904-2) formed in the side surface (914) of the third housing (930). For example, the side surface (914) may be substantially perpendicular to the third display area (963). For example, the side (914) may be positioned substantially on the same plane as the side (913).

[0189] For example, the sub speaker (234-1) may be configured to output a seventh acoustic signal, which is a signal in a high frequency band among the acoustic signals output from the fourth speaker (234). For example, the sub speaker (234-1) may be referred to as a tweeter. The sub speaker (234-2) may be configured to output an eighth acoustic signal, which is a signal in a low frequency band among the acoustic signals output from the third speaker (234). For example, the sub speaker (234-2) may be referred to as a woofer or a bass speaker. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the sub speaker (234-1) may be configured to output the eighth acoustic signal, which is a signal in a low frequency band. The sub speaker (234-1) may be referred to as a woofer. The sub speaker (234-2) may be configured to output a seventh acoustic signal, which is a signal in a high frequency band. The sub speaker (234-1) may be referred to as a tweeter.

[0190] State (991) may be such that the distance between the first speaker (231) (e.g., sub speaker (231-1) or sub speaker (231-2)) and the second speaker (232) (e.g., sub speaker (232-1) or sub speaker (232-2)) is greater than or equal to a specified distance. State (991) may be an example of the second state described in FIG. 4.

[0191] In state (991), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the second state, the processor (210) can set the phases of each of the first to eighth acoustic signals to be the same. The processor (210) can output the first to eighth acoustic signals having the same phase. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal in the direction (941) using the sub-speaker (231-1) and the sub-speaker (231-2). The processor (210) can emit the third acoustic signal and the fourth acoustic signal in the direction (942) using the sub-speaker (232-1) and the sub-speaker (232-2). The processor (210) can emit a fifth acoustic signal and a sixth acoustic signal in the direction (943) using the sub-speaker (233-1) and the sub-speaker (233-2). The processor (210) can emit a seventh acoustic signal and an eighth acoustic signal in the direction (944) using the sub-speaker (234-1) and the sub-speaker (234-2).

[0192] In state (992), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be less than a specified distance. State (992) may be an example of the first state described in FIG. 4.

[0193] In state (992), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a third acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. For example, the processor (210) can output a second acoustic signal in the direction (946) using the sub speaker (231-2). The processor (210) can output the first acoustic signal in the direction (948) using the sub speaker (231-1). The processor (210) can output a third acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the second acoustic signal in the direction (947) using the sub speaker (232-2). According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may further output a fourth acoustic signal having a phase distinct from that of the first acoustic signal in the direction (949) using the sub speaker (232-1). Accordingly, the second acoustic signal emitted in the direction (950) may be more recognizable to the user of the electronic device (200).

[0194] According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may perform mono mixing based on (or using, or having) the first audio signal and the third audio signal in the state (992). The processor (210) may output a monophonic signal based on the first audio signal and the third audio signal in the state (992). The processor (210) may output the second audio signal and the fourth audio signal as stereophonic sound in the state (992).

[0195] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate examples of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0196] Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B , the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (1010), a second housing (1020), a third housing (1030), a first hinge structure (1051), and a second hinge structure (1052). The electronic device (200) may have a foldable shape based on two axes based on the first hinge structure (1051) and the second hinge structure (1052). For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a multi-foldable device that provides an outfolded state and an unfolded state.

[0197] The electronic device (200) may be a foldable device that folds along a first folding axis (1081) and a second folding axis (1082). The first hinge structure (1051) may rotatably couple the first housing (1010) and the second housing (1020) with respect to the first folding axis (1081). The second hinge structure (1052) may rotatably couple the second housing (1020) and the third housing (1030) with respect to the second folding axis (1082).

[0198] The display (220) (e.g., flexible display) may be divided into a first display area (1061), a second display area (1062), and a third display area (1063) based on a first folding axis (1081) and a second folding axis (1082). The first display area (1061) may correspond to one side of the first housing (1010). The second display area (1062) may correspond to one side of the second housing (1020). The third display area (1063) may correspond to one side of the third housing (1030).

[0199] For example, in an unfolded state (e.g., state (1091) of FIG. 10A), the direction (1064) toward which the first display area (1061) faces, the direction (1065) toward which the second display area (1062) faces, and the direction (1066) toward which the third display area (1063) faces may be set to be the same. The first display area (1061), the second display area (1062), and the third display area (1063) may form one plane.

[0200] For example, in an outfolding state (e.g., state (1092) of FIG. 10A), the direction (1064) toward which the first display area (1061) faces and the direction (1065) toward which the second display area (1062) faces may be set to be opposite to each other. In the outfolding state, the direction (1065) toward which the second display area (1062) faces and the direction (1066) toward which the third display area (1063) faces may be set to be opposite to each other. When the state of the electronic device (200) changes from the unfolding state to the outfolding state, the first housing (1010) may be rotated with respect to the second housing (1020), and the third housing (1030) may be rotated with respect to the second housing (1020). As the first housing (1010) is rotated with respect to the second housing (1020), the first display area (1061) may be folded to face outward. As the third housing (1030) rotates relative to the second housing (1020), the third display area (1030) may come into contact with the second display area (1062). For example, in the electronic device (200) in an outfolded state (e.g., state (1092) of FIG. 10A or state (1094) of FIG. 10B), the first display area (1061) and the second display area (1062) may be spaced apart from each other. The first display area (1061) may function as a part of the exterior of the electronic device (200) in the outfolded state.

[0201] Referring to FIG. 10A, a first speaker (231) may be placed within a first housing (1010) to emit a first acoustic signal through openings (1001) and (1003). A second speaker (232) may be placed within a third housing (1030) to emit a second acoustic signal through openings (1002).

[0202] State (1091) may be referred to as an unfolding state. In state (1091), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be greater than or equal to a specified distance. State (1091) may be an example of the second state described in FIG. 4.

[0203] In state (1091), the first speaker (231) can emit a first acoustic signal in a direction (1071) through the opening (1001). The first speaker (231) can emit a first acoustic signal in a direction (1073) through the opening (1003). The second speaker (232) can emit a second acoustic signal in a direction (1072) through the opening (1002).

[0204] State (1092) may be referred to as an outfolded state. In state (1092), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be less than a specified distance. State (1092) may be an example of the first state described in FIG. 4.

[0205] In state (1092), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (1074) and the direction (1076) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase distinct from the first phase in the direction (1075) through the second speaker (232). For example, the first phase can be opposite to the second phase. When the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted in direction (1074) and the second acoustic signal emitted in direction (1075) may cancel each other out. The first acoustic signal emitted in direction (1076) may be more recognizable to the user of the electronic device (200).

[0206] For example, the processor (210) may identify that a specified application (e.g., a phone application) is running in state (1092). Based on identifying that the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. As an example, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal only when the user of the electronic device (200) is on a call. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify that another application distinct from the specified application is running in state (1092). Based on identifying that another application distinct from the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 10b, the first speaker (231) can perform both the functions of a speaker and a receiver. The second speaker (232) can perform both the functions of a speaker and a receiver. The first speaker (231) can be placed within the first housing (1010) to emit a first acoustic signal through the opening (1001) and the opening (1003). The second speaker (232) can be placed within the third housing (1030) to emit a second acoustic signal through the opening (1002) and the opening (1004).

[0208] State (1093) may be referred to as an unfolding state. In state (1093), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be greater than or equal to a specified distance. State (1093) may be an example of the second state described in FIG. 4.

[0209] In state (1093), the first speaker (231) can emit a first acoustic signal in a direction (1041) through the opening (1001). The first speaker (231) can emit a first acoustic signal in a direction (1043) through the opening (1003). The second speaker (232) can emit a second acoustic signal in a direction (1042) through the opening (1002). The second speaker (232) can emit a second acoustic signal in a direction (1044) through the opening (1004).

[0210] State (1094) may be referred to as an outfolded state. In state (1094), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be less than a specified distance. State (1094) may be an example of the first state described in FIG. 4.

[0211] In state (1094), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) can determine a speaker to perform the function of the main speaker. Based on the state in which the electronic device (200) is held, the processor (210) can determine a speaker to perform the function of the main speaker. For example, the processor (210) can determine a speaker to perform the function of the main speaker based on identifying a housing of the electronic device (200) that a part of the user's body is in contact with using a proximity sensor.

[0212] For example, based on the processor (210) determining that the speaker to perform the function of the main speaker is the first speaker (231), the processor (210) can emit a first sound signal having a normal phase in the direction (1045) and the direction (1047) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit a second sound signal having a phase opposite to the normal phase in the direction (1046) and the direction (1048) through the second speaker (232). The processor (210) can emit a second sound signal having a phase substantially opposite to the normal phase in the direction (1046) and the direction (1048) through the second speaker (232).

[0213] For example, based on the processor (210) determining that the speaker to perform the function of the main speaker is the second speaker (232), the processor (210) can emit a second acoustic signal having a normal phase in the direction (1046) and the direction (1048) through the second speaker (232). The processor (210) can emit a first acoustic signal having a phase opposite to the normal phase in the direction (1045) and the direction (1047) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit a first acoustic signal having a phase substantially opposite to the normal phase in the direction (1045) and the direction (1047) through the first speaker (231).

[0214] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of an electronic device including one or more speakers, according to one embodiment.

[0215] Referring to FIG. 11, the electronic device (200) may include a first housing (1110), a second housing (1120), a third housing (1130), a first hinge structure (1151), and a second hinge structure (1152). The electronic device (200) may have a foldable shape based on two axes based on the first hinge structure (1151) and the second hinge structure (1152). For example, the electronic device (200) may be referred to as a multi-foldable device that provides an outfolded state and an unfolded state.

[0216] The electronic device (200) may be a foldable device that folds along a first folding axis (1181) and a second folding axis (1182). The first hinge structure (1151) may rotatably couple the first housing (1110) and the second housing (1120) with respect to the first folding axis (1181). The second hinge structure (1152) may rotatably couple the second housing (1120) and the third housing (1130) with respect to the second folding axis (1182).

[0217] The display (220) (e.g., flexible display) may be divided into a first display area (1161), a second display area (1162), and a third display area (1163) based on a first folding axis (1181) and a second folding axis (1182). The first display area (1161) may correspond to one side of the first housing (1110). The second display area (1162) may correspond to one side of the second housing (1120). The third display area (1163) may correspond to one side of the third housing (1130).

[0218] For example, in an unfolded state (e.g., state (1191) of FIG. 11), the direction (1164) toward which the first display area (1161) faces, the direction (1165) toward which the second display area (1162) faces, and the direction (1166) toward which the third display area (1163) faces may be the same. The first display area (1161), the second display area (1162), and the third display area (1163) may form one plane.

[0219] For example, in an outfolding state (e.g., state (1192) of FIG. 11), the direction (1164) toward which the first display area (1161) faces and the direction (1165) toward which the second display area (1162) faces may be opposite to each other. In the outfolding state, the direction (1165) toward which the second display area (1162) faces and the direction (1166) toward which the third display area (1163) faces may be set to be opposite to each other. When the state of the electronic device (200) changes from the unfolding state to the outfolding state, the first housing (1110) may be rotated with respect to the second housing (1120), and the third housing (1130) may be rotated with respect to the second housing (1120). As the first housing (1110) rotates relative to the second housing (1120), the first display area (1161) and the second display area (1162) can be folded to face outward.

[0220] As the first housing (1110) is rotated relative to the second housing (1120), and then the third housing (1130) is rotated relative to the second housing (1120), the first display area (1161) can be covered by the third housing (1130). As the first housing (1110) is rotated relative to the second housing (1120), and then the third housing (1130) is rotated relative to the second housing (1120), the third display area (1163) can be folded to face outward. The first display area (1161) can be in contact with the opposite side of the third display area (1163).

[0221] For example, in an outfolded state (e.g., state (1192) of FIG. 11), the electronic device (200) may have a second display area (1162) and a third display area (1163) exposed to the outside. The second display area (1162) and the third display area (1163) may function as part of the exterior of the electronic device (200).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the first speaker (231) may be positioned within the second housing (1120) to emit a first acoustic signal through the opening (1101) and the opening (1103). The second speaker (232) may be positioned within the third housing (1130) to emit a second acoustic signal through the opening (1102).

[0223] State (1191) may be referred to as an unfolding state. In state (1191), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be greater than or equal to a specified distance. State (1191) may be an example of the second state described in FIG. 4.

[0224] In state (1191), the first speaker (231) can emit a first acoustic signal in a direction (1171) through the opening (1101). The first speaker (231) can emit a first acoustic signal in a direction (1173) through the opening (1103). The second speaker (232) can emit a second acoustic signal in a direction (1172) through the opening (1102).

[0225] State (1192) may be referred to as an outfolded state. In state (1192), the distance between the first speaker (231) and the second speaker (232) may be less than a specified distance. State (1192) may be an example of the first state described in FIG. 4.

[0226] In state (1192), the processor (210) can identify the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state. Based on identifying the state of the electronic device (200) as the first state, the processor (210) can output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. The processor (210) can emit the first acoustic signal having the first phase in the direction (1174) and the direction (1176) through the first speaker (231). The processor (210) can emit the second acoustic signal having the second phase distinct from the first phase in the direction (1175) through the second speaker (232). For example, the first phase can be opposite to the second phase. When the first phase is opposite to the second phase, the first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (1174) and the second acoustic signal emitted through the direction (1175) may cancel each other out. The first acoustic signal emitted through the direction (1176) may be better recognized by the user of the electronic device (200).

[0227] For example, the processor (210) may identify that a specified application (e.g., a phone application) is running in state (1192). Based on identifying that the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output a first acoustic signal and a second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. As an example, the processor (210) may output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal only when the user of the electronic device (200) is on a call. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify that another application distinct from the specified application is running in state (1192). Based on identifying that another application distinct from the specified application is running, the processor (210) may output a second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal.

[0228] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (200)) may include a first speaker (e.g., first speaker (231)) for outputting a first acoustic signal, a second speaker (e.g., second speaker (232)) for outputting a second acoustic signal, and a processor (e.g., processor (210)) operably coupled to the first speaker and the second speaker. The processor may be configured to output the first acoustic signal through the first speaker and output the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase that is distinct from a phase of the first acoustic signal when the electronic device is in a first state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a specified distance. The processor may be configured to output the first audio signal through the first speaker and output the second audio signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase corresponding to a phase of the first audio signal when the electronic device is in a second state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the specified distance.

[0229] According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to identify execution of a designated application while the state of the electronic device is the first state. The processor may be configured to output, based on the execution of the designated application, the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0230] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a flexible display (e.g., display (220)) including a first housing (e.g., first housing (510), first housing (610)), a second housing (e.g., second housing (520), second housing (620)), a hinge structure that rotatably connects the first housing to the second housing about a folding axis, and a first display area (e.g., first display area (551), first display area (651)) corresponding to one side of the first housing divided about the folding axis and a second display area (e.g., second display area (552), second display area (652)) corresponding to one side of the second housing. The first speaker may be disposed within the first housing so as to emit the first acoustic signal through a first opening (e.g., first opening (501), first opening (601)) formed on a first side of the first housing. The second speaker may be positioned within the second housing to emit the second acoustic signal through a second opening formed on a second side of the second housing (e.g., second opening (502), second opening (602)).

[0231] According to one embodiment, the first state (e.g., state (591), state (691)) may include a state in which a first direction toward which the first display area faces is opposite to a second direction toward which the second display area faces. The second state (e.g., state (592), state (691)) may include a state in which the first direction toward which the first display area faces corresponds to the second direction toward which the second display area faces.

[0232] In one embodiment, the first opening may be formed to face the same direction as the second opening in the second state.

[0233] According to one embodiment, the first opening may be formed to face in a direction opposite to the direction in which the second opening faces in the second state.

[0234] In one embodiment, the direction in which the first side faces may be perpendicular to the direction in which the first display area faces. The first housing may include a third opening through which the first acoustic signal is emitted in a direction opposite to the direction in which the first display area faces.

[0235] According to one embodiment, the direction in which the second side faces may be perpendicular to the direction in which the second display area faces. The second housing may be formed so that the second acoustic signal is not emitted in a direction opposite to the direction in which the second display area faces.

[0236] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a flexible display including a first housing (e.g., first housing (710)), a second housing (e.g., second housing (720)), a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing and the second housing about a first folding axis, a third housing, a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing and the third housing about a second folding axis, and a first display area corresponding to one side of the first housing, the first display area corresponding to one side of the second housing, and the third display area corresponding to one side of the third housing, the first display area being defined by the first folding axis and the second folding axis. The first speaker may be disposed within the first housing so as to emit the first acoustic signal through a first opening (e.g., first opening (701)) formed on a first side of the first housing. The second speaker may be positioned within the third housing so as to emit the second acoustic signal through a second opening (e.g., second opening (702)) formed on a second side of the third housing.

[0237] According to one embodiment, the first state may include an infolded state in which the second display area and the third display area face each other, and the first display area faces a side of the third housing opposite to the third display area. The second state may include an unfolded state in which a direction toward which the first display area faces, a direction toward which the second display area faces, and a direction toward which the third display area faces are set to be the same.

[0238] According to one embodiment, the first speaker may include a first sub-speaker configured to output the third acoustic signal of a first frequency band, and a second sub-speaker configured to output the fourth acoustic signal of a second frequency band different from the first frequency band. The second speaker may include a third sub-speaker configured to output a fifth acoustic signal of the third frequency band, and a fourth sub-speaker configured to output a sixth acoustic signal of the fourth frequency band. The first speaker and the third speaker may be substantially aligned along a direction perpendicular to the flexible display in the infolded state.

[0239] In one embodiment, the first frequency band may be lower than the second frequency band. The third frequency band may be lower than the fourth frequency band.

[0240] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a third speaker configured to output a third acoustic signal through a third opening formed on a third side of the first housing opposite the first side, and a fourth speaker configured to output a fourth acoustic signal through a fourth opening formed on a fourth side of the third housing opposite the second side.

[0241] According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to output the third acoustic signal corresponding to the first acoustic signal and to output the fourth acoustic signal corresponding to the second acoustic signal based on identifying the state of the electronic device as the unfolded state.

[0242] In one embodiment, the third acoustic signal may correspond to the first acoustic signal when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. The fourth acoustic signal may correspond to the second acoustic signal when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0243] According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to output the second acoustic signal corresponding to the first acoustic signal and to output the fourth acoustic signal corresponding to the third acoustic signal based on identifying the state of the electronic device as the unfolded state.

[0244] In one embodiment, the second acoustic signal may correspond to the first acoustic signal when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. The fourth acoustic signal may correspond to the third acoustic signal when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0245] According to one embodiment, the first acoustic signal and the third acoustic signal may be set to have the same phase within at least some frequency bands relative to the second acoustic signal and the fourth acoustic signal when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0246] According to one embodiment, the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal may be set such that the electronic device, in the infolded state, has the same phase with respect to the third acoustic signal and the fourth acoustic signal within at least some frequency band.

[0247] According to one embodiment, the first state may include an outfolded state in which the first display area and the second display area face each other, and a side of the second housing opposite the second display area and a side of the third housing opposite the third display area face each other. The second state may include an unfolded state in which a direction in which the first display area faces, a direction in which the second display area faces, and a direction in which the third display area faces are set to be the same.

[0248] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing configured to movably engage the first housing between a retracted position and an extended position, a flexible display coupled to the first housing and the second housing such that a size of a display area changes as the second housing is moved between the retracted position and the extended position, and an actuator configured to move the second housing relative to the first housing. The first speaker may be disposed within the first housing so as to emit the first acoustic signal through a first opening formed in a first side of the first housing. The second speaker may be disposed within the second housing so as to emit the second acoustic signal through a second opening formed in a second side of the second housing.

[0249] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (200)) may include a first speaker (e.g., first speaker (231)) for outputting a first acoustic signal, a second speaker (e.g., second speaker (232)) for outputting a second acoustic signal, and a processor (e.g., processor (210)) operably coupled to the first speaker and the second speaker. The processor may be configured to identify a state of the electronic device as one of a first state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a specified distance and a second state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the specified distance. The processor may be configured to output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from a phase of the first acoustic signal based on identifying the state of the electronic device as the first state. The processor may be configured to output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal based on identifying the state of the electronic device as the second state.

[0250] According to one embodiment, a method performed in an electronic device may include, when the electronic device is in a first state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a specified distance, outputting the first acoustic signal through the first speaker, and outputting the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase distinct from a phase of the first acoustic signal. The method may include, when the electronic device is in a second state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the specified distance, outputting the first acoustic signal through the first speaker, and outputting the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase corresponding to a phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0251] According to one embodiment, a method performed in an electronic device may include an operation of identifying a state of the electronic device as one of a first state in which a distance between a first speaker of the electronic device and a second speaker of the electronic device is less than a specified distance and a second state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the specified distance. The method may include an operation of outputting, based on identifying the state of the electronic device as the first state, the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from a phase of the first acoustic signal. The method may include an operation of outputting, based on identifying the state of the electronic device as the second state, the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0252] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first speaker for outputting a first acoustic signal, a second speaker for outputting a second acoustic signal, a memory storing instructions and including one or more storage media, and at least one processor including a processing circuit. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to output the first acoustic signal through the first speaker and output the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase distinct from a phase of the first acoustic signal, when the electronic device is in a first state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a specified distance, and to output the first acoustic signal through the first speaker and output the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase corresponding to a phase of the first acoustic signal, when the electronic device is in a second state in which a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the specified distance.

[0253] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to identify execution of a designated application while the state of the electronic device is the first state, and in response to identifying execution of the designated application, output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal.

[0254] In one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to output the seventh acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the first acoustic signal and to output the eighth acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the second acoustic signal, based on identifying the state of the electronic device as the unfolded state.

[0255] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to output the second acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the first acoustic signal and to output the eighth acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the seventh acoustic signal, based on identifying the state of the electronic device as the unfolded state.

[0256] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a first speaker outputting a first audio signal, a second speaker outputting a second audio signal, and a processor operably connected to the first speaker and the second speaker. The processor may control the first speaker to output the first audio signal and control the second speaker to output the second audio signal. A phase of the second audio signal relative to a phase of the first audio signal may be dependent on a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker.

[0257] According to one embodiment, when the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a predetermined distance, the phase of the second audio signal can be distinguished from the phase of the first audio signal. When the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the predetermined distance, the phase of the second audio signal can correspond to the phase of the first audio signal.

[0258] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a flexible display including a first housing, a second housing, a hinge structure that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing about a folding axis, and a first display area corresponding to one side of the first housing and a second display area corresponding to one side of the second housing divided about the folding axis. The first speaker may be disposed in the first housing and may emit the first audio signal through a first opening formed in a first side of the first housing. The second speaker may be disposed in the second housing and may emit the second audio signal through a second opening formed in a second side of the second housing.

[0259] According to one embodiment, in the first state, the first direction in which the first display area faces may be opposite to the second direction in which the second display area faces. In the second state, the first direction in which the first display area faces may correspond to the second direction in which the second display area faces.

[0260] In one embodiment, when the electronic device is in the second state, the first opening may face the same direction as the second opening.

[0261] In one embodiment, when the electronic device is in the second state, the first opening may face in a direction opposite to the direction in which the second opening faces.

[0262] According to one embodiment, the direction in which the first side faces may be perpendicular to the first direction in which the first display area faces. The first housing may include a third opening through which the first audio signal is emitted in a direction opposite to the first direction in which the first display area faces.

[0263] According to one embodiment, the direction in which the second side faces may be perpendicular to the second direction in which the second display area faces. The second housing may be formed so that the second audio signal is not radiated in a direction opposite to the second direction in which the second display area faces.

[0264] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a flexible display including a first housing, a second housing, a first hinge structure rotatably connecting the first housing about a first folding axis, a third housing, a second hinge structure rotatably connecting the second housing to the third housing about a second folding axis, and a first display area corresponding to a first surface of the first housing, a second display area corresponding to a first surface of the second housing, and a third display area corresponding to a first surface of the third housing, the first display area being distinguished based on the first folding axis and the second folding axis. The first speaker may be disposed in the first housing and may emit the first audio signal through a first opening formed in a first side of the first housing. The second speaker may be disposed in the third housing and may emit the second audio signal through a second opening formed in a second side of the third housing.

[0265] According to one embodiment, the first state may include a folded state in which the second display area and the third display area face each other and the first display area faces a side of the third housing opposite the third display area. The second state may include an unfolded state in which the direction in which the first display area faces, the direction in which the second display area faces, and the direction in which the third display area faces are the same.

[0266] According to one embodiment, the first speaker may include a first sub-speaker that outputs a third audio signal in a first frequency band, and a second sub-speaker that outputs a fourth audio signal in a second frequency band different from the first frequency band. The second speaker may include a third sub-speaker that outputs a fifth audio signal in a third frequency band, and a fourth sub-speaker that outputs a sixth audio signal in a fourth frequency band. The first sub-speaker and the third sub-speaker may be substantially aligned along a direction perpendicular to the flexible display in the folded state.

[0267] In one embodiment, the first frequency band may be lower than the second frequency band. The third frequency band may be lower than the fourth frequency band.

[0268] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a third speaker that outputs a seventh audio signal through a third opening formed on a third side opposite the first side of the first housing, and a fourth speaker that outputs an eighth audio signal through a fourth opening formed on a fourth side facing the second side of the third housing.

[0269] According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to output the seventh audio signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the first audio signal and to output the eighth audio signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the second audio signal, based on identifying that the state of the electronic device is the unfolded state.

[0270] According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to output the second audio signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the first audio signal and to output the eighth audio signal having a phase corresponding to a phase of the seventh audio signal, based on identifying that the state of the electronic device is the folding state.

[0271] In one embodiment, while the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the first audio signal and the seventh audio signal may be set to have the same phase with respect to the second audio signal and the eighth audio signal within at least some frequency band.

[0272] According to one embodiment, while the electronic device is in the folded state, the first audio signal and the second audio signal may be set to have the same phase with respect to the seventh audio signal and the eighth audio signal within at least some frequency bands.

[0273] According to one embodiment, the first state may include a folded-out state in which the first display area and the second display area face each other, and one side of the second housing opposite the second display area and one side of the third housing opposite the third display area face each other. The second state may include an unfolded state in which the direction in which the first display area faces, the direction in which the second display area faces, and the direction in which the third display area faces are the same.

[0274] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a first housing, a second housing configured to be movably coupled with the first housing between a retracted position and an extended position, a flexible display coupled to the first housing and the second housing such that a size of a display area changes as the second housing moves between the retracted position and the extended position, and an actuator that moves the second housing relative to the first housing. The first speaker may be disposed in the first housing and may emit the first audio signal through a first opening formed in a first side of the first housing. The second speaker may be disposed in the second housing and may emit the second audio signal through a second opening formed in a second side of the second housing.

[0275] According to one embodiment, a method performed by an electronic device may include controlling a first speaker of the electronic device to output a first audio signal, and controlling a second speaker of the electronic device to output a second audio signal. A phase of the second audio signal relative to a phase of the first audio signal may be dependent on a distance between the first speaker and the second speaker.

[0276] According to one embodiment, when the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a predetermined distance, the phase of the second audio signal can be distinguished from the phase of the first audio signal. When the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than or equal to the predetermined distance, the phase of the second audio signal can correspond to the phase of the first audio signal.

[0277] According to the embodiments described above, one or more speakers of a foldable device and / or a rollable device can be controlled. When the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is minimized, phone performance and multimedia performance can be maximized. The first speaker can be configured to perform both speaker and receiver functions, and the second speaker can be configured to perform only speaker functions.

[0278] Electronic devices according to embodiments disclosed herein 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 embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0279] The embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein 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 the 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.

[0280] In one embodiment of this document, the term "module" used 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).

[0281] One embodiment of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) 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.

[0282] According to one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or 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.

[0283] According to one embodiment, 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 arranged in other components. According to one embodiment, 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 one embodiment, 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.

[0284] It will be understood that all of the embodiments and their technical features described above can be combined with each other in any and all combinations, as long as there is no potential conflict between the two embodiments or features. That is, any and all combinations of two or more of the above-described embodiments are contemplated and encompassed within the present disclosure. One or more features from any embodiment can be incorporated into any other embodiment, providing a corresponding advantage or advantages.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A first speaker for outputting a first audio signal; A second speaker for outputting a second audio signal; A memory storing instructions and including one or more storage media; and comprising at least one processor including a processing circuit; The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, When the electronic device is in a first state in which the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a specified distance, the electronic device outputs the first acoustic signal through the first speaker, and outputs the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase that is distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal, and When the electronic device is in a second state in which the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than the specified distance, the electronic device outputs the first acoustic signal through the first speaker, and causes the electronic device to output the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal. Electronic devices.

2. In the first paragraph, when the instructions are individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, While the state of the above electronic device is the first state, identifying the execution of a specified application, In response to identifying execution of the above specified application, causing the electronic device to output the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal having a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal. Electronic devices.

3. In the first or second paragraph, the electronic device, 1st housing; Second Housing; A hinge structure that rotatably connects the first housing to the second housing based on the folding axis; and Further comprising a flexible display including a first display area corresponding to one side of the first housing and a second display area corresponding to one side of the second housing, which are distinguished based on the folding axis, The above first speaker, is positioned within the first housing so as to emit the first acoustic signal through a first opening formed on a first side of the first housing; The second speaker above, is disposed within the second housing so as to emit the second acoustic signal through a second opening formed on the second side of the second housing; Electronic devices.

4. In the third paragraph, in the first state, the first direction in which the first display area faces is, The second display area is in a state opposite to the second direction in which it is directed, In the second state, the first direction in which the first display area faces is, A state corresponding to the second direction in which the second display area is directed, Electronic devices.

5. In the third or fourth paragraph, the first opening, When the electronic device is in the second state, it faces the same direction as the second opening faces. Electronic devices.

6. In the third or fourth paragraph, the first opening, When the electronic device is in the second state, the second opening faces in a direction opposite to the direction in which it faces. Electronic devices.

7. In any one of clauses 3 to 6, the direction in which the first side faces is, is perpendicular to the first direction in which the first display area is directed, The above first housing, Further comprising a third opening through which the first acoustic signal is emitted in a direction opposite to the first direction toward which the first display area is directed. Electronic devices.

8. In any one of clauses 3 to 7, the direction in which the second side faces is, is perpendicular to the second direction in which the second display area is directed, The above second housing, formed so that the second sound signal is not emitted in the second direction toward which the second display area is directed and in the opposite direction to the second direction toward which the second display area is directed; Electronic devices.

9. In the first or second paragraph, the electronic device, 1st housing; Second Housing; A first hinge structure that rotatably connects the first housing and the second housing with respect to the first folding axis; 3rd Housing; A second hinge structure that rotatably connects the second housing and the third housing around the second folding axis; A flexible display further comprising a first display area corresponding to one side of the first housing, a second display area corresponding to one side of the second housing, and a third display area corresponding to one side of the third housing, which are separated by the first folding axis and the second folding axis, The above first speaker, is positioned within the first housing so as to emit the first acoustic signal through a first opening formed on a first side of the first housing; The second speaker above, is disposed within the third housing so as to emit the second acoustic signal through a second opening formed on the second side of the third housing; Electronic devices.

10. In the 9th paragraph, the first state is, The second display area and the third display area face each other, and the first display area includes an infolded state facing a side of the third housing opposite to the third display area, The second state above is, Including an unfolded state in which the direction in which the first display area faces, the direction in which the second display area faces, and the direction in which the third display area faces are the same. Electronic devices.

11. In the 9th or 10th clause, the first speaker, A first sub speaker set to output a third audio signal of a first frequency band; and Including a second sub-speaker set to output a fourth sound signal of a second frequency band different from the first frequency band; The second speaker above, a third sub speaker configured to output a fifth sound signal of a third frequency band; and Including a fourth sub-speaker set to output a sixth sound signal of a fourth frequency band; The above first sub-speaker and the above third sub-speaker, In the infolded state, substantially aligned along a direction perpendicular to the flexible display, Electronic devices.

12. In the 11th paragraph, the first frequency band is, lower than the above second frequency band, The third frequency band is, Lower than the above 4th frequency band, Electronic devices.

13. In any one of clauses 9 to 12, the electronic device, A third speaker configured to output a seventh acoustic signal through a third opening formed on a third side of the first housing opposite to the first side; and Further comprising a fourth speaker configured to output an eighth sound signal through a fourth opening formed on a fourth side opposite to the second side of the third housing; Electronic devices.

14. In the 13th paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Based on identifying the state of said electronic device as said unfolded state: Outputting the seventh acoustic signal so as to have a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal; causing the electronic device to output the eighth acoustic signal having a phase corresponding to the phase of the second acoustic signal; Electronic devices.

15. A method performed in an electronic device, said method comprising: When the electronic device is in a first state in which the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is less than a predetermined distance, an operation of outputting the first acoustic signal through the first speaker, and outputting the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase distinct from the phase of the first acoustic signal; and An operation including outputting the first acoustic signal through the first speaker and outputting the second acoustic signal through the second speaker so as to have a phase corresponding to the phase of the first acoustic signal, when the electronic device is in a second state in which the distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is greater than the predetermined distance. method.

Images