Electronic device for displaying plurality of execution screens respectively on portions of flexible display, and method therefor

Abstract

An electronic device according to an embodiment may display, on a flexible display, a first execution screen related to a first application. The electronic device may display at least one icon related to at least one application in one area of the flexible display. The electronic device may receive an input for moving the at least one icon to a defined area of the flexible display. The electronic device may display a second execution screen related to the at least one application in the defined area of the flexible display on the basis of receiving the input, and display the first execution screen related to the first application by moving the first execution screen to the left or right of the second execution screen.

Description

Electronic device and method for displaying multiple execution screens on each part of a flexible display

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device and method for displaying a plurality of execution screens on separate parts of a flexible display.

[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. Electronic devices may include a display for visualizing information. As the number of functions supported by electronic devices increases, the size of the display may increase to visualize more information to the user and / or to support the execution of the functions. For example, electronic devices may be designed to be reduced in size and / or volume while maintaining or increasing the size of the display.

[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-described matters constitute prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part, a flexible display disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part, a memory including one or more storage media storing instructions, and at least one processor including a processing circuit. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display a first execution screen associated with a first application on the flexible display. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display at least one icon associated with at least one application on an area of ​​the flexible display. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to receive an input for moving the at least one icon to a defined portion of the flexible display. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to, based on receiving the input, display a second execution screen associated with the at least one application in the defined portion of the flexible display and display the first execution screen associated with the first application by moving it to the left or right of the second execution screen.

[0005] In one embodiment, a method of an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled to the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled to the second housing part, and a flexible display disposed on a front surface of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. The method may include an operation of displaying a first execution screen related to a first application on the flexible display. The method may include an operation of displaying at least one icon related to at least one application on an area of ​​the flexible display. The method may include an operation of receiving an input for moving the at least one icon to a defined area of ​​the flexible display. The method may include an operation of displaying a second execution screen related to the at least one application on the defined area of ​​the flexible display based on receiving the input, and displaying the first execution screen related to the first application by moving it to the left or right of the second execution screen.

[0006] According to an embodiment, an electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part, a flexible display disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part, a memory including one or more storage media storing instructions, and at least one processor including a processing circuit. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display a first execution screen on the flexible display. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to receive an input for dragging an icon associated with a second execution screen. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen on the first portion and the second portion, and to display the first execution screen reduced according to the size of the third portion of the flexible display located on the third housing part, based on receiving the input for dragging the icon to the first portion of the flexible display located on the first housing part or the second portion of the flexible display located on the second housing part.The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen, scaled down according to the size of the first portion, in the first portion, and to display the second execution screen in the second portion and the third portion, based on receiving the input for dragging the icon to the third portion of the flexible display.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method of an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part, and a flexible display disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. The method may include an operation of displaying a first execution screen on the flexible display. The method may include an operation of receiving an input for dragging an icon associated with the second execution screen. The method may include, based on receiving the input for dragging the icon to a first part of the flexible display positioned on the first housing part or a second part of the flexible display positioned on the second housing part, an operation of displaying the second execution screen on the first part and the second part, and an operation of displaying the first execution screen reduced in size according to the third part of the flexible display positioned on the third housing part, based on receiving the input for dragging the icon to the third part of the flexible display. The method may include, based on receiving the input for dragging the icon to the third part of the flexible display, an operation of displaying the first execution screen reduced in size according to the first part, and an operation of displaying the second execution screen on the second part and the third part.

[0008] In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions may be provided. The instructions may be executed by an electronic device, including a multi-foldable housing comprising a first housing part, a first hinge assembly, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part via the first hinge assembly, a second hinge assembly, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part via the second hinge assembly, and a flexible display disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display a first execution screen on the entire display area of ​​the flexible display in an unfolded state of the multi-foldable housing. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to receive an input for further displaying a second execution screen in the display area. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen in a first portion of the display area positioned on the first housing part and a second portion of the display area positioned on the second housing part, in response to the input received while displaying the first execution screen of the first category. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen in a third portion of the display area defined by a foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the second hinge assembly and positioned on the third housing part.The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen in the second portion and the third portion defined by the foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the first hinge assembly, in response to the input received while displaying the first execution screen of the second category. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen in the first portion.

[0009] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a multi-foldable housing including a first housing part, a first hinge assembly, a second housing part rotatably coupled to the first housing part via the first hinge assembly, a second hinge assembly, and a third housing part rotatably coupled to the second housing part via the second hinge assembly. The electronic device may include a flexible display disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part, a memory including one or more storage media storing instructions, and at least one processor including a processing circuit. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display a first execution screen on the entire display area of ​​the flexible display in an unfolded state of the multi-foldable housing. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to receive an input for further displaying a second execution screen in the display area. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to, in response to the input received while displaying the first execution screen of the first category, display the second execution screen in a first portion of the display area positioned on the first housing part and a second portion of the display area positioned on the second housing part, and display the first execution screen in a third portion of the display area defined by a foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the second hinge assembly and positioned on the third housing part.The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to, in response to the input received while displaying the first execution screen of the second category, display the first execution screen in the second portion and the third portion defined by the foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the first hinge assembly, and to display the first execution screen in the first portion.

[0010] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of a first state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device.

[0011] FIG. 1b illustrates an example of a second state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device.

[0012] FIG. 2A is a plan view of an electronic device in a first state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device with the display removed.

[0013] FIG. 2b is a rear view of the multi-foldable electronic device in a first state of the exemplary multi-foldable electronic device with the back cover and sub-display removed.

[0014] FIG. 3A illustrates an example of a first state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device with different arrangements of housings.

[0015] FIG. 3b illustrates an example of a second state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device with different arrangements of housings.

[0016] FIG. 3c illustrates an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device in a second state, where a portion of the display is exposed to the outside.

[0017] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate exemplary states of an electronic device displaying one or more execution screens on a flexible display.

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates an example block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F, and 7G illustrate exemplary states of an electronic device displaying an execution screen according to an input for a visual object such as an icon.

[0021] FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C illustrate exemplary states of an electronic device displaying an execution screen according to an input for a visual object such as an icon.

[0022] Figures 9a and 9b illustrate exemplary states of an electronic device related to input for additionally displaying an execution screen.

[0023] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate exemplary states of an electronic device related to input for additionally displaying an execution screen.

[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates exemplary states of an electronic device related to input to foldable portions of a flexible display.

[0025] FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C illustrate exemplary states of an electronic device that changes the layout of execution screens in response to input to a visual object, such as a handle.

[0026] FIG. 13 illustrates exemplary states of an electronic device that changes the layout of execution screens according to input to a visual object such as a handle.

[0027] FIG. 14 illustrates exemplary states of an electronic device that change the layout of execution screens according to the rotation of the electronic device.

[0028] FIG. 15 illustrates exemplary states of an electronic device that changes the layout of execution screens according to input for visual objects such as icons.

[0029] FIG. 16 illustrates exemplary states of an electronic device including a cover display and a flexible display.

[0030] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary state of an electronic device displaying an execution screen having a layout based on a foldable portion of a flexible display.

[0031] Hereinafter, various embodiments of this document are described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0032] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of a first state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device. FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a second state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device.

[0033] Some of the displays of the electronic device (100) may be flexible. The flexible display (140) of the electronic device (100) is flexible and can be folded at least once. The electronic device (100) may be referred to as a foldable electronic device or a multi-foldable electronic device in that the flexible display (140) has a structure that allows it to be folded multiple times. The electronic device (100) may have a plurality of folding axes (e.g., a first folding axis (f1) and a second folding axis (f2)). The electronic device (100) may be in a plurality of states, including a first state (100a) (e.g., an unfolded state) in which the device is fully unfolded relative to a plurality of folding axes (f1, f2), a second state (100b) (e.g., a folded state) in which the device is fully folded relative to a plurality of folding axes (f1, f2), and a third state (e.g., an intermediate state) other than the first state (100a) and the second state (100b). The third state may be a state in which the device is fully folded or unfolded relative to one of the plurality of folding axes (f1, f2), or partially folded relative to at least one of the plurality of folding axes (f1, f2). The first state (100a) may be exemplarily described with reference to FIG. 1A, and the second state (100b) may be exemplarily described with reference to FIG. 1B.

[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the electronic device (100) may include a first housing (110), a second housing (120), a third housing (130), a flexible display (140), a first hinge structure (150), a second hinge structure (160), and a display (170). The first housing (110) may be rotatably coupled to the second housing (120) via the first hinge structure (150). For example, the first housing (110) and the second housing (120) may rotate about the first folding axis (f1) via the first hinge structure (150) disposed along the first folding axis (f1). The third housing (130) may be rotatably coupled to the second housing (120) via the second hinge structure (160). For example, the second housing (120) and the third housing (130) can rotate about the second folding axis (f2) through the second hinge structure (160) arranged along the second folding axis (f2).

[0035] The flexible display (140) can form at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (100). The flexible display (140) can be partially disposed within the first housing (110), the second housing (120), and the third housing (130). The flexible display (140) can define the front of the electronic device (100) by forming one side (110a) of the first housing (110), one side (120a) of the second housing (120), and one side (130a) of the third housing (130). The flexible display (140) can include an area where a front camera (149) is positioned. The area of ​​the flexible display (140) can include an opening for the front camera (149). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the front camera (149) may be positioned below an area corresponding to the above area of ​​the flexible display (140). The flexible display (140) may provide visual information to a user through the above area, and the front camera (149) may obtain an image of an external object located in a direction facing the front of the electronic device (100) through the above area of ​​the flexible display (140).

[0036] The flexible display (140) may include a first planar portion (141), a second planar portion (142), a third planar portion (143), a first deformable portion (144), and a second deformable portion (145). The first planar portion (141) may be disposed on one side (110a) of the first housing (110). The second planar portion (142) may be disposed on one side (120a) of the second housing (120). The third planar portion (143) may be disposed on one side (130b) of the third housing (130). The first deformable portion (144) may be located between the first planar portion (141) and the second planar portion (142). For example, the first deformation portion (144) may be disposed on the first hinge structure (150) connecting the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). The second deformation portion (145) may be disposed between the second flat portion (142) and the third flat portion (143). For example, the second deformation portion (145) may be disposed on the second hinge structure (160) connecting the second housing (120) and the third housing (130).

[0037] The first flat portion (141), the second flat portion (142), and the third flat portion (143) of the flexible display (140) can maintain a flat surface regardless of the state of the electronic device (100). The first deformable portion (141) and the second deformable portion (142) of the flexible display (140) can be unfolded or bent depending on the state of the electronic device (100).

[0038] The display (170), the first rear cover (181), and the second rear cover (182) may form at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (100). The first rear cover (181) may form the other side (110b) of the first housing (110), the display (170) may form the other side (120b) of the second housing (120), and the second rear cover (182) may be formed on the other side (130b) of the third housing (130). The display (170), the first rear cover (181), and the second rear cover (182) may define the rear of the electronic device (100). The first rear cover (181) may include a structure (e.g., an opening) for exposing a rear camera (175) disposed within the first housing (110). The display (170) may include an area where a front camera (171) is positioned. The area of ​​the display (170) may include an opening for the front camera (171).

[0039] The side surface (110c) of the first housing (110) positioned between one side (110a) of the first housing (110) and the other side (110b) of the first housing (110) can surround the internal space of the first housing (110) together with the first hinge structure (150), the one side (110a) of the first housing (110) and the other side (110b) of the first housing (110). The side surface (120c) of the second housing (120) positioned between one side (120a) of the second housing (120) and the other side (120b) of the second housing (120) can surround the internal space of the second housing (120) together with the first hinge structure (150), the second hinge structure (160), the one side (120a) of the second housing (120) and the other side (120b) of the second housing (120). The side surface (130c) of the third housing (130) positioned between one side (130a) of the third housing (130) and the other side (130b) of the third housing (130) can surround the internal space of the third housing (130) together with the second hinge structure (160), one side (130a) of the third housing (130) and the other side (130b) of the third housing (130).

[0040] The first housing (110), the second housing (120), and the third housing (130) may include conductive portions (111, 121, 131) and non-conductive portions (112, 122, 332) disposed on a side surface (110c) of the first housing (110), a side surface (120c) of the second housing (120), and a side surface (130c) of the third housing (130). The first non-conductive portions (112) disposed between the first conductive portions (111) and the first conductive portions (111) may define a side surface (110c) of the first housing (110). The second non-conductive portions (122) disposed between the second conductive portions (121) and the second conductive portions (121) may define a side surface (120c) of the second housing (120). The third non-conductive portions (132) disposed between the third conductive portions (131) and the third conductive portions (131) may define a side surface (130c) of the third housing (130). Some of the conductive portions (111, 121, 131) may function as antenna radiators.

[0041] The electronic device (100) may include at least one microphone hole (191) and at least one speaker hole (196, 197, 198). In one embodiment, at least one microphone hole (191) may be formed in a portion of a side surface (110c) of the first housing (110). A microphone (not shown) for acquiring external sound may be placed inside the at least one microphone hole (191). The microphone may include multiple microphones to detect the direction of the sound. For example, one microphone may be placed in a microphone hole located at the top of the first housing (110), and another microphone may be placed in a microphone hole located at the bottom of the first housing (310).

[0042] At least one speaker hole (196, 197, 198) may be arranged on a side surface of the housing in which the speaker is arranged. For example, the first speaker hole (196) may be arranged on a side surface (110c) of the first housing (110), the second speaker hole (197) may be arranged on a side surface (130c) of the third housing (130), and the third speaker hole (198) may be arranged on a side surface (120c) of the second housing (120). The first speaker hole (196) and the second speaker hole (197) may be arranged on an upper surface of the electronic device (100), and the third speaker hole (198) may be arranged on a lower surface of the electronic device. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the position of the speaker holes may be formed toward a side surface of the housing adjacent to the speaker within the housing.

[0043] The first hinge structure (150) can rotatably connect the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). The second hinge structure (160) can rotatably connect the second housing (120) and the third housing (130). Each of the first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can be configured to change the state of the electronic device (100) to another state by rotating the housings (110, 120, 130).

[0044] Referring to FIG. 1a, the first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can be configured to provide a first state (100a) in which one side (110a) of the first housing (110), one side (120a) of the second housing (120), and one side (130a) of the third housing (130) face the same direction. In the first state (100a), the first deformable portion (144) and the second deformable portion (145) can be arranged on the same plane as the first planar portion (141), the second planar portion (142), and the third planar portion (143). For example, the first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) can provide the first deformable portion (144) and the second deformable portion (145) that form a substantially planar surface in the first state (100a).

[0045] Referring to FIG. 1b, in the second state (100b), the first hinge structure (150) may be configured to provide a state in which one side (110a) of the first housing (110) and one side (120a) of the second housing (120) face in opposite directions, and the second hinge structure (160) may be configured to provide a state in which one side (120a) of the second housing (120) and one side (130a) of the third housing (130) face in opposite directions. For example, in the second state (100b), the first deformable portion (144) may be bent so that the first planar portion (141) and the second planar portion (142) face in opposite directions. In the second state (100b), the second deformed portion (145) can be bent so that the second planar portion (142) and the third planar portion (143) face opposite directions.

[0046] In the second state (100b), the third housing (130) may be positioned between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). At least a portion of the side surface (130c) of the third housing (130) may face the first deformation part (144) disposed in the first hinge structure (150).

[0047] A specific description of the first hinge structure (150) and the second hinge structure (160) configured to provide multiple states (e.g., a first state (100a), a second state (100b), or a third state) of the electronic device (100) can be described through FIG. 2a.

[0048] FIG. 2A is a plan view of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device in a first state with the display removed. FIG. 2B is a rear view of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device in a first state with the back cover and sub-display removed.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2a, a first hinge structure (150) of an electronic device (100) may include at least one first hinge plate (211a), at least one second hinge plate (211b), a set of a plurality of hinge gears (213a, 213b), and a support plate (215). At least one first hinge plate (211a) of the first hinge structure (150) may be coupled to a first support portion (111) of a first housing (110). The first support portion (111) may support electronic components disposed within the first housing (110). At least one second hinge plate (211b) of the second hinge structure (160) may be coupled to a second support portion (121) of a second housing (120). The second support portion (121) can support electronic components arranged within the second housing (120). Each set of the first hinge gear sets (213a, 213b) can rotatably connect the first support portion (111) and the second support portion (121) with respect to the first folding axis (f1).

[0050] The second hinge structure (160) of the electronic device (100) may include at least one third hinge plate (221a), at least one fourth hinge plate (221b), and a set of a plurality of hinge gears (223a, 223b). At least one third hinge plate (221a) of the second hinge structure (160) may be coupled to a second support portion (121) of the second housing (120). At least one fourth hinge plate (221b) of the second hinge structure (160) may be coupled to a third support portion (131) of the third housing (130). The third support portion (113) may support electronic components arranged within the third housing (130). Each set of the second hinge gears (223a, 223b) can rotatably connect the second support part (121) and the third support part (131) with respect to the second folding axis (f2).

[0051] The width (w1) of the first hinge structure (150) arranged along the first folding axis (f1) may be wider than the width (w2) of the second hinge structure (160) arranged along the second folding axis (f2). The difference between the width (w1) of the first hinge structure (150) and the width (w2) of the second hinge structure (160) may be equal to or greater than the thickness of the third housing (130). For example, in the second state (100b) of FIG. 1b, the width (w1) of the first hinge structure (150) may be formed wider than the width (w2) of the second hinge structure (160) so that the third housing (130) is arranged between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120).

[0052] The electronic device (100) may further include waterproofing members (230a, 230b, 230c). The waterproofing members (230a, 230b, 230c) may be attached to each of the supporting portions (111, 121, 131) of the housings (110, 120, 130) and the flexible display (140) to reduce moisture or foreign substances from entering from the outside from entering the electronic device (100). The waterproofing members (230a, 230b, 230c) may include waterproofing tape, waterproofing adhesive, double-sided tape, or adhesive.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 2b, the electronic device (100) may further include a first printed circuit board (251), a second printed circuit board (252), a third printed circuit board (253), and a plurality of sub-printed circuit boards (255).

[0054] A first printed circuit board (251) may be disposed within a first housing (110). The first printed circuit board (251) may be in contact with another surface of a first support portion (111) of the first housing (110). A plurality of electronic components for driving an electronic device (100) may be disposed on the first printed circuit board (251). The plurality of electronic components may include at least one processor including a processing circuit, at least one memory including a storage medium, a wireless communication circuit for performing wireless communication with an external electronic device, and at least one rear camera (175). The at least one rear camera (175) may be visually exposed through a part of a structure (e.g., an opening) of the rear surface (110b) of the first housing (110).

[0055] The second printed circuit board (252) may be disposed within the second housing (120). The second printed circuit board (252) may be in contact with the other surface of the second support portion (121) of the second housing (120). A plurality of electronic components may be disposed on the second printed circuit board (252). The plurality of electronic components disposed on the second printed circuit board (252) may include components that assist the plurality of electronic components disposed on the first printed circuit board (251) or may operate independently. The plurality of electronic components disposed on the second printed circuit board (252) may include circuits for driving a speaker and / or a front camera (171) and a display (e.g., the display (170) of FIG. 1B).

[0056] A third printed circuit board (253) may be disposed within a third housing (130). The third printed circuit board (253) may be in contact with another surface of the third support portion (131) of the third housing (130). A plurality of electronic components may be disposed on the third printed circuit board (253). The plurality of electronic components disposed on the third printed circuit board (253) may include components that assist the plurality of electronic components disposed on the first printed circuit board (251) and / or the second printed circuit board (252) or may operate independently. The plurality of electronic components disposed on the third printed circuit board (253) may include a circuit for driving a flexible display (e.g., the display (140) of FIG. 1A).

[0057] The first sub-printed circuit board (255a) can be in contact with the other surface of the first support portion (111) of the first housing (110). A plurality of electronic components can be arranged on the first sub-printed circuit board (255a). The plurality of electronic components arranged on the first sub-printed circuit board (255a) can assist the plurality of electronic components arranged on the first printed circuit board (251). A speaker can be arranged on the first sub-printed circuit board (255a). The first sub-printed circuit board (255a) can be connected to an interface (291) configured to be electrically connected to an external electronic device. Power or data can be transmitted and received from the external electronic device through the interface (291).

[0058] The second sub-printed circuit board (255b) may be in contact with the other surface of the second support portion (121) of the second housing (120). A plurality of electronic components may be arranged on the second sub-printed circuit board (255b). The plurality of electronic components arranged on the second sub-printed circuit board (255b) may assist the plurality of electronic components arranged on the second printed circuit board (252). A motor may be arranged on the second sub-printed circuit board (255b). The motor may be configured to provide a notification provided from the electronic device (100) through tactile information.

[0059] The third sub-printed circuit board (255c) may be in contact with the other surface of the third support portion (131) of the third housing (130). A plurality of electronic components may be arranged on the third sub-printed circuit board (255c). The plurality of electronic components arranged on the third sub-printed circuit board (255c) may assist the plurality of electronic components arranged on the third printed circuit board (253). A speaker may be arranged on the third sub-printed circuit board (255c). The plurality of speakers arranged on the first sub-printed circuit board (255a), the second printed circuit board (252), and the third sub-printed circuit board (255c) may be configured to provide audio information from the electronic device (100). The printed circuit boards or sub-printed circuit boards on which the plurality of speakers are arranged are exemplary and may be arranged at different locations. Some of the plurality of sub-printed circuit boards (255) may be omitted depending on the arrangement of electronic components, or other sub-printed circuit boards other than the plurality of sub-printed circuit boards (255) may be added.

[0060] The electronic device (100) may further include a plurality of batteries (261, 262, 263). Each of the plurality of batteries (261, 262, 263) may be coupled to support portions (111, 121, 131) within housings (110, 120, 130) of the electronic device (100). Each of the support portions (111, 121, 131) may support a plurality of rechargeable batteries (261, 262, 263). The plurality of batteries (261, 262, 263) may be disposed in recessed portions within the support portions (111, 121, 131).

[0061] The electronic device (100) may further include an antenna module (259). The antenna module (259) may be disposed within the first housing (110). The antenna module (259) may be disposed between the first battery (261) and the first rear cover (181). The antenna module (259) may include, for example, a near field communication (NFC) antenna, a wireless charging antenna, and / or a magnetic secure transmission (MST) antenna. The antenna module may, for example, perform short-range communication with an external device or wirelessly transmit and receive power with the external device.

[0062] The first battery (261) may be disposed between the first printed circuit board (251) and the first sub-printed circuit board (255a) on the first support portion (111) of the first housing (110). The second battery (262) may be disposed between the second printed circuit board (252) and the second sub-printed circuit board (255b) on the second support portion (121) of the second housing (120). The third battery (263) may be disposed between the third printed circuit board (253) and the third sub-printed circuit board (255c) on the third support portion (131) of the third housing (130).

[0063] In one embodiment, the housings (110, 120, 130) of the electronic device (100) may refer to a configuration or structure that forms at least a portion of the exterior of the electronic device (100). In this respect, at least a portion of the flexible display (140), the display (170), the first rear cover (181), and the second rear cover (182) that form the exterior of the electronic device (100) may be referred to as the housing of the electronic device (100).

[0064] The electronic device (100) may include a plurality of flexible printed circuit boards (270). The plurality of flexible printed circuit boards (270) may electrically connect electronic components disposed in each of the housings (110, 120, 130) to each other. For example, a first flexible printed circuit board (271) may electrically connect a first printed circuit board (251) and a second printed circuit board (252). A second flexible printed circuit board (272) may electrically connect a second printed circuit board (252) and a third printed circuit board (153). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and at least one of the plurality of flexible printed circuit boards (270) may electrically connect all of the first printed circuit board (251), the second printed circuit board (252), and the third printed circuit board (253). A plurality of flexible printed circuit boards (270) may extend into each of the housings (110, 120, 130) by penetrating the first hinge structure (250) or the second hinge structure (260).

[0065] FIG. 3A illustrates an example of a folded state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device having different arrangements of housings. FIG. 3B illustrates an example of an unfolded state of an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device having different arrangements of housings.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the electronic device (300) may include a first housing (310), a second housing (320), a third housing (330), a flexible display (341), a display (342), a first hinge structure (350), a second hinge structure (360), and a display (370). The first housing (310) may be disposed between the second housing (320) and the third housing (330). The first housing (310) may be rotatably coupled to the second housing (320) via the first hinge structure (350). For example, the first housing (310) and the second housing (320) may rotate about the first folding axis (f1) via the first hinge structure (350) disposed along the first folding axis (f1). The third housing (330) can be rotatably coupled to the first housing (310) via a second hinge structure (360). For example, the first housing (310) and the third housing (330) can rotate about the second folding axis (f2) via the second hinge structure (360) arranged along the second folding axis (f2). The rear camera (345) can be exposed through the rear plate (346) of the first housing (310). The third housing (330) can include a display (342).

[0067] Referring to FIG. 3a, the first hinge structure (350) and the second hinge structure (360) can be configured to provide a first state (300a) in which the first planar portion (341-1) of the flexible display (341) on the first housing (310), the second planar portion (341-2) of the flexible display (341) on the second housing (320), and the third planar portion (341-3) of the flexible display (341) on the third housing (330) face the same direction. The first deformable portion (341-4) can be disposed between the first planar portion (341-1) and the second planar portion (341-2). The second deformable portion (341-5) can be disposed between the first planar portion (341-1) and the third planar portion (341-3). In the first state (300a), the first deformable portion (341-4) and the second deformable portion (341-5) can be arranged on the same plane as the first planar portion (341-1), the second planar portion (341-2), and the third planar portion (341-3). For example, the first hinge structure (350) and the second hinge structure (360) can provide the first deformable portion (341-4) and the second deformable portion (341-5) that form a substantially planar surface in the first state (300a).

[0068] Referring to FIG. 3b, in the second state (300b), the first hinge structure (350) may be configured to provide a state in which the first planar portion (341-1) of the flexible display (341) and the second planar portion (341-2) of the flexible display (341) face in opposite directions, and the second hinge structure (360) may be configured to provide a state in which the first planar portion (341-1) of the flexible display (341) and the third planar portion (341-3) of the flexible display (341) face in opposite directions. For example, in the second state (300b), the first deformable portion (341-4) may be bent so that the first planar portion (341-1) and the second planar portion (341-2) face in opposite directions. In the second state (300b), the second deformed portion (341-5) can be bent so that the first planar portion (341-1) and the third planar portion (341-3) face opposite directions.

[0069] In the second state (300b), the third housing (330) may be positioned between the first housing (310) and the second housing (320). At least a portion of the side surface (330c) of the third housing (330) may face the first deformable part (341-4) disposed in the first hinge structure (350).

[0070] The display (342) may include an area where a camera (343) is positioned. The area of ​​the display (342) may include an opening for the camera (343).

[0071] The electronic device (300) of FIGS. 3A and 3B may be substantially identical to the electronic device (100) of FIGS. 1A and 1B, except that the third housing (330) of the electronic device (300) is connected to the first housing (310).

[0072] FIG. 3c illustrates an exemplary multi-foldable electronic device in which, in a folded state, a portion of the display is exposed to the outside.

[0073] The flexible display (140, 341) of the electronic device (100, 300) of FIGS. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, and 3b may not be substantially exposed to the outside of the electronic device (100, 300) in the second state (100b, 300b). A portion (370a) of the flexible display (370) of the electronic device (300-1) of FIG. 3c may be exposed to the outside in the second state (300b) and function as a sub-display (e.g., the display (170, 342) of FIGS. 1a, 1b).

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3C, the electronic device (300-1) may include a first housing (310-1), a second housing (320-1), a third housing (330-1), a first hinge structure (350-1), a second hinge structure (360-1), and a flexible display (370). The first housing (310-1) may be rotatably coupled to the second housing (320-1) via the first hinge structure (350-1). The third housing (330-1) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing (310-1) via the second hinge structure (360-1). The rear camera (345-1) may be exposed via the rear plate (346) of the first housing (310-1).

[0075] When changing from an unfolded state to a folded state, a portion of the flexible display (370) disposed on the first housing (310-1) and a rigid portion of the flexible display (370) disposed on the second housing (320-1) may face each other. For example, in the second state (300b), the rigid portion of the flexible display (370) disposed on the first housing (310-1) and the rigid portion of the flexible display (370) disposed on the second housing (320-1) may not be visually exposed to the outside. The portion of the flexible display (370) disposed on the first housing (310-1) and the portion of the flexible display (370) disposed on the second housing (320-1) may be folded and positioned inside by being wrapped by the components of the electronic device (300-1). The rigid portion (370a) of the flexible display (370) disposed on the third housing (330-1) may face the outside of the electronic device (300-1) in the second state. For example, the front surface of the third housing (330-1) on which the flexible display (370) is disposed may be exposed to the outside of the electronic device (300-1). The rigid portion (370a) of the flexible display (370) disposed on the third housing (330-1) may be configured to provide visual information to the outside in the second state.

[0076] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate exemplary states (401, 402, 403) of an electronic device (100) displaying one or more execution screens on a flexible display (140). The housing of the electronic device (100) may be referred to as a case of the electronic device (100). The housing may include plastic, glass, ceramic, fiber materials, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, and / or titanium), other suitable materials, or a combination thereof. The housing may include an internal frame structure and / or one or more structures forming a housing surface. An example of a hardware configuration included in the housing of the electronic device (100) is described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the housing of the electronic device (100) may include a first housing part (110), a first hinge assembly (150), a second housing part (120), a second hinge assembly (160), and a third housing part (130). The second housing part (120) may be rotatably coupled to the first housing part (110) via the first hinge assembly (150). For example, the first housing part (110) may rotate with respect to the second housing part (120) around the first folding axis (f1) of the first hinge assembly (150). The third housing part (130) may be rotatably coupled to the second housing part (120) via the second hinge assembly (160). For example, the third housing part (130) can rotate with respect to the second housing part (120) based on the second folding axis (f2) of the second hinge assembly (160). From the perspective of including a plurality of folding axes (e.g., the first folding axis (f1) and the second folding axis (f2)), the housing of the electronic device (100) including the first housing part (110), the first hinge assembly (150), the second housing part (120), the second hinge assembly (160), and the third housing part (130) can be referred to as a multi-foldable housing. The electronic device (100) including the multi-foldable housing can be referred to as a multi-foldable electronic device.

[0078] Each of the housing parts of the electronic device (100) (e.g., the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130)) may be a rigid body and may be referred to as a housing assembly, a sub-housing, a flat housing, and / or a rigid housing. An electronic device (100) including three rigid housings (e.g., the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130)) may be referred to as a trifold electronic device.

[0079] Each of the hinge assemblies (e.g., the first hinge assembly (150) and the second hinge assembly (160)) of the housing of the electronic device (100) may be referred to as a hinge housing, a foldable housing, a rotatable housing, a joint housing, a hinge, and / or a flexible housing. By the first hinge assembly (150), the relative position, posture, angle, shape, and / or distance of the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120) may be changed by an external force. In the present disclosure, the first angle may refer to an angle (e.g., an angle formed at the front surface) between the first housing part (110), the first hinge assembly (150) (or the first folding axis (f1)), and the second housing part (120). By means of the second hinge assembly (160), the relative position, posture, angle, shape, and / or distance of the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130) can be changed by an external force. In the present disclosure, the second angle may refer to an angle (e.g., an angle formed at the front surface) between the second housing part (120), the second hinge assembly (160) (or the second folding axis (f2)), and the third housing part (130).

[0080] In one embodiment, the state (or shape) of the electronic device (100) can be classified into a plurality of designated states based on a first angle of the first folding axis (f1) and a second angle of the second folding axis (f2). For example, the plurality of designated states can include an unfolded state in which the first angle and the second angle are substantially parallel (e.g., approximately 180°). The unfolded state can be referred to as a fully unfolded state, an open state, a fully open state, an unfolded state, a flat state, an outspread state, and / or a planar state. In the unfolded state, the flexible display (140) can have a planar shape. In the unfolded state, the directions of the portions of the flexible display (140) positioned in each of the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130) can be parallel to each other and / or coincident with each other.

[0081] For example, the plurality of designated states may include a folded state in which both the first angle and the second angle are substantially 0°. The folded state may be referred to as a fully folded state, a folded state, a closed state, and / or a fully closed state. In the folded state, the flexible display (140) may be visually obscured and / or hidden by the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130). In the folded state, the visible size of the flexible display (140) may be substantially 0°.

[0082] For example, the plurality of designated states may include an intermediate state between an unfolded state and a folded state. In the intermediate state, at least one of the first angle and the second angle may be less than a parallel angle. In the intermediate state, both the first angle and the second angle may be greater than 0°. In an e-shaped (or G-shaped) foldable electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4A and / or 4B ), the intermediate state may be referred to as an in-fold state, a sub-unfolded state (or a sub-folded state), a sub-folded state, and / or a concave state. In an S-shaped (or Z-shaped) foldable electronic device, the intermediate state may be referred to as an out-folded state and / or a convex state. In the intermediate state, at least two of the orientations of the portions of the flexible display (140) positioned in each of the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130) may be different from each other.

[0083] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a front view of an electronic device (100) (or a housing of the electronic device (100)) in which a flexible display (140) is positioned, according to one embodiment. The flexible display (140) may extend from one side of a first housing part (110), across one side of a second housing part (120), and to one side of a third housing part (130). For example, the flexible display (140) may be disposed on the front sides of the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130). Since the flexible display (140) is positioned on the first hinge assembly (150) and the second hinge assembly (160), the portions of the flexible display (140) positioned on the first folding axis (f1) of the first hinge assembly (150) and the second folding axis (f2) of the second hinge assembly (160) can be folded or bent by an external force. By rotation about the first folding axis (f1) and / or rotation about the second folding axis (f2), a wrinkle can be formed on the flexible display (140). The wrinkle can have a shape parallel to the folding axes (e.g., the first folding axis (f1) and / or the second folding axis (f2)) on the flexible display (140).

[0084] The flexible display (140) positioned on the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130) may include a first portion (r1) positioned on the first housing part (110), a second portion (r2) positioned on the second housing part (120), and a third portion (r3) positioned on the third housing part (130). The first portion (r1) may be distinguished from the remaining portion (e.g., the second portion (r2)) of the flexible display (140) by a first foldable portion of the flexible display (140) corresponding to the first hinge assembly (150). The second portion (r2) can be distinguished from the remaining portions of the flexible display (140) (e.g., the first portion (r1) and the third portion (r3)) by the second foldable portion of the flexible display (140) corresponding to the first foldable portion and the second hinge assembly (160). The third portion (r3) can be distinguished from the remaining portions of the flexible display (140) (e.g., the second portion (r2)) by the second foldable portion.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 4A, an exemplary state (401) is illustrated for displaying a (single) execution screen on the entire display area (or active area) of the flexible display (140). Based on the execution of a web browser, an exemplary state (401) for displaying an execution screen provided (or generated) by the web browser is illustrated, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can display the execution screen through the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140) in an unfolded state in which the flexible display (140) has a flat shape.

[0086] In one embodiment, an electronic device (100) supporting multi-tasking (or multi-window) can substantially simultaneously execute multiple programs (or software applications). The electronic device (100) can display multiple execution screens, each provided by the simultaneously executed programs, on a flexible display (140). An exemplary operation of the electronic device (100) displaying multiple execution screens on the flexible display (140) is described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 16 .

[0087] For example, the layout of execution screens displayed simultaneously on the flexible display (140) can be classified into picture-by-picture (PBP) or picture-in-picture (PIP). Based on PIP, the electronic device (100) can display execution screens on the flexible display (140) such that a specific execution screen overlaps another execution screen. Based on PBP, the electronic device (100) can display execution screens on the flexible display (140) such that a specific execution screen is displayed next to another execution screen. When the execution screens occupy different parts of the display area based on PBP, a boundary line of the execution screens can be formed on the flexible display (140).

[0088] In one embodiment, when displaying execution screens based on PBP, the electronic device (100) may change the properties of the execution screens so that the boundary line of the execution screens is located on one of the folding axes (e.g., the first folding axis (f1) and the second folding axis (f2)). Since the boundary line is located on the folding axis, the boundary line may be located on a foldable portion of the flexible display (140) that is foldable by the folding axis. Since a user tends to focus on the content of one of the execution screens rather than the boundary line, the probability (or time) of the foldable portion where the boundary line is located being focused on (or viewed) by the user may be reduced. For example, the content of the execution screen may not be distorted by the foldable portion, and the user may view the content without the distortion.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 4B, exemplary states (402, 403) of an electronic device (100) displaying a plurality of execution screens on a flexible display (140) are illustrated. In the state (402) of displaying two execution screens, the electronic device (100) may display execution screens having a boundary line formed based on a second foldable portion positioned on the second folding axis (f2) among the first folding axis (f1) and the second folding axis (f2). For example, execution screens having an area ratio (or size ratio) of 1:2 may be displayed based on the second hinge assembly (160) (or the second foldable portion). In one embodiment of the electronic device (100) including two folding axes, the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) may be unequally divided by one folding axis.

[0090] In the exemplary state (402) of FIG. 4B, the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen (e.g., an execution screen of a web browser) in a third portion (r3) of the display area located on the third housing part (130), among portions of the display area that are unequally divided by the second folding axis (f2), and may display a second execution screen (e.g., an execution screen of a video playback application) in a combination of the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2) of the display area. The electronic device (100) may logically divide the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) based on the foldable portion (e.g., a crease) of the flexible display (140) and / or the hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (150) and the second hinge assembly (160)) of the flexible display (140). Each of the logically separated display areas (e.g., a first portion (r1), a second portion (r2), and a third portion (r3)) may be referred to as a logical display.

[0091] For example, the electronic device (100) may assign portions of a logically separated display area to each of the execution screens to be simultaneously displayed on the flexible display (140). The electronic device (100) may assign a relatively large number of portions (portions adjacent to each other on the flexible display (140)) to a specific execution screen, thereby causing the specific execution screen to be displayed larger within the flexible display (140) than other execution screens. The electronic device (100) may unevenly map or determine portions of the flexible display (140) on which the execution screens are to be displayed, depending on the number of programs executed to provide the execution screens and / or the types (e.g., categories, groups, genres, and / or classifications) of the programs.

[0092] In the exemplary state (402) of FIG. 4B, the electronic device (100) can control the flexible display (140) so that the execution screen of the video playback application is displayed on at least two parts (e.g., the first part (r1) and the second part (r2)) of the display area of ​​the flexible display (140), and so that the execution screen of the web browser is displayed on the remaining part (e.g., the third part (r3)) of the display area of ​​the flexible display (140).

[0093] Within the state (402), if an additional input for additionally executing a program is received, the electronic device (100) may switch from the state (402) to the state (403). Within the exemplary state (403) of FIG. 4B , the electronic device (100) may display three execution screens in each of the portions of the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) (e.g., the first portion (r1), the second portion (r2), and the third portion (r3)). For example, within the first portion (r1) of the display area of ​​the flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) may display an execution screen of a messenger application, within the second portion (r2), the execution screen of a video playback application, and within the third portion (r3), the execution screen of a web browser application.

[0094] Referring to an exemplary state (403) of FIG. 4B, an electronic device (100) including three foldable housing parts (e.g., a first housing part (110), a second housing part (120), and a third housing part (130)) can, when displaying three execution screens, display or allocate the three execution screens on portions of a display area positioned on the housing parts, respectively (e.g., a first portion (r1), a second portion (r2), and a third portion (r3)). For example, the electronic device (100) can display an execution screen of a messenger application within a first part (r1) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a first housing part (110), display an execution screen of a video playback application within a second part (r2) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a second housing part (120), and display an execution screen of a messenger application within a third part (r3) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a third housing part (130). In a state (403) of displaying three execution screens, the electronic device (100) can control the flexible display (140) so that the sizes of the parts of the flexible display (140) on which the execution screens are displayed are identical to each other.

[0095] As described above, according to one embodiment, when displaying a plurality of execution screens on the flexible display (140) in an unfolded state, the electronic device (100) may separately display the plurality of execution screens based on at least one of the folding axes (e.g., the first folding axis (f1) and the second folding axis (f2)). When displaying two execution screens (e.g., the state (402) of FIG. 4B), the sizes of the execution screens displayed by the electronic device (100) on the flexible display (140) may not match each other. Since the boundary line of the execution screens is located on the foldable portion of the flexible display (140) (e.g., the portion of the flexible display (140) on the first hinge assembly (150) and / or the portion of the flexible display (140) on the second hinge assembly (160), the visibility of the foldable portion where the boundary line is located may be reduced.

[0096] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5, the hardware configuration of the electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4a and 4b is exemplarily described.

[0097] FIG. 5 illustrates an example block diagram of an electronic device (100), according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 5 , the electronic device (100), according to one embodiment, may include a processor (510) and a memory (520). The electronic device (100) may include a flexible display (140). The electronic device (100) may further include a sensor (530). The electronic device (100) may include a cover display (170). The processor (510) may be electrically and / or operatively coupled to the memory (520), the sensor (530), the flexible display (140), and / or the cover display (170). Electrical coupling of electronic components may include a state in which a wired signal path (or a connection for wireless communication) for transmitting signals is established between the electronic components. The operative coupling of electronic components may include a state in which the electronic components are directly coupled (or a state in which the electronic components are indirectly coupled) such that one of the electronic components controls another electronic component.

[0098] The processor (510) of FIG. 5 may include circuits (e.g., processing circuits and / or cores) for performing operations (e.g., arithmetic operations and / or logical operations) on data. Binary codes (e.g., instructions) representing the operations may be input to the processor (510). The processor (510) may include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphic processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), or a combination thereof. The processor (510) may include an arithmetic and logic unit (ALU), a floating point unit (FPU), and / or a field programmable gate array (FPGA) as processing circuits for processing operations on data. The processor (510) may include an application processor (AP) and / or a system on a chip (SoC). The processor (510) may have a structure (e.g., a multi-core structure such as a dual core, a quad core, a hexa core, or an octa core) for loading (or fetching) multiple instructions simultaneously. The functions and / or operations described with reference to the present disclosure may be individually or collectively performed by one or more processing circuits included in the processor (510).

[0099] The memory (520) of FIG. 5 may include a circuit for storing data (or instructions) input to or output from the processor (510). The memory (520) may include a volatile memory such as a random-access memory (RAM) and / or a non-volatile memory such as a read-only memory (ROM). The non-volatile memory may be referred to as storage. The volatile memory may include, for example, at least one of a dynamic RAM (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), a cache RAM, and a pseudo SRAM (PSRAM). The non-volatile memory may include, for example, at least one of a programmable ROM (PROM), an erasable PROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), a flash memory, a hard disk, a compact disc, a solid state drive (SSD), and an embedded multi media card (eMMC). The memory (520) may include one or more storage media (e.g., the volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory described above) distributedly located in the electronic device (100). The processor (510) of the electronic device (100) may execute instructions of the memory (520) within the electronic device (100) to perform functions and / or operations indicated by the instructions. For example, when the electronic device (100) includes at least one processor, the at least one processor may be configured to collectively or individually execute the instructions.

[0100] A display including a flexible display (140) and / or a cover display (170) of FIG. 5 may include circuitry for visualizing information provided from a processor (510). The display may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP), and / or light emitting diodes (LEDs). The LEDs may include organic LEDs (OLEDs). The embodiment is not limited thereto, and the display may include electronic paper. A display area (or active area) of the display may include an area where light is emitted, formed by pixels (e.g., activated pixels) of the display. The display may include a sensor (e.g., a touch sensor) for detecting an external object (e.g., a user's finger) on the display. The sensor may be included in the display in the form of a panel (e.g., a touch sensor panel (TSP)).

[0101] The sensor (530) of FIG. 5 may include circuitry for generating and / or outputting electrical information that can be processed by the processor (510) (or stored in the memory (520)) from non-electrical information. For example, the sensor (530) may generate or output information related to a state of the electronic device (100) (e.g., specified states and / or configurations of the electronic device (100) defined by the first angle and / or the second angle of the multi-foldable housing). For example, the sensor (530) may include a first sensor configured to detect a first angle between a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (110) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B) and a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (120) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B). For example, the sensor (530) may include a second sensor configured to detect a second angle between the second housing part and the third housing part (e.g., the third housing part (130) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B).

[0102] Referring to FIG. 5, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) (532) and a Hall sensor (534) are illustrated as examples of sensors that generate information related to the state of the electronic device (100). The IMU (532) may include an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, or a combination thereof. The information generated from the IMU (532) may represent the motion of the electronic device (100) based on six degrees of freedom (e.g., x-axis, roll rotation about the x-axis, y-axis, pitch rotation about the y-axis, z-axis, and yaw rotation about the z-axis). The Hall sensor (534) may include a combination of a magnet (e.g., a permanent magnet and / or an electromagnet) and a magnetic field sensor. The Hall sensor (534) may output information representing the strength of a magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor (e.g., a magnetic field generated by a magnet paired with the magnetic field sensor). The above information may depend on the positional relationship between the magnetic sensor and the magnet.

[0103] In one embodiment, the processor (510) may use information output from the sensor (530) to determine a current state of the electronic device (100) among designated states of the electronic device (100) (e.g., an unfolded state, a folded state, and / or a sub-folded state). For example, using the information, in response to detecting a first angle and a second angle included in a designated angular range including 180°, the processor (510) may determine that the state of the housing of the electronic device (100) corresponds to the unfolded state. While the housing of the electronic device (100) is in the unfolded state, the processor (510) may display an execution screen based on a program (e.g., a software application) executed by the processor (510) on the flexible display (140). The software application (or applications) may include a set of instructions stored in the memory (520).

[0104] In one embodiment including a flexible display (140) positioned on a multi-foldable housing, the electronic device (100) may include information regarding a foldable portion formed in a display area of ​​the flexible display (140) (e.g., a portion in which a crease may be formed by folding and / or rotating the multi-foldable housing). The information may be stored in the memory (520). Using the information, the processor (510) may determine sizes of the plurality of execution screens such that a boundary line between the plurality of execution screens is positioned on the foldable portion. The information may include coordinates of the foldable portion and / or dimensions of the logical display (e.g., width, height, position, size, and / or aspect ratio). Since the boundary line of the execution screens is positioned on the foldable portion, the crease of the foldable portion does not distort content included in the execution screens, and visual discomfort due to distortion may be reduced.

[0105] Below, with reference to FIG. 6, an exemplary operation of displaying execution screens on a flexible display (140) performed by a processor (510) is described.

[0106] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of an electronic device according to one embodiment. The operations of the electronic device described with reference to FIG. 6 may be performed by the electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5. The order of the operations described with reference to FIG. 6 may be performed differently from the order of FIG. 6, depending on the embodiment. For example, the operations of FIG. 6 may be performed by the electronic device in the reverse order of FIG. 6, or may be performed substantially simultaneously.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 6, in operation (610), according to one embodiment, a processor of an electronic device may receive an input for displaying a multi-window. The processor may display a visual object (e.g., a menu, an icon, a hyperlink, and / or a button) on a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (140) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B) for receiving an input of operation (610). The input of operation (610) may include a gesture associated with the visual object (e.g., a hand gesture and / or a finger gesture performed on the display). The embodiment is not limited thereto, and the input of operation (610) may include a voice input. The input of operation (610) may be identified by an external object (e.g., a remote controller) that is separate from the electronic device and / or the flexible display. The input of the action (610) can be received while displaying one or more execution screens on the flexible display.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 6, in operation (620), according to one embodiment, the processor of the electronic device may check the properties(s) of the first execution screen that was being displayed before receiving the input of operation (610) and / or the second execution screen to be further displayed on the flexible display by the input of operation (610). The properties may be included in the metadata (e.g., a designated file and / or resource such as manifest.xml) of the software application related to the first execution screen and / or the second execution screen. The properties may be set by a list (e.g., a whitelist) managed by the operating system (or framework). The properties of operation (620) may be related to the order of the sizes of the execution screens and / or the priorities of the execution screens when displaying a multi-window. The properties of the action (620) may relate to a group of the software applications, or content (e.g., video, text, web pages, and / or documents) to be provided through the software applications (or to be provided through an execution screen provided by the software applications).

[0109] Referring to FIG. 6, in operation (630), according to one embodiment, a processor of an electronic device may display a first execution screen and a second execution screen using the identified attribute(s) through each of the portions of the flexible display, which are unequally separated by one of the foldable portions of the flexible display. As described above with reference to FIGS. 4A and / or 4B , in one embodiment where the flexible display is disposed on the front surfaces of three housing parts (e.g., the first housing part (110), the second housing part (120), and the third housing part (130) of FIGS. 4A and / or 4B ), the foldable portions including the folds may be spaced apart from the center of the flexible display. For example, when the processor displays execution screens having equal sizes on the flexible display, the content of the execution screens may be positioned on the folds of the flexible display. Since the processor performs operation (630), a boundary line between execution screens can be positioned on any one of the foldable portions. That is, content included in the execution screens can be prevented from being positioned on the foldable portion where the boundary line is positioned, and distortion of the content due to the folds of the foldable portion can be prevented.

[0110] The processor can use the properties of the operation (620) to unequally determine the sizes of the execution screens. For example, the properties may include a first property (or a first group or a first category) for displaying the execution screen in a relatively large size. For example, the properties may include a second property (or a second group or a second category) for displaying the execution screen in a relatively small size. For example, the first property may be set to include a software application for playing images and / or videos (e.g., a video player, a gallery application, an OTT (over the top) application), a software application for creating (or acquiring, capturing) images and / or videos (e.g., a camera application), a software application for creating content including documents and / or images (e.g., a note application), and / or a software application for editing images and / or videos. For example, the second property may be set to include a software application such as a web browser and / or a messenger. The embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0111] For example, if the first execution screen has the first attribute and the second execution screen has the second attribute, the processor may determine the size of the first execution screen to be larger than the size of the second execution screen. In one embodiment including two foldable portions that divide the display area of ​​the flexible display into three equal parts, as described above with reference to FIGS. 4A and / or 4B , the processor may determine the ratio between the size of the first execution screen and the size of the second execution screen to be 2:1 (e.g., state (402) of FIG. 4B ). Because of the ratio between the sizes, a boundary line of the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be formed on one of the foldable portions.

[0112] For example, if two execution screens (or software applications corresponding to the two execution screens, respectively) have the same properties, the processor may determine the size of the execution screen (e.g., the first execution screen) that was being displayed before receiving the input of operation (610) to be larger than the size of the other execution screen (e.g., the second execution screen). The embodiment is not limited thereto, and the processor may determine the sizes of the two execution screens according to a setting value adjustable by the user. For example, the processor may determine the sizes of the two execution screens according to the order in which the two execution screens are displayed and / or the setting value. For example, if the properties of the two execution screens are the same and the user has set the second execution screen to be additionally displayed to be emphasized, the processor may determine the ratio between the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen to be 1:2.

[0113] Hereinafter, exemplary states of an electronic device and / or processor performing the operation of FIG. 6 are described with reference to FIGS. 7a to 7g.

[0114] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F, and 7G illustrate exemplary states (701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708) of an electronic device (100) displaying an execution screen according to an input for a visual object such as an icon (e.g., icons (711), 712, 713)). The electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and / or 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7G. The operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7G may be related to at least one of the operations of FIG. 6.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 7A, an exemplary state (701) of an electronic device (100) displaying a first execution screen on a flexible display (140) is illustrated. Within the state (701), the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen having a size of the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140) (e.g., a first portion (r1), a second portion (r2), and a third portion (r3)) on the flexible display (140). For example, the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen related to a first application. Although an exemplary state (701) of the electronic device (100) displaying a first execution screen based on the execution of a web browser is illustrated, the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 7A, within a state (701) included in an unfolded state, the electronic device (100) can display one or more execution screens using the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140). Within the state (701), the electronic device (100) can support multi-windows according to a layout linked with the foldable parts of the flexible display (140) formed on the hinge assemblies (e.g., the first hinge assembly (150) and the second hinge assembly (160)). Within the state (701) of displaying a single execution screen (e.g., the first execution screen) using the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) can display a visual object for adding an execution screen to be displayed through the flexible display (140). Referring to FIG. 7A, the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (710) referred to as an application tray (or app tray), which is an example of the visual object. The visual object (710) may be referred to as an application list (or app list), a dock area, and / or a dock menu. The visual object (710) may be referred to as a task bar and / or an edge panel.

[0117] For example, the visual object (710) may always be displayed within an unfolded state (e.g., state (701)). For example, the visual object (710) may be conditionally displayed in response to a specified gesture. The electronic device (100) may display the visual object (710) in response to a drag gesture (e.g., a swipe gesture and / or a swipe up gesture) that starts at a point on the flexible display (140) adjacent to an edge of the flexible display (140) (e.g., a bottom edge (140-b)) and moves away from the edge. In response to the drag gesture, the electronic device (100) may play an animation in which the visual object (710) is moved away from the edge. The embodiment is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (100) may display the visual object (710) in response to another gesture (e.g., a double-tap gesture on a designated portion of the flexible display (140). While one embodiment is shown that displays the visual object (710) at a location adjacent to the bottom edge (140-b), the location of the visual object (710) is not limited thereto.

[0118] The electronic device (100) may display visual objects (e.g., icons (711, 712, 713)) representing software applications installed on the electronic device (100) within the visual object (710). For example, the electronic device (100) may display at least one icon (e.g., icons (711, 712, 713)) related to at least one application. Although the operation of the electronic device (100) for receiving an input based on an icon is described, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for adding an execution screen to be displayed through the flexible display (140) through text, links, and / or menus representing the software application. Within the visual object (710), icons (711, 712, 713) may be aligned or distinguished according to the properties of the software applications corresponding to the icons (711, 712, 713), respectively.

[0119] Through the visual object (710), the electronic device (100) can receive an input indicating the execution of a software application. For example, the electronic device (100) that receives an input (e.g., an input based on a tap gesture) indicating the selection of an icon (e.g., one of the icons (711, 712, 713)) included in the visual object (710) can execute a software application corresponding to the input and display an execution screen provided from the executed software application on the flexible display (140). In response to the input, the electronic device (100) can display the execution screen provided from the executed software application on the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140). For example, the first execution screen that was being displayed on the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140) can be replaced with the execution screen provided from the executed software application.

[0120] Through the visual object (710), the electronic device (100) can receive an input for displaying another execution screen along with the first execution screen displayed on the flexible display (140). The input can be received while the state of the housing of the electronic device (100) corresponds to an unfolded state. For example, the electronic device (100) can receive the input based on a drag gesture for moving an icon (711) of the visual object (710) (e.g., an icon representing a video playback application for streaming video). For example, the input can include an input for moving at least one icon displayed through the visual object (710) to a defined (e.g., preset) area of ​​the flexible display (140). The above defined area may include either a first boundary positioned on the first hinge assembly (150) and parallel to the direction in which the first hinge assembly (150) extends, or a second boundary positioned on the second hinge assembly (160) and parallel to the direction in which the second hinge assembly (160) extends.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 7A, exemplary paths (717, 718, 719) of a gesture for dragging an icon (711) are illustrated. The gesture for dragging the icon (711) along any one of the paths (717, 718, 719) can be detected by the motion of a finger and / or a stylus (or pen) in contact with the flexible display (140) of the electronic device (100). For example, to detect the motion of the stylus, the electronic device (100) and / or the flexible display (140) may further include a sensor (e.g., a digitizer) for detecting the motion of the stylus. For example, the electronic device (100) may detect the motion from the stylus using a wireless signal received from the stylus. An electronic device (100) that receives an input for dragging an icon along a path (717) can switch from a state (701) of FIG. 7A to a state (702) of FIG. 7B. An electronic device (100) that receives an input for dragging an icon (711) along a path (718) can switch from a state (701) of FIG. 7A to a state (704) of FIG. 7C. An electronic device (100) that receives an input for dragging an icon (711) along a path (719) can switch from a state (701) of FIG. 7A to a state (706) of FIG. 7D. An electronic device (100) that receives an input for dragging an icon (711) related to a second execution screen in a state (701) displaying a first execution screen can determine the layout of the first execution screen and the second execution screen according to the path (e.g., paths (717, 718, 719)) of the icon (711) moved by the input.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 7B, in a state (702) of receiving an input for dragging an icon (711) along a path (717), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (721) to guide the position and / or size of a second execution screen corresponding to the icon (711). The visual object (721) may be displayed as an overlay on the first execution screen displayed on the flexible display (140). The visual object (721) may include a semitransparent (e.g., having a specified transparency) shape having a rectangular shape. The visual object (721) may be referred to as a visual affordance. For example, the visual object (721) may be displayed to guide a defined area of ​​the flexible display (140) where the second execution screen corresponding to the icon (711) will be displayed.

[0123] For example, when receiving an input for dragging an icon (711) for providing a second execution screen having a first property set to display an execution screen having a relatively large size, the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (721) indicating that two parts among parts (e.g., a first part (r1), a second part (r2), and a third part (r3)) of the flexible display (140) separated by folding axes (e.g., a first folding axis (f1) and a second folding axis (f2)) are allocated as the second execution screen. Referring to FIG. 7B, while receiving an input for dragging an icon (711) to a third part (r3) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a third housing part (130) along a path (717), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (721) having a shape that covers the third part (r3) and the second part (r2) next to the third part (r3). For example, the electronic device (100) may notify that a second execution screen based on the position and / or size of the visual object (721) is to be displayed together with the first execution screen when the input for dragging the icon (711) along the path (717) is terminated.

[0124] In the exemplary state (702) of FIG. 7B, when the input for dragging the icon (711) is interrupted at a point (p3) in the third portion (r3), the electronic device (100) may switch to the state (703). For example, based on receiving the input for dragging the icon (711) to the third portion (r3) of the flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) may switch from one of the states (701, 702) to the state (703). Referring to the exemplary state (703) of FIG. 7B, based on receiving the input for dragging the icon (711) to the third portion (r3), the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen reduced in size according to the first portion (r1) of the flexible display (140). Within the state (703), based on receiving an input to drag the icon (711) to the third portion (r3), the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen on the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3). For example, the electronic device (100) can display the second execution screen related to the input on a defined area of ​​the flexible display (140), and can display the first execution screen by moving it to a remaining area of ​​the flexible display (140) that is different from the defined area. For example, the electronic device (100) can display the first execution screen by moving it to the left or right side of the flexible display (140).

[0125] Referring to FIG. 7B, in a state (703) in which a second execution screen based on the execution of a software application corresponding to an icon (711) is displayed together with a first execution screen, a boundary line between the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be positioned parallel to the first folding axis (f1) on a foldable portion of the flexible display (140) adjacent to the first folding axis (f1). For example, the boundary line may be positioned at a crease formed by a first hinge assembly (150) that folds or rotates based on the first folding axis (f1). In the state (703), a user viewing the flexible display (140) may view the contents of the first execution screen and the second execution screen independently of the crease positioned on the boundary line. For example, within state (703), the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen in a defined area of ​​the flexible display (140) positioned on the second housing part (120) and the third housing part (130), which are separated by the first folding axis (f1), and can display the first execution screen by moving it to the remaining area of ​​the flexible display (140) positioned on the first housing part (110) (or the right side of the flexible display (140)).

[0126] Referring to FIG. 7c, in a state (704) of receiving an input for dragging an icon (711) along a path (718), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (741) to guide the position and / or size of a second execution screen corresponding to the icon (711). The electronic device (100) may display the visual object (741) similarly to the visual object (721) of FIG. 7b. The visual object (741) corresponding to the second execution screen provided from a software application for playing a video may have a size that occupies two parts (e.g., a first part (r1) and a second part (r2)) of the flexible display (140). Referring to FIG. 7c, while receiving an input to drag an icon (711) to a second part (r2) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a second housing part (120) along a path (718), the electronic device (100) can display a visual object (741) having a shape that occupies the second part (r2) and the first part (r1) next to the second part (r2).

[0127] In the exemplary state (704) of FIG. 7C, when the input for dragging the icon (711) is stopped at the point (p2) in the second portion (r2), the electronic device (100) may switch to the state (705). Referring to the exemplary state (705) of FIG. 7C, in response to receiving the input for dragging the icon (711) to the second portion (r2), the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen related to the icon (711) on the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2) of the flexible display (140). In response to the input, the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen reduced in size according to the size of the third portion (r3) of the flexible display (140).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 7c, in a state (705) in which a second execution screen and a first execution screen related to an icon (711) are simultaneously displayed, a boundary line of the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be formed on a foldable portion of the flexible display (140) adjacent to the second folding axis (f2). The boundary line may have a straight line shape parallel to the second folding axis (f2). For example, the boundary line may be positioned on a crease formed by a second hinge assembly (160) that folds or rotates based on the second folding axis (f2). In the state (705), a user viewing the flexible display (140) may view the contents of the first execution screen and the second execution screen independently of the crease positioned on the boundary line.

[0129] A state (704) of displaying a visual object (741) while receiving an input for dragging an icon (711) along a path (718) is exemplarily described, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, when the electronic device (100) receives an input for dragging an icon (711) along a path (718) to a second portion (r2), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object indicating that a second execution screen cannot be added to the second portion (r2).

[0130] Referring to FIG. 7d, in a state (706) of receiving an input for dragging an icon (711) along a path (719), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (741) to guide the position and / or size of the second execution screen corresponding to the icon (711). Similar to the state (704) of FIG. 7c, the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (741) having a shape and position that occupy the first part (r1) and the second part (r2) of the flexible display (140).

[0131] Referring to state (704) of FIG. 7c and / or state (705) of FIG. 7d, the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen in a defined area of ​​the flexible display (140) positioned on the first housing part (110) and the second housing part (120), which are separated by the second folding axis (f2), and can display the first execution screen by moving it to the remaining area of ​​the flexible display (140) positioned on the third housing part (130) (or the left part of the flexible display (140)).

[0132] When displaying a second execution screen together with a first execution screen displayed on a flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) may display the second execution screen on the right side of the first execution screen so that the second execution screen is displayed at a location adjacent to the right hand (e.g., a location adjacent to the right edge (140-r) of the flexible display (140). In order to facilitate interaction between the second execution screen and the right hand, the second execution screen to be additionally displayed by the input may be configured to be displayed on the right side of the first execution screen. When receiving an input other than an explicit input for displaying the second execution screen on the left side of the first execution screen, such as an input for moving an icon (711) along a path (717) of FIG. 7b, the electronic device (100) may switch to a state that guides displaying the second execution screen on the right side of the first execution screen, such as a state (704) of FIG. 7c and / or a state (706) of FIG. 7d.

[0133] In the exemplary state (706) of FIG. 7d, when the input for dragging the icon (711) is stopped at the point (p1) in the first part (r1), the electronic device (100) can switch from the state (706) of FIG. 7d to the state (705). The state (705) of FIG. 7d can correspond to the state (705) of FIG. 7c. For example, in response to the input, the electronic device (100) can display a first execution screen reduced in size according to the size of the third part (r3) of the flexible display (140), and can display a second execution screen on the first part (r1) and the second part (r2).

[0134] As described above with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7D , the electronic device (100) may receive an input (e.g., an input based on a drag gesture) for allocating or mapping visual objects such as icons (e.g., visual objects corresponding to software applications) and portions of the flexible display (140). In response to the input, the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen related to the input together with the first execution screen that is being displayed at the time of receiving the input. For example, referring to FIGS. 7c to 7d, an electronic device (100) that receives an input for dragging an icon (711) to a first part (r1) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a first housing part (110) or a second part (r2) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a second housing part (120) may display a second execution screen on the first part (r1) and the second part (r2), and display a first execution screen having a reduced size according to the size of the third part (r3) on the third part (r3).

[0135] Referring to FIG. 7E, an exemplary state (707) of an electronic device (100) displaying two execution screens, such as the states (705) of FIGS. 7C to 7D, is illustrated. Within the state (707), the electronic device (100) may further receive an input for adding a third execution screen. The input may include a drag gesture for moving an icon (712) associated with the third execution screen (e.g., an icon (712) corresponding to a messenger application). Referring to FIG. 7E, exemplary paths (771, 772, 773) of a gesture for dragging an icon (712) are illustrated.

[0136] In a state (707) in which a first execution screen related to a web browser is displayed in a first portion (r1) and a second execution screen related to a video playback application is displayed in a second portion (r2) and a third portion (r3), an electronic device (100) that receives an input for dragging an icon (712) along a path (771) can switch to a state (707-1) of FIG. 7e. In response to an input for dragging an icon (712) along a path (772), the electronic device (100) can switch from a state (707) of FIG. 7e to a state (707-2). In response to an input for dragging an icon (712) along a path (773), the electronic device (100) can switch from a state (707) of FIG. 7e to a state (707-3).

[0137] Referring to states (707-1, 707-2, 707-3) of FIG. 7E, the electronic device (100) can display a first execution screen, a second execution screen, and a third execution screen having foldable portions of a flexible display (140) formed by hinge assemblies (e.g., a first hinge assembly (150) and / or a second hinge assembly (160)) as boundary lines. Since the boundary lines of the first execution screen, the second execution screen, and the third execution screen are positioned within the foldable portions, the wrinkles formed on the foldable portions can be prevented from distorting the contents of the first execution screen, the second execution screen, and the third execution screen.

[0138] In one embodiment, the order of the first execution screen, the second execution screen, and the third execution screen displayed within the flexible display (140) may be related to the input received within the state (707). For example, the order of the first execution screen, the second execution screen, and the third execution screen may be determined according to the end point of a drag gesture for moving the icon (712). Although exemplary states (707-1, 707-2, 707-3) in which the first execution screen, the second execution screen, and the third execution screen are displayed according to the layout of the PBP are described, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and as described below with reference to FIG. 11, the electronic device (100) may display the execution screens according to the layout of the PIP.

[0139] Referring to state (707-1) of FIG. 7E, the electronic device (100) that has received an input for moving an icon (712) to the third portion (r3) along the path (771) can display a third execution screen corresponding to the icon (712) in the third portion (r3). Within state (707-1), the electronic device (100) can display the first execution screen, which was displayed in the third portion (r3) before state (707-1), in the second portion (r2) located next to the third portion (r3). Within state (707-1), the electronic device (100) can display the second execution screen, which occupied the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2) before state (707-1), in the first portion (r1). For example, the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen that is reduced in size according to the size of the first part (r1).

[0140] Referring to state (707-2) of FIG. 7E, the electronic device (100) that has received an input for moving the icon (712) to the second portion (r2) along the path (772) can display a third execution screen corresponding to the icon (712) in the second portion (r2). Within state (707-2), the electronic device (100) can maintain displaying the first execution screen that was displayed in the third portion (r3) before state (707-2) in the third portion (r3). Within state (707-2), the electronic device (100) can display the second execution screen that occupied the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2) before state (707-1) in the first portion (r1).

[0141] Referring to state (707-3) of FIG. 7E, the electronic device (100) that has received an input for moving the icon (712) to the first portion (r1) along the path (773) can display a third execution screen on the first portion (r1). Within state (707-3), the electronic device (100) can maintain displaying the first execution screen that was displayed on the third portion (r3) before state (707-3) on the third portion (r3). Within state (707-3), the electronic device (100) can display the second execution screen that occupied the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2) before state (707-1) on the second portion (r2). For example, the electronic device (100) can display the second execution screen that is reduced in size according to the size of the second portion (r2).

[0142] Referring to an exemplary state (708) of FIG. 7F, the electronic device (100) may display a menu (780) including selectable options for the layout of a second execution screen to be displayed together with a first execution screen displayed on the flexible display (140). The electronic device (100) may switch to a state (708) displaying the menu (780) in response to a double-tap gesture on the icon (711). While the double-tap gesture is exemplified as an input for displaying the menu (780), the embodiment is not limited thereto. The menu (780) may be referred to as a guide menu.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 7F, through the menu (780), the electronic device (100) can display visual objects (781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786) corresponding to the options of the layout of the first execution screen and the first execution screen corresponding to the icon (711) displayed on the flexible display (140), respectively. The options can be distinguished according to the positions, sizes, and / or ratios between the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen. An exemplary state (708) of the electronic device (100) displaying visual objects (781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786) corresponding to six options is illustrated, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The electronic device (100) can provide some of the six options, or can further provide options different from the six options.

[0144] Each of the exemplary visual objects (781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786) of FIG. 7F may include a straight rectangle representing the shape of the flexible display (140) and dashed lines representing folding axes (e.g., a first folding axis (f1) and a second folding axis (f2)). Each of the exemplary visual objects (781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786) of FIG. 7F may include a shape (e.g., a rectangle filled with a specified color, represented by dots) representing the location of a second execution screen to be additionally displayed on the flexible display (140) by an input representing selection of a visual object. The shape, size, and / or position of the shape included in each of the visual objects (781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786) may indicate the shape, size, and / or position of the second execution screen to be displayed on the flexible display (140).

[0145] Within state (708) of FIG. 7f, in response to an input indicating selection of any one of the visual objects (781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786), the electronic device (100) may switch to another state that displays both the first execution screen and the second execution screen having a layout associated with (or mapped to) the visual object selected by the input.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 7g, in response to an input indicating selection of a visual object (781), the electronic device (100) may switch to a state (708-1). Within the state (708-1), the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen on the left half of the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) and may display a first execution screen on the right half of the display area. Within the state (708-1), the electronic device (100) may display the first execution screen and the second execution screen on portions that equally divide the flexible display (140), respectively.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 7g, in response to an input indicating selection of a visual object (782), the electronic device (100) may switch to a state (708-2). Within the state (708-2), the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen on the left half of the display area of ​​the flexible display (140) and may display a second execution screen on the right half of the display area. Within the state (708-2), similar to the state (708-1), the electronic device (100) may display the first execution screen and the second execution screen on portions that equally divide the flexible display (140), respectively.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 7g, within the visual objects (781, 782) corresponding to each of the states (708-1, 708-2), a rectangle representing a second execution screen may have a size half that of a rectangle representing a flexible display (140). Within the visual objects (781, 782), the positions of the rectangles representing the second execution screen may indicate positions of the second execution screen to be placed on the flexible display (140) in each of the states (708-1, 708-2).

[0149] Referring to FIG. 7g, in response to an input indicating selection of a visual object (783), the electronic device (100) may switch to a state (708-3). Within the state (708-3), the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen on a third portion (r3) of the flexible display (140), and may display a first execution screen on a combination of the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2) of the flexible display (140). Within the state (708-2), the ratio of the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be 2:1.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 7g, in response to an input indicating selection of a visual object (784), the electronic device (100) may switch to a state (708-4). Within the state (708-4), the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen on a first portion (r1) of the flexible display (140), and may display the first execution screen on a combination of the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3) of the flexible display (140). Within the state (708-4), the ratio of the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be 2:1, similar to the state (708-3).

[0151] Referring to FIG. 7g, within the visual objects (783, 784) corresponding to each of the states (708-3, 708-4), a rectangle representing a second execution screen may have a size that is 1 / 3 of a rectangle representing a flexible display (140). Within the visual objects (783, 784), the positions of the rectangles representing the second execution screen may indicate positions of the second execution screen to be placed on the flexible display (140) in each of the states (708-3, 708-4).

[0152] An electronic device (100) displaying a menu (780) of FIG. 7g may switch to a state (703) of FIG. 7b in response to an input indicating a selection of a visual object (785) within the menu (780). For example, the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen on a combination of the second part (r2) and the third part (r3) of the flexible display (140), and may display a first execution screen on the first part (r1). The electronic device (100) may switch to a state (705) of FIG. 7c and / or FIG. 7d in response to an input indicating a selection of a visual object (786) within the menu (780). For example, the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen on a combination of a first part (r1) and a second part (r2) of the flexible display (140), and can display a first execution screen on a third part (r3).

[0153] As described above, the electronic device (100) that receives an input related to a second execution screen of a software application of a specified attribute (e.g., the first attribute and / or the first specified category) may display a second execution screen that occupies at least two portions among the first portion (r1), the second portion (r2), and the third portion (r3). Together with the second execution screen that occupies the two portions, the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen that is reduced in size according to a single portion. The embodiment is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (100) that receives an input related to a third execution screen of a software application of another attribute (e.g., the second attribute and / or the second specified category) may display the second execution screen on any one portion among the first portion (r1) and the third portion (r3). Together with the second execution screen that occupies a single portion, the electronic device (100) may display the first execution screen on the entirety of the remaining two portions.

[0154] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 8A to 8C, an exemplary operation of an electronic device (100) that receives an input for displaying a third execution screen of the other properties is described.

[0155] FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C illustrate exemplary states (801, 802, 803, 804, 805) of an electronic device (100) displaying an execution screen according to an input for a visual object such as an icon (e.g., icons (711), 712, 713)). The electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and / or 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 8A to 8C. The operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 8A to 8C may be related to at least one of the operations of FIG. 6.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 8A, an exemplary state (801) of an electronic device (100) displaying a first execution screen provided from a video playback application on a flexible display (140) is illustrated. Within the state (801) included in the unfolded state, the electronic device (100) can display the first execution screen on the entire display area of ​​the unfolded flexible display (140). Within the state (801) displaying the first execution screen, the electronic device (100) can receive an input for further displaying a second execution screen. The input can be received through a visual object (710) that is displayed as an overlay on the first execution screen.

[0157] Through the visual object (710), the electronic device (100) can receive an input for changing, adding, and / or replacing the execution screen displayed on the flexible display (140). For example, the electronic device (100) that detects a tap gesture for an icon (712) can execute a software application based on the icon (712) and display a second execution screen provided from the executed software application on the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140). For example, the electronic device (100) that detects a double-tap gesture for the icon (712) can display a menu (e.g., the visual object (780) of FIG. 7f and / or FIG. 7g) that includes options for adjusting the layout of the second execution screen and the first execution screen.

[0158] The electronic device (100) may receive an input to move an icon (712) outside of a visual object (710). Referring to FIG. 8A, exemplary paths (811, 812, 813) of drag gestures performed to move the icon (712) are illustrated as examples of the input. The electronic device (100) that receives an input to drag the icon (712) along the path (811) may switch from the state (801) of FIG. 8A to the state (802) of FIG. 8B. The electronic device (100) that receives an input to drag the icon (712) along any one of the paths (812, 813) may switch from the state (801) of FIG. 8A to the state (804) of FIG. 8C. Based on the path of the icon (712) moved based on the above input (e.g., paths (811, 812, 813)), the electronic device (100) can determine the layout of the first execution screen and the second execution screen.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 8b, in a state (802) of receiving an input for dragging an icon (712) along a path (811), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (821) to guide the position and / or size of the second execution screen corresponding to the icon (712). Similar to the visual object (721) and / or the visual object (741) of FIG. 7b, the visual object (821) may be displayed to indicate the position and / or size of the second execution screen.

[0160] For example, when receiving an input for dragging an icon (712) for providing a second execution screen having a second property set to display an execution screen having a relatively small size, the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (821) indicating that any one of the portions (e.g., the first portion (r1), the second portion (r2), and the third portion (r3)) of the flexible display (140) distinguished by folding axes (e.g., the first folding axis (f1) and the second folding axis (f2)) is used to display the second execution screen. In the exemplary state (802) of FIG. 8B, the electronic device (100) that detects the icon (712) moved to the third part (r3) along the path (811) may display a visual object (821) having the shape and / or size of the third part (r3) within the third part (r3) among the parts of the flexible display (140).

[0161] Within the state (802) of FIG. 8B, if the input for dragging the icon (712) is interrupted at a point (p3) within the third portion (r3), the electronic device (100) may switch to the state (803). For example, in response to an input indicating moving the icon (712) to the third portion (r3), the electronic device (100) may switch from one of the states (801, 802) to the state (803). Referring to the exemplary state (803) of FIG. 8B, the electronic device (100) that has received the input for moving the icon (712) to the third portion (r3) may display a second execution screen on the third portion (r3) of the flexible display (140). Within the state (803), the electronic device (100) can display a first execution screen, which is reduced in size according to the combination of the first part (r1) and the second part (r2), in the first part (r1) and the second part (r2).

[0162] In state (803) of FIG. 8B, a boundary line between the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be positioned on the foldable portion of the flexible display (140) associated with the second folding axis (f2). Since the boundary line is positioned on the foldable portion, a crease formed on the foldable portion is not positioned on the inner side of the first execution screen and the second execution screen. For example, distortion of the content of the first execution screen and / or the second execution screen due to the crease may be prevented.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 8c, in a state (804) of receiving an input for dragging an icon (712) along one of the paths (812, 813), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (841) to guide the position and / or size of the second execution screen corresponding to the icon (712). The visual object (841) may have a shape and / or position that occupies the first portion (r1) among the three portions of the flexible display (140) distinguished by the foldable portions.

[0164] In the exemplary state (804) of FIG. 8C, if the input for dragging the icon (712) is interrupted at a point (p2) in the second portion (r2) and / or a point (p1) in the first portion (r1), the electronic device (100) may switch to a state (805). For example, based on an input for moving the icon (712) to either the second portion (r2) or the third portion (r3), the electronic device (100) may switch to a state (805) for displaying a second execution screen related to the icon (712) in the third portion (r3). For example, the electronic device (100) may display the second execution screen to the right of the first execution screen such that the second execution screen to be further displayed by the input is displayed at a location adjacent to the user's right hand (e.g., the right edge (140-r) of the flexible display (140).

[0165] In state (805) of FIG. 8c, a boundary line between the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be positioned on a foldable portion of the flexible display (140) positioned on the first hinge assembly (150). Since the boundary line is positioned on the foldable portion, contents of the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be separated from the folds formed on the foldable portion. For example, distortion of contents due to the folds may be prevented.

[0166] As described above, in response to an input to further display a second execution screen together with the first execution screen displayed on the flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) may determine a ratio of the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen by using the properties (or categories) of the first execution screen and / or the second execution screen. As described above with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7D , when further displaying a second execution screen having a first property (or first category) related to a software application such as a video playback application and / or an execution screen provided from the video playback application, the electronic device (100) may display the second execution screen in a size larger than the size of the first execution screen. As described above with reference to FIGS. 8A to 8C, when displaying a second execution screen having a second attribute (or second category) related to a software application such as a messenger application and / or an execution screen provided from the messenger application, the electronic device (100) may display the second execution screen in a size smaller than the size of the first execution screen.

[0167] For example, the ratio of the sizes of the execution screens displayed on the flexible display (140) may be related to the properties (or categories) of the execution screens. The embodiment is not limited thereto, and the ratio of the sizes of the execution screens may depend on a user's setting value (e.g., a setting value indicating whether to display the execution screen of the last launched (or executed) software application relatively large).

[0168] In one embodiment, the positions and / or order of the icons (711, 712, 713) within the visual object (710) may be related to the properties and / or categories of the execution screens corresponding to the icons (711, 712, 713), respectively. For example, within the visual object (710), icons included in a first property (or a first category) may be displayed adjacent to each other, and icons included in a second property (or a second category) may be displayed adjacent to each other.

[0169] Hereinafter, exemplary states of an electronic device (100) receiving an input for starting a multi-window are described with reference to FIG. 9a and / or FIG. 9b.

[0170] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate exemplary states (901, 902, 903, 904) of an electronic device (100) related to an input for additionally displaying an execution screen. The electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and / or 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 9A and / or 9B. The operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 9A and / or 9B may be related to at least one of the operations of FIG. 6.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 9A, an exemplary state (901) of an electronic device (100) displaying a first execution screen (e.g., an execution screen provided from a web browser) on a flexible display (140) is illustrated. Within the state (901), the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen having a size of the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140) on the flexible display (140). Within a state (901) included in an unfolded state, the electronic device (100) may display the first execution screen using the entire display area of ​​the flexible display (140). Within the exemplary state (901) of FIG. 9A, the electronic device (100) may display a handle (911) for adjusting the position, shape, and / or size of the first execution screen. The handle (911) may be referred to as a title bar and / or an indicator. A handle (911) is illustratively shown having a position adjacent to one edge (e.g., the top edge (140-t)) of the flexible display (140), but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0172] Within state (901) of FIG. 9A, the electronic device (100) may provide options related to multi-windows using the handle (911). For example, in response to an input indicating selection of the handle (911) (e.g., a tap gesture on the handle (911), the electronic device (100) may display a menu (912). The menu (912) may be displayed as an overlay on the handle (911) or may be displayed in place of the handle (911). The menu (912) may include designated text indicating the start of a multi-window, such as "Open in split screen." Embodiments are not limited thereto, and the menu (912) may include icons, images, and / or videos (e.g., animations) representing the multi-window.

[0173] While displaying the menu (912), in response to an input indicating selection of the menu (912) (e.g., a tap gesture on the menu (912), the electronic device (100) may switch to state (902) of FIG. 9A. While displaying the menu (912), in response to an input different from the above input (e.g., a touch gesture on a portion of the flexible display (140) other than the portion on which the menu (912) is displayed), the electronic device (100) may stop displaying the menu (912). When stopping displaying the menu (912), the electronic device (100) may resume displaying the handle (911).

[0174] Referring to FIG. 9A, within a state (902), the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen, scaled down to the size of a single portion, on one portion (e.g., the third portion (r3)) among the portions of the flexible display (140). Within a state (902), the electronic device (100) may display a list of executable software applications on the remaining two portions (e.g., a combination of the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2)) among the portions of the flexible display (140). In an exemplary state (902) of FIG. 9A, a list including icons representing software applications is illustrated, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. Through the list, an input may be received for selecting another execution screen to be displayed together with the first execution screen. For example, in response to a tap gesture for any one of the icons included in the list, the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen related to the icon corresponding to the tap gesture in the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2). Based on the display of the second execution screen, the display of the list in the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2) may be stopped.

[0175] For example, in response to an input received within the state (902) of FIG. 9A, the electronic device (100) may switch to another state (e.g., the state (705) of FIG. 7C and / or FIG. 7D) in which the ratio of the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen corresponds to 1:2. The ratio of the sizes may be related to an attribute and / or a category of the first execution screen. For example, in the state (901) displaying the first execution screen of the second attribute (or the second category), in response to an input for displaying a list (e.g., an input indicating selection of a menu (912)), the electronic device (100) may display the first execution screen, which is reduced in size according to the third portion (r3), in the third portion (r3), and display the list in the remaining portion.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 9B , an exemplary state (903) of an electronic device (100) displaying a first execution screen of a first property (e.g., an execution screen provided by a video playback application) on a flexible display (140) is illustrated. Within the state (903), the electronic device (100) may display a handle (931) for controlling the first execution screen. For example, similar to the handle (911) of FIG. 9A , the electronic device (100) may display the handle (931) at a location adjacent to the top edge (140-t). In response to an input indicating selection of the handle (931), the electronic device (100) may display a menu (932) including options related to multi-windows, similar to the menu (912) of FIG. 9A . In response to an input indicating selection of the menu (932), the electronic device (100) may switch from the state (903) to the state (904).

[0177] Referring to an exemplary state (904) of FIG. 9B , the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen, scaled down according to the size of two of the portions of the flexible display (140) (e.g., the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3)), on a combination of the portions. Together with the first execution screens displayed on the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3), the electronic device (100) may display a list of executable software applications. The list may be displayed on the first portion (r1) of the flexible display (140). Similar to the list displayed in the state (902) of FIG. 9A , the electronic device (100) may visualize the list using icons representing the software applications.

[0178] Within the state (904) of FIG. 9B , the electronic device (100) may receive an input for selecting a second execution screen to be displayed together with the first execution screen through a list. In response to the input, the electronic device (100) may maintain displaying the first execution screen in the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3), and may display the second execution screen in the first portion (r1). For example, according to the input received within the state (904) of FIG. 9B , the electronic device (100) may switch to another state (e.g., state (805) of FIG. 8C ) in which the ratio of the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen corresponds to 2:1.

[0179] As described above, according to one embodiment, when the electronic device (100) receives an input for displaying a second execution screen while displaying a first execution screen of a second category (or a second attribute), the electronic device (100) may display the second execution screen on a first part (r1) of a display area positioned on a first housing part (110) and a second part (r2) of a display area positioned on a second housing part (120), and may display the first execution screen on a third part (r3) of a display area defined by a foldable part of the display area corresponding to the second hinge assembly (160) and positioned on a third housing part (130). According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (100) receives an input for displaying a second execution screen while displaying a first execution screen of a first category (or a first attribute), the electronic device (100) may display the first execution screen in the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3) defined by the foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the first hinge assembly (150), and display the second execution screen in the first portion (r1).

[0180] The category of the first execution screen, including the first category and the second category, may be set by the resources of the software application that is executed to provide the first execution screen. For example, a tag (or flag) indicating the category may be stored in an XML (extended marked-up language) file named “manifest.xml.” The electronic device (100) may use the tag (or flag) to confirm or identify the category (or attribute) of the software application and / or the first execution screen. The embodiment is not limited thereto, and the electronic device (100) may use a list (e.g., a whitelist) containing the package names of software applications of the first category (or first attribute) to confirm or identify the category (or attribute) of the first execution screen displayed on the flexible display (140).

[0181] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 10a and / or FIG. 10b, exemplary states of an electronic device (100) receiving an input for further displaying a second execution screen together with a first execution screen displayed on a flexible display (140) are illustrated.

[0182] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate exemplary states (1001, 1002, 1004) of an electronic device (100) related to an input for additionally displaying an execution screen. The electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and / or 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 10A and / or 10B. The operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 10A and / or 10B may be related to at least one of the operations of FIG. 6.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 10A, an exemplary state (1001) of an electronic device (100) displaying a screen for switching between software applications and / or execution screens (e.g., a recents screen, an overview screen, a recents task list, and / or a recents app screen) is illustrated. A screen displayed across the entire display area of ​​a flexible display (140) within state (1001) may be referred to as a recents screen. The screen displayed within state (1001) may be mapped to a designated button (e.g., a recents button (1011)) of a navigation bar displayed along a lower edge (140-b) of the flexible display (140). For example, in response to an input indicating selection of the designated button, the electronic device (1000) may switch to state (1001) of FIG. 10A. The navigation bar may include a license button (1011), a home button (1012), and a back button (1013). The home button (1012) may be mapped to a home screen (or launcher screen). In response to an input indicating selection of the back button (1013), the electronic device (100) may be configured to re-display the execution screens that were sequentially displayed on the flexible display (140).

[0184] In the exemplary state (1001) of FIG. 10A, the electronic device (100) may display each of the images representing the execution screens displayed on the flexible display (140) (or cover display) together with an icon of a software application corresponding to the execution screen. For example, the electronic device (100) may display an image (e.g., a screenshot and / or snapshot) (1015) representing an execution screen displayed by executing a video playback application and an icon (1014) representing the video playback application. For example, the electronic device (100) may display an image (1017) representing an execution screen displayed by executing a messenger application and an icon (1016) representing the messenger application. A first combination of image (1015) and icon (1014) and a second combination of image (1017) and icon (1017) can be scrolled along the horizontal axis of the flexible display (140) by a user input such as a swipe gesture.

[0185] Within state (1001) of FIG. 10A, the electronic device (100) may display a menu (1018) in response to an input indicating selection of an icon (1014). The menu (1018) may be displayed as an overlay on the icon (1014). The menu (1018) may include an option for displaying information of the video application (e.g., an option including text such as “Application Information”), an option for starting a multi-window based on PBP (e.g., an option including text such as “Open in Split Screen”), and / or an option for starting a multi-window based on PIP (e.g., an option including text such as “View in Pop-up Screen”).

[0186] Referring to FIG. 10A, within a menu (1018), a visual object (1019) may be displayed indicating an option to start a multi-window based on PBP. In response to an input indicating selection of the visual object (1019), the electronic device (100) may switch from a state (1001) to a state (1002). Within the state (1002), the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen based on a size of a combination of two portions of the flexible display (140) (e.g., a second portion (r2) and a third portion (r3)). The first execution screen may correspond to a video playback application corresponding to the icon (1014). The first execution screen of the first category (or first attribute) may occupy two portions (e.g., the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3)) adjacent to the left edge (140-l) of the flexible display (140).

[0187] Referring to the state (1002) of FIG. 10A, similarly to the state (904) of FIG. 9B, the electronic device (100) may display a screen for determining a software application to be displayed through the first part (r1) in the first part (r1). The screen displayed in the first part (r1) may display the license screen that was displayed in the state (1001). In the state (1002) in which the license screen, which is reduced according to the size of the first part (r1), is displayed, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for selecting a second execution screen to be displayed together with the first execution screen through the license screen. In response to the input, the electronic device (100) may maintain displaying the first execution screen in the second part (r2) and the third part (r3), and may display the second execution screen in the first part (r1). For example, in response to an input received within state (1002) of FIG. 10a, the electronic device (100) may switch to another state (e.g., state (805) of FIG. 8c) in which the ratio of the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen corresponds to 2:1.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 10b, in a state (1001) of displaying a license screen on the entire display area of ​​a flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) may display a menu (1018) in response to an input indicating selection of an icon (1016). The menu (1018) may be displayed as an overlay on the icon (1016). In the menu (1018), in response to an input indicating selection of a visual object (1019) corresponding to an option for displaying a multi-window based on PBP, the electronic device (100) may switch to a state (1004) of FIG. 10b.

[0189] Referring to an exemplary state (1004) of FIG. 10b, if a first execution screen (e.g., an execution screen provided from a messenger application) corresponding to an icon (1016) is included in a second category (or second attribute) related to a relatively small-sized execution screen, the electronic device (100) may display the first execution screen on a single portion (e.g., a third portion (r3)) among the portions of the flexible display (140), as in the state (1004).

[0190] Within the state (1004) of FIG. 10b, similar to the state (902) of FIG. 9a, the electronic device (100) may display a screen for selecting a software application to be displayed through a combination of the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2). For example, the electronic device (100) may display a license screen that is reduced in size according to the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2). Within the state (1004) of FIG. 10b, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for selecting a second execution screen through the license screen. For example, within the state (1004), in response to an input indicating selection of an icon (1014) representing a video playback application, the electronic device (100) may switch to a state for displaying a second execution screen provided from the video playback application together with the first execution screen displayed in the third portion (r3). For example, the second execution screen may be displayed in the remaining portion of the display area that is different from the third portion (r3) (e.g., a combination of the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2)).

[0191] As described above, the electronic device (100) can sequentially receive inputs for selecting execution screens to be simultaneously displayed on the flexible display (140) through the license screen. The electronic device (100) can use the properties (or categories) of the execution screens to set the sizes of the execution screens unequally. For example, the sizes of the execution screens can be set such that the boundary lines of the execution screens are positioned on the folds of the flexible display (140) formed by the motion of the hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (150) and / or the second hinge assembly (160)). For example, the electronic device (100) can determine or change the sizes of the execution screens in order to reduce the visibility of the boundary line or prevent distortion of the contents of the execution screens by the boundary line.

[0192] Below, with reference to FIG. 11, exemplary states of an electronic device (100) displaying execution screens having a layout based on PIP are illustrated.

[0193] FIG. 11 illustrates exemplary states of an electronic device (100) related to input to foldable portions (fp1, fp2) of a flexible display (140). The electronic device (100) of FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and / or FIG. 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operation of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIG. 11.

[0194] Referring to FIG. 11, a state (1101) of an electronic device (100) displaying multiple execution screens (e.g., a first execution screen based on execution of a web browser and a second execution screen based on execution of a video playback application) is illustrated. The state (1101) of FIG. 11 may correspond to the state (705) of FIG. 7B and / or FIG. 7C. Within the state (1101), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (710). As described above with reference to FIG. 7A, in response to a designated input for displaying the visual object (710), the electronic device (100) may display the visual object (710). The visual object (710) may include icons (711, 712, 713) representing software applications, respectively.

[0195] Referring to FIG. 11, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for adding an additional execution screen to be displayed on the flexible display (140) through a visual object (710). In an exemplary state (1001) in which a first execution screen is displayed on a third portion (r3) and a second execution screen is displayed on a combination of the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2), the electronic device (100) may receive an input for further displaying a third execution screen corresponding to an icon (712). Referring to FIG. 11, exemplary paths (1111, 1121) of a gesture for dragging an icon (712) are illustrated as an example of the input. The electronic device (100) that receives an input for dragging an icon (712) along the path (1111) may switch from the state (1101) to the state (1102). An electronic device (100) that receives an input to drag an icon (712) along a path (1112) can switch from state (1101) to state (1103).

[0196] For example, an electronic device (100) that receives an input to move an icon (712) to a first foldable portion (fp1) formed on a first hinge assembly (150) along a path (1111) may switch to a state (1102). Within the state (1102), the electronic device (100) may display a third execution screen (1121) that at least partially overlaps the first foldable portion (fp1) and is related to the icon (712). While receiving the input, the electronic device (100) may display a visual affordance to guide the position, shape, and / or size of the third execution screen (1121), such as the visual object (721) of FIG. 7b, the visual object (741) of FIG. 7c and / or FIG. 7d.

[0197] For example, an electronic device (100) that receives an input to move an icon (712) to a second foldable portion (fp2) formed on a second hinge assembly (160) along a path (1112) may switch to a state (1103). Within the state (1103), the electronic device (100) may display a third execution screen (1121) that at least partially overlaps the second foldable portion (fp2) and is related to the icon (712).

[0198] Although the operation of the electronic device (100) that receives an input for moving an icon (712) to the foldable portions (fp1, fp2) has been described, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Within the state (1101) of FIG. 11, the electronic device (100) that detects an input for moving an icon (712) to another portion of the flexible display (140) different from the foldable portions (fp1, fp2) may display three execution screens having a layout based on PBP, as described above with reference to FIG. 7E.

[0199] In one embodiment, when switching to a state (1103) that further displays a third execution screen while playing a video through a second execution screen associated with a video playback application, the electronic device (100) may at least temporarily suspend the video being played through the second execution screen. After the video playback is at least temporarily suspended, the electronic device (100) may resume playing the video in response to an input related to the second execution screen (e.g., a tap gesture on the second execution screen). The input related to the second execution screen may include an input for focusing on the second execution screen. The embodiment is not limited thereto, and when switching to a state (1103) that further displays a third execution screen while playing audio, such as music, the electronic device (100) may at least temporarily suspend playing the audio.

[0200] Hereinafter, an exemplary operation of an electronic device (100) that receives an input for changing the layout of execution screens simultaneously displayed on a flexible display (140) is described using FIGS. 12a to 12c.

[0201] FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C illustrate exemplary states (1201, 1202, 1203, 1204, 1205) of an electronic device (100) that changes the layout of execution screens in response to an input to a visual object, such as a handle (e.g., handles (1211, 1212, 1231, 1232, 1251, 1252)). The electronic device (100) of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and / or 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIGS. 12A to 12C.

[0202] Referring to FIG. 12A, an exemplary state (1201) of an electronic device (100) displaying a first execution screen provided from a web browser and a second execution screen provided from a video playback application on a flexible display (140) is illustrated. The state (1201) of FIG. 12A may correspond to the state (705) of FIG. 7B and / or FIG. 7C. Within the state (1201) of FIG. 12A, the electronic device (100) may display handles (1211, 1212) on execution screens displayed on different parts of the flexible display (140), respectively. Using the handles (1211, 1212), the electronic device (100) may switch to a mode for changing the layout of the execution screens displayed on the flexible display (140). For example, based on a drag gesture for at least one of the handles (1211, 1212), the electronic device (100) can change the positions and / or sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen.

[0203] Within an exemplary state (1201) of FIG. 12A, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for changing the position and / or size of the first execution screen by using a handle (1211) of the first execution screen located on the third part (r3) of the flexible display (140) located on the third housing part (130). Referring to FIG. 12A, exemplary paths (1218, 1219) of drag gestures detected by the electronic device (100) as the input are illustrated. For example, the electronic device (100) detecting a drag gesture performed along the path (1218) may switch from the state (1201) of FIG. 12A to the state (1202) of FIG. 12B. For example, an electronic device (100) that detects a drag gesture performed along a path (1219) may switch from state (1201) of FIG. 12a to state (1204) of FIG. 12c.

[0204] Referring to FIG. 12B, an exemplary state (1202) of an electronic device (100) is illustrated, wherein an input is received to move a handle (1211) to a second portion (r2) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a second housing part (120) along a path (1218). Within the state (1202), the electronic device (100) may display a visual object (1221) to guide that a first execution screen corresponding to the handle (1211) is displayed on the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2) of the flexible display (140) by the input. The visual object (1221) may display a visual affordance to guide the position, shape, and / or size of the first execution screen, similar to the visual object (721) of FIG. 7B, the visual object (741) of FIG. 7C and / or FIG. 7D.

[0205] In state (1202) of FIG. 12B, when the input for dragging the handle (1211) is stopped at point (p2) in the second part (r2), the electronic device (100) may switch to state (1203). In state (1203), the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen enlarged according to the size of the combination of the first part (r1) and the second part (r2) of the flexible display (140). In state (1203), the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen reduced according to the size of the third part (r3) of the flexible display (140). Similar to state (1201) of FIG. 12A, the electronic device (100) may display a handle (1231) associated with an enlarged first execution screen and a handle (1232) associated with a reduced second execution screen. For example, in response to an input of moving the handle (1211) of the first execution screen, which has a relatively small size, to the second portion (r2), the electronic device (100) may change the position and size of the first execution screen.

[0206] Referring to FIG. 12c, an exemplary state (1204) of an electronic device (100) is illustrated, which receives an input for moving a handle (1211) to a first portion (r1) of a flexible display (140) positioned on a first housing part (110) along a path (1219). Within the state (1204), a visual object (1241) may be displayed to guide that a first execution screen corresponding to the handle (1211) is displayed on the first portion (r1). The visual object (1241) may be displayed to guide the position, shape, and / or size of the first execution screen, similar to the visual object (1221) of FIG. 12b.

[0207] Within the state (1204) of FIG. 12c, when the input for dragging the handle (1211) is stopped at the point (p1) in the first part (r1), the electronic device (100) can switch to the state (1205). Within the state (1205), the electronic device (100) can display a first execution screen on the first part (r1) of the flexible display (140). Within the state (1205), the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen on the combination of the second part (r2) and the third part (r3) of the flexible display (140). Referring to the state (1201) of FIG. 12a and the state (1205) of FIG. 12c, the electronic device (100) can swap the positions where the first execution screen and the second execution screen are displayed. While switching from state (1201) of FIG. 12a to state (1205) of FIG. 12c, the size of the first execution screen and the size of the second execution screen can be maintained. After switching to state (1205), the electronic device (100) can display a handle (1251) corresponding to the first execution screen as an overlay on the first execution screen, and can display a handle (1252) corresponding to the second execution screen as an overlay on the second execution screen.

[0208] Although the operation of the electronic device (100) in relation to the handle (1311) of the first execution screen having a relatively small size has been described, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, based on an input to the handle (1312) of the second execution screen having a relatively large size, the electronic device (100) may change the layout of the execution screens displayed on the flexible display (140).

[0209] FIG. 13 illustrates exemplary states (1301, 1302, 1304) of an electronic device that changes the layout of execution screens in response to input to visual objects such as handles (e.g., handles (1311, 1312, 1341, 1342)). The electronic device (100) of FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and / or FIG. 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operations of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIG. 13.

[0210] Referring to FIG. 13, an exemplary state (1301) of an electronic device (100) displaying a first execution screen provided from a video playback application and a second execution screen provided from a web browser on a flexible display (140) is illustrated. The electronic device (100) may display a handle (1311) configured to receive an input for controlling the first execution screen, overlaid on the first execution screen. The electronic device (100) may display a handle (1312) configured to receive an input for controlling the second execution screen, overlaid on the second execution screen. In response to a drag gesture for at least one of the handles (1311, 1312), the electronic device (100) may change the positions and / or sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen.

[0211] Within the exemplary state (1301) of FIG. 13, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for changing the position and / or size of the first execution screen by using the handle (1311) of the first execution screen that occupies the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3) of the flexible display (140). The input may include drag gestures for moving the handle (1311) along paths (1318, 1319). The electronic device (100) that detects the drag gesture performed along the path (1318) may switch from the state (1301) of FIG. 13 to the state (1302). The electronic device (100) that detects the drag gesture performed along the path (1319) may switch from the state (1301) of FIG. 13 to the state (1304).

[0212] Referring to FIG. 13, within a state (1302), the electronic device (100) can change the location at which the first execution screen is displayed from a combination of the second part (r2) and the third part (r3) to a combination of the first part (r1) and the second part (r2). Within a state (1302), the electronic device (100) can display the second execution screen, which was displayed on the first part (r1) within the state (1301) prior to the state (1302), on the third part (r3). The electronic device (100), which receives an input for moving the first execution screen to the second part (r2) along a path (1308), can swap the locations of the first execution screen and the second execution screen while maintaining the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen.

[0213] Referring to FIG. 13, within a state (1304), the electronic device (100) can display a first execution screen in a reduced size according to the size of the first part (r1). Within a state (1304), the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen enlarged according to the size of the combination of the second part (r2) and the third part (r3). The electronic device (100) can display a handle (1341) as an overlay on the first execution screen, and can display a handle (1342) as an overlay on the second execution screen.

[0214] Referring to FIGS. 12A to 12C and FIG. 13 , the electronic device (100) that receives an input for moving a handle (e.g., the handle 1211 of FIG. 12A and / or the handle 1311 of FIG. 13 ) to the second portion (r2) may determine whether to change the size of the execution screen according to the size of the execution screen corresponding to the handle. As described above with reference to FIG. 12A , based on an input for moving a handle (e.g., the handle 1211 of FIG. 12A ) of an execution screen having a relatively small size (e.g., a first execution screen having the size of the first portion (r3)) to the second portion (r2), the electronic device (100) may change the position of the execution screen and enlarge the size of the execution screen. As described above with reference to FIG. 13, based on an input of moving a handle (e.g., handle (1311) of FIG. 13) of an execution screen having a relatively large size (e.g., a first execution screen having a size of a combination of the second portion (r2) and the third portion (r3)) to the second portion (r2), the electronic device (100) can change the position of the execution screen and maintain the size of the execution screen.

[0215] Although the operation of the electronic device (100) in response to an input for moving the handle of the execution screen located on the left among the two execution screens (e.g., the handle (1211) of FIG. 12A and / or the handle (1311) of FIG. 13) has been described, the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (100) that receives an input for moving the handle of the execution screen located on the right among the two execution screens (e.g., the handle (1212) of FIG. 12A and / or the handle (1312) of FIG. 13) may change the layout of the execution screens similarly to the operation described above with reference to FIGS. 12A to 12C and / or FIG. 13.

[0216] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 14, an exemplary operation of the electronic device (100) for changing the layout of execution screens displayed on the flexible display (140) according to the rotation of the electronic device (100) is described.

[0217] FIG. 14 illustrates exemplary states (1401, 1402, 1403) of an electronic device (100) that change the layout of execution screens according to the rotation of the electronic device (100). The electronic device (100) of FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and / or FIG. 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5 may perform the operation of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIG. 14.

[0218] Referring to FIG. 14, an exemplary state (1401) of an electronic device (100) displaying a first execution screen corresponding to a web browser and a second execution screen corresponding to a video playback application on a flexible display (140) is illustrated. The first execution screen may be displayed on a third portion (r3) on a third housing part (130), and the second execution screen may be displayed on a first portion (r1) on a first housing part (110) and a second portion (r2) on a second housing part (120).

[0219] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can detect or measure the direction and / or orientation of the electronic device (100) using a sensor (e.g., sensor (530) of FIG. 5). The direction and / or orientation of the electronic device (100) can be determined based on the direction of gravitational acceleration applied to the electronic device (100). Depending on the direction and / or orientation of the electronic device (100), the mode in which the execution screen is displayed on the flexible display (140) can be changed.

[0220] The above mode may include designated modes, referred to as portrait mode and landscape mode. In one embodiment including a flexible display (140) having a width greater than its height, the landscape mode may include a state in which the gravitational acceleration applied to the electronic device (100) is perpendicular to the width, and may be set to display strings along the direction of the width. In one embodiment including a flexible display (140) having a width greater than its height, the portrait mode may include a state in which the gravitational acceleration applied to the electronic device (100) is parallel to the width, and may be set to display strings along the direction of the height. For example, within the state (1401) of FIG. 14, the electronic device (100) may display execution screens based on the landscape mode.

[0221] Referring to FIG. 14, as the electronic device (100) is physically rotated, the mode of the electronic device (100) may be switched from landscape mode (e.g., state (1401)) to portrait mode (e.g., states (1402, 1403)). The electronic device (100) may use a sensor (e.g., the IMU (532) and / or a gravity sensor of FIG. 5) to determine a mode corresponding to the electronic device (100) among landscape mode and portrait mode. In state (1401) of FIG. 14, when the electronic device (100) is rotated 90º clockwise by a user, the electronic device (100) may switch to state (1402) within the portrait mode. In state (1401) of FIG. 14, when the electronic device (100) is rotated 90º counterclockwise by the user, the electronic device (100) can switch to state (1403) in portrait mode.

[0222] When switching from landscape mode to portrait mode, the electronic device (100) can determine the positions and / or sizes of execution screens according to the positions of the foldable portions of the flexible display (140). In the exemplary state (1402) of FIG. 14, the electronic device (100) can display a first execution screen of the portrait mode on the third portion (r3) of the flexible display (140) positioned on the third housing part (130). In the state (1402), the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen of the portrait mode on a combination of the first portion (r1) of the flexible display (140) positioned on the first housing part (110) and the second portion (r2) of the flexible display (140) positioned on the second housing part (120). When switching from state (1401) to state (1402) of FIG. 14, the mapping of housing parts and execution screens can be maintained.

[0223] Within the exemplary state (1403) of FIG. 14, the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen in portrait mode in a combination of the first part (r1) and the second part (r2), and can display a first execution screen in portrait mode in the third part (r3). When switching from the state (1401) of FIG. 14 to the state (1403), the electronic device (100) can change the orientations of the contents of the execution screens and / or rotate the contents while maintaining the mapping of the housing parts and the execution screens.

[0224] Referring to states (1402, 1403) of FIG. 14, the boundary line of the execution screens can be formed on one of the foldable portions. Since the crease included in the foldable portion is positioned on the boundary line, distortion of the contents of the execution screens caused by the crease can be reduced or prevented.

[0225] In one embodiment, when switching from landscape mode to portrait mode, the electronic device (100) may change the sizes of the execution screens displayed on the flexible display (140) to equivalent sizes. For example, after switching to portrait mode, the electronic device (100) may display execution screens that equally occupy the flexible display (140).

[0226] FIG. 15 illustrates exemplary states (1501, 1502, 1503) of an electronic device (100) that change the layout of execution screens according to an input for a visual object, such as an icon (e.g., icons (711, 712, 713)). The electronic device (100) of FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and / or FIG. 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operation of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIG. 15.

[0227] Referring to FIG. 15, a state (1501) of an electronic device (100) that displays a first execution screen based on the execution of a web browser in the entire display area of ​​a flexible display (140) is illustrated. The state (1501) of FIG. 15 may be related to the state (701) of FIG. 7A. Referring to FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for selecting an execution screen to be additionally displayed on the flexible display (140) through a visual object (710). For example, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for further displaying a second execution screen related to an icon (712) based on an icon (712). Referring to FIG. 15, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may receive an input for sequentially arranging execution screens along a vertical direction on the flexible display (140).

[0228] For example, the electronic device (100) that detects a drag gesture for moving an icon (712) can determine the layout of execution screens using the coordinates of the end point of the drag gesture (e.g., the y-coordinate of the end point). For example, if the end point of the drag gesture is included in a portion between the first reference line (1511) within the flexible display (140) and the upper edge (140-t) of the flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) can display a second execution screen corresponding to the icon (712) on the half of the flexible display (140) adjacent to the upper edge (140-t), and display a first execution screen below the second execution screen on the flexible display (140). The first reference line (1511) may be positioned at a portion spaced apart from the upper edge (140-t) by 1 / 3 of the height of the flexible display (140) along the height direction of the flexible display (140).

[0229] For example, within the state (1501) of FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) that receives a drag gesture for moving an icon (712) along a path (1517) may switch to the state (1502) because the end point of the drag gesture is located between the first reference line (1511) and the top edge (140-t) of the flexible display (140). Within the exemplary state (1502) of FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen corresponding to the icon (712) in the top half adjacent to the top edge (140-t) and may display a first execution screen in the bottom half adjacent to the bottom edge (140-b). While receiving the drag gesture for moving the icon (712) along the path (1517), the electronic device (100) may display a visual affordance to guide displaying the second execution screen in the top half.

[0230] For example, if the end point of the drag gesture is included in a portion between the second reference line (1512) and the lower edge (140-b) within the flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen corresponding to the icon (712) on a half of the flexible display (140) adjacent to the lower edge (140-b), and may display a first execution screen above the second execution screen on the flexible display (140). The second reference line (1512) may be positioned at a portion spaced apart from the upper edge (140-t) by 2 / 3 of the height of the flexible display (140) along the height direction. The first reference line (1511) and the second reference line (1512) are virtual lines illustrated for convenience of explanation, and the electronic device (100) can determine the layout of execution screens by comparing the y-coordinate of the first reference line (1511) and / or the y-coordinate of the second reference line (1512) with the y-coordinate of the end point of the drag gesture.

[0231] For example, within the state (1501) of FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) that receives a drag gesture for moving an icon (712) along a path (1519) may switch to the state (1503) because the end point of the drag gesture is located between the second reference line (1512) and the bottom edge (140-b) of the flexible display (140). Within the exemplary state (1503) of FIG. 15, the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen corresponding to the icon (712) in the lower half adjacent to the bottom edge (140-b) and may display a first execution screen in the upper half adjacent to the top edge (140-t). While receiving the drag gesture for moving the icon (712) along the path (1519), the electronic device (100) may display a visual affordance indicating that the second execution screen is displayed in the lower half.

[0232] For example, if the end point of the drag gesture is included in a portion between the first reference line (1511) and the second reference line (1512) within the flexible display (140), the electronic device (100) can determine the layout of the execution screens similarly to the input related to the icon (712) described with reference to FIGS. 8A to 8C . For example, the electronic device (100) that detects a drag gesture that moves the icon (712) along the path (1518) can determine the layout of the execution screens such that the first execution screen and the second execution screen are unevenly allocated to the first portion (r1), the second portion (r2), and the third portion (r3) because the end point of the drag gesture is located within the second portion (r2) between the first reference line (1511) and the second reference line (1512).

[0233] For example, if a second execution screen to be displayed by a drag gesture for moving an icon (712) along a path (1518) is set to be displayed in a relatively larger size than the first execution screen that is being displayed when the drag gesture is received, the electronic device (100) may display the second execution screen in a combination of the first part (r1) and the second part (r2), and display the first execution screen in the third part (r3). While receiving the drag gesture, the electronic device (100) may display a visual affordance indicating the position, shape, and / or size of the second execution screen as an overlay on the first execution screen.

[0234] FIG. 16 illustrates exemplary states of an electronic device (100) including a cover display (170) and a flexible display (140). The electronic device (100) of FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and / or FIG. 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operation of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIG. 16.

[0235] Referring to FIG. 16, an exemplary state (1601) of an electronic device (100) included in a folded state is illustrated. Within the folded state, the electronic device (100) may display multiple execution screens based on a multi-window on the cover display (170). For example, the electronic device (100) may display a first execution screen on the upper half of the cover display (170) and a second execution screen on the lower half of the cover display (170). The sizes of portions of the cover display (170) occupied by the execution screens may be the same.

[0236] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) can detect or determine whether the state and / or shape of the electronic device (100) changes using a sensor (e.g., sensor (530) of FIG. 5). Referring to FIG. 16, from a folded state including a state (1601), when a user unfolds the electronic device (100), the state of the electronic device (100) can be switched to an unfolded state. Referring to FIG. 16, within a state (1602) within the unfolded state switched from the state (1601), the electronic device (100) can continuously display execution screens that were displayed through the cover display (170) on the flexible display (140). The execution screens that were displayed on the cover display (170) can be rearranged or updated based on the size of the flexible display (140).

[0237] In one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may determine the sizes of the execution screens to be displayed on the flexible display (140) by using the properties (or categories) of the execution screens. For example, when switching from a state (1601) in which a first execution screen based on a web browser and a second execution screen based on a video playback application are displayed on the cover display (170) to a state (1602), the electronic device (100) may check the property (or category) of at least one of the first execution screen and the second execution screen. Since the second execution screen based on the video playback application has the first property and the first execution screen based on the web browser has the second property, the electronic device (100) may determine that the second execution screen has a larger size than the first execution screen on the flexible display (140).

[0238] Referring to FIG. 16, in a state (1602), the electronic device (100) may display a second execution screen through two portions (e.g., the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2)) of the flexible display (140), and may display a first execution screen through one portion (e.g., the third portion (r3)), among portions (e.g., the first portion (r1) and the second portion (r2)) of the flexible display (140) that are distinguished by foldable portions of the flexible display (140) positioned on the hinge assemblies (e.g., the first hinge assembly (150) and / or the second hinge assembly (160)). For example, the ratio of the sizes of the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be 1:2. The boundary lines of the first execution screen and the second execution screen may be positioned on the foldable portion of the flexible display (140) formed by the second hinge assembly (160). For example, since the boundary lines are formed along the folds formed on the foldable portion, the user can view the contents of the first execution screen and the second execution screen without distortion of the contents due to the folds.

[0239] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary state of an electronic device (100) displaying an execution screen having a layout based on a foldable portion of a flexible display (140). The electronic device (100) of FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and / or FIG. 5, and / or the processor (510) of FIG. 5, may perform the operation of the electronic device (100) described with reference to FIG. 17.

[0240] Referring to FIG. 17, an exemplary state (1701) of an electronic device (100) displaying an execution screen having a layout based on the shape and / or size of a flexible display (140) is illustrated. The execution screen displayed within the state (1701) may be provided by one (a) software application executed by the electronic device (100). The mode of the electronic device (100) for displaying the execution screen having a layout based on the size of the flexible display (140) may include a tablet mode and / or a landscape mode.

[0241] Within the exemplary state (1701) of FIG. 17, the electronic device (100) may display an execution screen including fragment areas (1711, 1712). Through the first fragment area (1711), the electronic device (100) may display content corresponding to items (e.g., menu options) displayed in the second fragment area (1712). The first fragment area (1711) may be referred to as a content area, and the second fragment area (1712) may be referred to as a menu area (or list area, navigation area). Together with the fragment areas (1711, 1712), the electronic device (100) may display a navigation bar (1713). An exemplary state (1701) is shown displaying a navigation bar (1713) adjacent to the lower edge (140-b) of the flexible display (140), but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0242] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (100) displays an execution screen including fragment areas (1711, 1712), the electronic device (100) may determine or change the sizes, positions, and / or shapes of the fragment areas (1711, 1712) such that a boundary line between the fragment areas (1711, 1712) is located on one of the foldable portions of the flexible display (140) positioned on the folding axes (e.g., the first folding axis (f1) and the second folding axis (f2)).

[0243] Referring to an exemplary state (1701) of FIG. 17, the electronic device (100) can display fragment areas (1711, 1712) that are in contact with the foldable portion positioned on the second folding axis (f2). For example, the boundary lines of the fragment areas (1711, 1712) can be formed along a crease formed on the flexible display (140) based on the second folding axis (f2). Since the boundary line parallel to the crease is positioned on the crease, the contents included in each of the fragment areas (1711, 1712) may not be distorted or bent by the crease.

[0244] As described above, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may display one or more execution screens having a layout based on a plurality of folds formed on the flexible display (140). For example, when displaying a plurality of execution screens, the electronic device (100) may determine the layout of the plurality of execution screens such that a boundary line between the execution screens is located on one of the plurality of folds. For example, when displaying a execution screen including a plurality of areas (e.g., fragment areas (1711, 1712)), the electronic device (100) may determine dimensions (e.g., position, width, height, shape, size, and / or aspect ratio) of the plurality of areas such that a boundary line between the plurality of areas is located on one of the plurality of folds.

[0245] In one embodiment, a method may be required to display an execution screen based on the shape of foldable portions (e.g., folded portions) of a flexible display formed by the folding axes on a flexible display positioned in a multi-foldable housing including two or more folding axes. According to one embodiment of the present invention, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (100) of FIG. 5) as described above comprises a housing including a first housing part (e.g., the first housing part (110) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B), a second housing part (e.g., the second housing part (120) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B) rotatably coupled with the first housing part, and a third housing part (e.g., the third housing part (130) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B) rotatably coupled with the second housing part, a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (140) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B) disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part, a memory (e.g., the memory (520) of FIG. 5) including one or more storage media for storing instructions), and at least one processor including a processing circuit (e.g., the memory (520) of FIG. 5) The flexible display may include a processor (510) of 5. The at least one processor may be configured to display a first execution screen on the flexible display. The at least one processor may be configured to display the second execution screen on the first part and the second part based on receiving the input for dragging the icon (e.g., icons (711, 712, 713) of FIG. 7A) to a first part of the flexible display positioned on the first housing part (e.g., the first part (r1) of FIG. 4A) or a second part of the flexible display positioned on the second housing part (e.g., the second part (r2) of FIG. 4A).The at least one processor may be configured to display the first execution screen, which is reduced in size according to the size of the third portion (e.g., the third portion (r3) of FIG. 4A) of the flexible display positioned on the third housing part. The at least one processor may be configured to display the first execution screen, which is reduced in size according to the size of the first portion, on the first portion based on receiving the input for dragging the icon to the third portion of the flexible display. The at least one processor may be configured to display the second execution screen on the second portion and the third portion. According to one embodiment, the electronic device may display, on a flexible display positioned in a multi-foldable housing including two or more folding axes, an execution screen based on the shape of the foldable portions of the flexible display formed by the folding axes.

[0246] In one embodiment, an electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part, a flexible display disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part, a memory including one or more storage media storing instructions, and at least one processor including a processing circuit. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display a first execution screen associated with a first application on the flexible display. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display at least one icon associated with at least one application on an area of ​​the flexible display. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to receive an input for moving the at least one icon to a defined portion of the flexible display. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to, based on receiving the input, display a second execution screen associated with the at least one application in the defined portion of the flexible display and display the first execution screen associated with the first application by moving it to the left or right of the second execution screen.

[0247] For example, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen based on receiving the input while the state of the housing corresponds to an unfolded state.

[0248] For example, the electronic device may include a first sensor configured to detect a first angle between the first housing part and the second housing part, and a second sensor configured to detect a second angle between the second housing part and the third housing part. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to determine, in response to detecting the first angle and the second angle, that are within a specified angular range including 180°, that the state of the housing corresponds to the unfolded state.

[0249] For example, the housing may include a first hinge assembly (e.g., the first hinge assembly (150) of FIGS. 4A and / or 4B) that rotatably couples the first housing part and the second housing part, and a second hinge assembly (e.g., the second hinge assembly (160) of FIGS. 4A and / or 4B) that rotatably couples the second housing part and the third housing part. The first portion of the flexible display positioned on the first housing part may be distinguished from the remainder of the flexible display by a first foldable portion of the flexible display corresponding to the first hinge assembly. The third portion of the flexible display positioned on the third housing part may be distinguished from the remainder of the flexible display by a second foldable portion of the flexible display corresponding to the second hinge assembly.

[0250] For example, the defined region may include a boundary positioned on the second hinge assembly and parallel to the direction in which the second hinge assembly extends. The defined region may include a boundary positioned on the first hinge assembly and parallel to the direction in which the first hinge assembly extends.

[0251] For example, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display a second execution screen occupying at least two of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion based on receiving the input related to the second execution screen of a software application included in a designated category.

[0252] For example, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen in one of the first portion and the third portion based on receiving another input related to a third execution screen of a software application of a different category than the designated category. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen in the entirety of the remaining portion of the first portion and the third portion, which is different from the portion in which the second execution screen is displayed.

[0253] For example, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen occupying at least two of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion based on receiving the input within a landscape mode defined by an orientation of the electronic device.

[0254] For example, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to determine whether a mode of the electronic device is switched from the landscape mode to a portrait mode while displaying the second execution screen, the second execution screen occupying at least two portions of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion, together with the first execution screen. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen and the second execution screen according to equivalent sizes based on the mode of the electronic device being switched to the portrait mode.

[0255] As described above, in one embodiment, a method of an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part, and a flexible display disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. The method may include an operation of displaying a first execution screen on the flexible display. The method may include an operation of receiving an input for dragging an icon associated with a second execution screen. The method may include an operation of displaying the second execution screen on the first part and the second part based on receiving the input for dragging the icon to a first part of the flexible display positioned on the first housing part or a second part of the flexible display positioned on the second housing part. The method may include an operation of displaying, on a third portion of the flexible display positioned on the third housing part, the first execution screen reduced in size according to the size of the third portion. The method may include an operation of displaying, on the first portion, the first execution screen reduced in size according to the size of the first portion, based on receiving the input for dragging the icon to the third portion of the flexible display. The method may include an operation of displaying, on the second portion and the third portion, the second execution screen.

[0256] In one embodiment, a method of an electronic device may be provided. The electronic device may include a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled to the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled to the second housing part, and a flexible display disposed on a front surface of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. The method may include an operation of displaying a first execution screen related to a first application on the flexible display. The method may include an operation of displaying at least one icon related to at least one application on an area of ​​the flexible display. The method may include an operation of receiving an input for moving the at least one icon to a defined area of ​​the flexible display. The method may include an operation of displaying a second execution screen related to the at least one application on the defined area of ​​the flexible display based on receiving the input, and displaying the first execution screen related to the first application by moving it to the left or right of the second execution screen.

[0257] For example, the receiving operation may include receiving the input while the state of the housing corresponds to an unfolded state.

[0258] For example, the electronic device may include a first sensor configured to detect a first angle between the first housing part and the second housing part, and a second sensor configured to detect a second angle between the second housing part and the third housing part. The method may include an operation of determining, in response to detecting the first angle and the second angle, that the first angle and the second angle are within a specified angular range including 180°, that the state of the housing corresponds to the unfolded state.

[0259] For example, the housing may include a first hinge assembly rotatably connecting the first housing part and the second housing part, and a second hinge assembly rotatably connecting the second housing part and the third housing part. The first portion of the flexible display positioned on the first housing part may be distinguished from the rest of the flexible display by a first foldable portion of the flexible display corresponding to the first hinge assembly. The third portion of the flexible display positioned on the third housing part may be distinguished from the rest of the flexible display by a second foldable portion of the flexible display corresponding to the second hinge assembly.

[0260] For example, the receiving action may include an action of receiving the input related to the second execution screen of a software application included in a specified category.

[0261] For example, the method may include an operation of displaying the second execution screen in one of the first portion and the third portion based on receiving another input related to a third execution screen of a software application of a different category from the designated category. The method may include an operation of displaying the first execution screen in the entire remaining portion of the first portion and the third portion, which is different from one portion in which the second execution screen is displayed.

[0262] For example, the receiving action may include receiving the input within a landscape mode defined by the orientation of the electronic device.

[0263] For example, the method may include an operation of checking whether the mode of the electronic device is switched from the landscape mode to the portrait mode while displaying the second execution screen that occupies at least two portions among the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion together with the first execution screen. The method may include an operation of displaying the first execution screen and the second execution screen according to equivalent sizes based on the mode of the electronic device being switched to the portrait mode.

[0264] In one embodiment, as described above, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions may be provided. The instructions may be executed by an electronic device including a multi-foldable housing including a first housing part, a first hinge assembly, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part via the first hinge assembly, a second hinge assembly, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part via the second hinge assembly, and a flexible display disposed on front surfaces of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display a first execution screen on the entire display area of ​​the flexible display in an unfolded state of the multi-foldable housing. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to receive an input for further displaying a second execution screen in the display area. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen in a first portion of the display area positioned on the first housing part and a second portion of the display area positioned on the second housing part, in response to the input received while displaying the first execution screen of the first category. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen in a third portion of the display area defined by a foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the second hinge assembly and positioned on the third housing part.The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen in the second portion and the third portion defined by the foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the first hinge assembly, in response to the input received while displaying the first execution screen of the second category. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen in the first portion.

[0265] For example, the electronic device may include a first sensor configured to detect a first angle between the first housing part and the second housing part, and a second sensor configured to detect a second angle between the second housing part and the third housing part. The instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to detect the unfolded state of the multi-foldable housing in response to detecting the first angle and the second angle, the first angle and the second angle being within a specified angular range including 180°.

[0266] For example, the categories of the first execution screen, including the first category and the second category, may be set by the resources of a software application that is executed to provide the first execution screen.

[0267] For example, the instructions, when executed by the electronic device, may cause the electronic device to identify, using whitelist information, a category corresponding to a software application providing the first execution screen, among the first category and the second category.

[0268] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (100) of FIG. 5) as described above comprises a multi-foldable housing including a first housing part (e.g., a first housing part (110) of FIG. 4a and / or FIG. 4b), a first hinge assembly (e.g., a first hinge assembly (150) of FIG. 4a and / or FIG. 4b), a second housing part (e.g., a second housing part (120) of FIG. 4a and / or FIG. 4b) rotatably coupled to the first housing part through the first hinge assembly, a second hinge assembly (e.g., a second hinge assembly (160) of FIG. 4a and / or FIG. 4b), and a third housing part (e.g., a third housing part (130) of FIG. 4a and / or FIG. 4b) rotatably coupled to the second housing part through the second hinge assembly, the first housing part, The second housing part and the third housing part may include a flexible display (e.g., the flexible display (140) of FIG. 4A and / or FIG. 4B) disposed on front surfaces thereof, a memory (e.g., the memory (520) of FIG. 5) including one or more storage media for storing instructions, and at least one processor (e.g., the processor (510) of FIG. 5) including a processing circuit. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display a first execution screen on the entire display area of ​​the flexible display in an unfolded state of the multi-foldable housing. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to receive an input for further displaying a second execution screen on the display area.The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to, in response to the input received while displaying the first execution screen of the first category, display the second execution screen on a first portion of the display area positioned on the first housing part (e.g., the first portion (r1) of FIG. 4A) and a second portion of the display area positioned on the second housing part (e.g., the second portion (r2) of FIG. 4A). The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen on a third portion of the display area defined by a foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the second hinge assembly and positioned on the third housing part (e.g., the third portion (r3) of FIG. 4A). The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the first execution screen in the second category, in response to the input received while displaying the first execution screen in the second category, in the second portion and the third portion defined by the foldable portion of the display area corresponding to the first hinge assembly. The instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to display the second execution screen in the first portion.

[0269] For example, the category of the first execution screen, including the first category and the second category, may be set by the resources of a software application that is executed to provide the first execution screen.

[0270] For example, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the electronic device to identify, using whitelist information, a category corresponding to a software application providing the first execution screen, among the first category and the second category.

[0271] The devices described above may be implemented as hardware components, software components, and / or a combination of hardware components and software components. For example, the devices and components described in the embodiments may be implemented using one or more general-purpose computers or special-purpose computers, such as a processor, a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic unit (PLU), a microprocessor, or any other device capable of executing instructions and responding to them. The processing device may execute an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications running on the operating system. The processing device may also access, store, manipulate, process, and generate data in response to the execution of the software. For ease of understanding, the processing device is sometimes described as being used alone; however, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the processing device may include multiple processing elements and / or multiple types of processing elements. For example, a processing unit may include multiple processors, or a processor and a controller. Other processing configurations, such as parallel processors, are also possible.

[0272] Software may include a computer program, code, instructions, or a combination of one or more of these, which may configure a processing device to perform a desired operation or may independently or collectively command the processing device. The software and / or data may be embodied in any type of machine, component, physical device, computer storage medium, or device for interpretation by the processing device or for providing instructions or data to the processing device. The software may also be distributed over networked computer systems and stored or executed in a distributed manner. The software and data may be stored on one or more computer-readable recording media.

[0273] The method according to the embodiment may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. In this case, the medium may be one that continuously stores a computer-executable program or one that temporarily stores it for execution or download. In addition, the medium may be various recording means or storage means in the form of a single or multiple hardware combinations, and is not limited to a medium directly connected to a computer system, but may also be distributed over a network. Examples of the medium may include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and those configured to store program commands, including ROM, RAM, and flash memory. In addition, examples of other media may include recording media or storage media managed by app stores that distribute applications, sites that supply or distribute various software, servers, etc.

[0274] Although the embodiments described above have been described by way of limited examples and drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made based on the above teachings. For example, appropriate results can still be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than described, and / or components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. are combined or combined in a different manner than described, or are replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents.

[0275] Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims described below.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, A housing comprising a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part; A flexible display arranged on the front of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part; A memory comprising one or more storage media for storing instructions; and At least one processor comprising a processing circuit, The above instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Displaying a first execution screen related to a first application on the flexible display; Displaying at least one icon associated with at least one application on an area of ​​the flexible display; Receiving an input to move at least one icon to a defined portion of the flexible display; Based on receiving the input, causing a second execution screen related to the at least one application to be displayed in the defined area of ​​the flexible display, and causing the first execution screen related to the first application to be displayed by moving it to the left or right of the second execution screen. Electronic devices.

2. In claim 1, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Causing the second execution screen to be displayed based on receiving the input while the state of the housing corresponds to the unfolded state, Electronic devices.

3. In claim 2, a first sensor configured to detect a first angle between the first housing part and the second housing part; and Further comprising a second sensor configured to detect a second angle between the second housing part and the third housing part; The above instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: In response to detecting the first angle and the second angle, which are included in a specified angular range including 180º, causing the state of the housing to be determined to correspond to the unfolded state, Electronic devices.

4. In claims 1 to 3, the housing, A first hinge assembly that rotatably connects the first housing part and the second housing part; and A second hinge assembly that rotatably connects the second housing part and the third housing part Including more, The above defined area is, located on the second hinge assembly, and including a boundary parallel to the direction in which the second hinge assembly extends, Electronic devices.

5. In claims 1 to 4, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Based on receiving the input related to the second execution screen of the software application included in the designated category, causing the second execution screen to be displayed, which occupies at least two parts among a first part of the flexible display located on the first housing, a second part of the flexible display located on the second housing, and a third part of the flexible display located on the third housing. Electronic devices.

6. In claim 5, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Based on receiving another input related to a third execution screen of a software application of a different category from the above-mentioned category, displaying the second execution screen in one of the first part and the third part, Causing the first execution screen to be displayed in the entire remaining portion, which is different from the portion where the second execution screen is displayed, among the first portion and the third portion. Electronic devices.

7. In claim 5, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: Causing to display the second execution screen occupying at least two portions among the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion, based on receiving the input within a landscape mode defined by the orientation of the electronic device. Electronic devices.

8. In claim 7, the instructions, when individually and / or collectively executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to: While displaying the second execution screen that occupies at least two portions among the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion, along with the first execution screen, it is determined whether the mode of the electronic device is switched from the landscape mode to the portrait mode; Based on the mode of the electronic device being switched to the portrait mode, causing the first execution screen and the second execution screen to be displayed according to equal sizes, Electronic devices.

9. A method of an electronic device, wherein the electronic device comprises a housing including a first housing part, a second housing part rotatably coupled with the first housing part, and a third housing part rotatably coupled with the second housing part, and a flexible display disposed on the front surface of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part. An action of displaying a first execution screen related to a first application on the flexible display; An action of displaying at least one icon associated with at least one application on an area of ​​the flexible display; An action of receiving an input to move at least one icon to a defined area of ​​the flexible display; Based on receiving the input, an operation of displaying a second execution screen related to the at least one application in the defined area of ​​the flexible display and displaying the first execution screen related to the first application by moving it to the left or right of the second execution screen. method.

10. In claim 9, the receiving operation comprises: Including an operation of receiving the input while the state of the housing corresponds to an unfolded state, method.

11. In claim 10, the electronic device, a first sensor configured to detect a first angle between the first housing part and the second housing part; and Further comprising a second sensor configured to detect a second angle between the second housing part and the third housing part; Further comprising an operation of determining, in response to detecting the first angle and the second angle, which are included in a specified angular range including 180º, that the state of the housing corresponds to the unfolded state. method.

12. In claims 9 to 11, the housing, A first hinge assembly that rotatably connects the first housing part and the second housing part; and A second hinge assembly that rotatably connects the second housing part and the third housing part Including more, The above defined area is, A second hinge assembly positioned on the second hinge assembly and including a boundary parallel to the direction in which the second hinge assembly extends, method.

13. In claims 9 to 12, the receiving operation comprises: An operation for receiving said input related to said second execution screen of a software application included in a specified category, method.

14. In claim 13, An operation of displaying the second execution screen on one of the first part of the flexible display positioned on the first housing and the third part of the flexible display positioned on the third housing, based on receiving another input related to a third execution screen of a software application of a different category from the above-mentioned designated category; and Further comprising an action of displaying the first execution screen in the entire remaining portion, which is different from one portion among the first portion and the third portion, where the second execution screen is displayed. method.

15. In claims 9 to 14, the receiving operation comprises: comprising an action of receiving said input within a landscape mode defined by the orientation of said electronic device; method.

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