HTC patenting unique dual-mode slider

HTC has developed a technology for slider phones that could make them both more useful and more elegant, according to a new US patent filing. Rather than rely on either dual sliders (as with the Helio Ocean) or other complicated designs, the prototype would include a unique keyboard plate and slider track that would allow users to shift the LCD from calling to text modes without significantly impacting the size of the phone.

The cellphone maker is not under any pressure to use the patent and has not done so to date. However, the design shown in concept images is one not seen before from HTC. If put into production, the device would either be a new model altogether or else a major replacement for an existing model, such as the HTC Vox (known as the SMT5800 for Verizon). [via Unwired View]