Mastering Complexity in the Evolution of Smartphones

Challenge

As smartphones evolve from basic communication tools to advanced entertainment devices, the complexity of their designs and functionality increases exponentially: Today’s smartphones serve as digital assistants, gaming platforms, high-quality cameras, and media streaming centers, escalating the challenges manufacturers face in the fiercely competitive market. To remain at the forefront, manufacturers must find partners capable of managing the growing complexity of their devices. This is why a global technology leader contacted Gore when they were developing a new model of their flagship smartphone.

When our customer first approached us, their phone’s design was already advanced. Due to a complex stack-up of different layers within the device, our engineers had to find a solution that would meet a range of requirements: The vent should not only act as water barrier, but also provide pressure equalization and minimize acoustic insertion loss. Luckily, the Gore team knew exactly how to help.

Solution

To develop a venting solution according to our customer’s needs, the Gore team tailored an existing membrane and leveraged their extensive testing capabilities to make sure it provides the quality our customer aimed for. In addition, our engineers provided local support whenever needed, so that the development would meet the set schedule and mass production could start on time.

As the smartphone model advanced over the years, so did our venting solutions. By merging pressure and acoustic venting functionalities into an innovative membrane solution, our customer was able to streamline their manufacturing process notably and continued to apply this efficient solution for following generations.

The Technologies Behind the Solution: GORE® Pressure Vents and GORE® Acoustic Vents

Gore venting solutions excel in complexity. In this case, it was a combination of GORE® Pressure Vents and GORE® Acoustic Vents that met all of our customer’s demands. A few key benefits include:

• Achieving highest IP standards for particle and immersion protection
• Maintaining exceptional levels of acoustic performance
• Providing optimum airflow for fast pressure equalization

For specifications and more detailed information on installation, please visit GORE® Pressure Vents or GORE® Acoustic Vents.

Result

What started out as a basic inquiry turned into a partnership filled with trust and commitment. For more than 7 years, we’ve been collaborating with our customer and providing maximum design flexibility for their design team. Here is what our customer values: