Some might think that a flexible display is something out of a Sci-Fi film, however, they’re actually real. Samsung has already shown off its OLED flexible display, and today, we’ve gotten word that LG has now put its flexible e-ink display into mass production. Are these leading the way for a larger flexible display to land on the next iPad?

LG’s new flexible display in its current state isn’t ideal for an iPad. It measures in at 6-inches, which is the same size as Amazon’s Kindle and Barnes and Noble’s Nook. It’s silly to think Apple would put an e-ink display on any of its tablet, considering it’s no where comparable to the beautiful Retina-display that is included on the new iPad.

If companies like LG and Samsung can begin manufacturing flexible displays on the 7-inch or 10-inch level, with higher graphics, they’ll probably make it into the next iPad. But until they’re better than the Retina display, there may be some waiting.

What is interesting here is the fact that the technology has begun to roll out, and will soon be making its way into devices. I suspect flexible display technology to first be featured in 6-inch e-readers, and that’s most likely what the flexible LG display is being made for. How about the next Kindle?

Despite what you might think, a flexible display is actually cheaper than a glass display. The plastic is cheaper to manufacture and is actually half the price and 30% lighter than glass. Being plastic, it is also a bit more rugged than glass. Sounds perfect.

I think what we’re waiting for is a flexible OLED display to head into mass production. Check it out working on a concept handset:

What do you think of flexible displays?

[via Extreme Tech]