When it comes to smartphones, 2020 was already pretty crazy. There's been folding phone drama, Samsung's Galaxy S20 series has achieved incredible camera settings, and the world's largest mobile conference has been canceled. It's still February.

But if these leaked designs are to be believed, that's nothing compared to what Apple is planning. According to a recently discovered patent, Apple is considering an all-glass iPhone with at least two screens. Yes, one of the best phones could be all-screen.

The design spotted by PatentlyApple presents a wraparound glass enclosure that would effectively function as an all-around screen.

What use is this if only one screen can be viewed at a time? Well, PatentlyApple also found in the patent language the use of a "force detection system configured to detect deformation of a first area and to modify the operation of an electronic device in response to the detection of deformation of the first area."

Essentially, if the screen cracks or becomes inoperable, the phone can be turned around and the back of the device can be used as another screen. What is not clear, however, is how a rear-facing camera array will appear, but this is a mere proof of concept at this very early stage, and practical concerns do not yet seem necessary.

In fact, the design defines up to six display areas, with displays being built on the top, bottom, and sides of the screen in addition to the front and back. Presumably these will be used to display touch-sensitive icons instead of buttons, as other smartphone makers, such as Samsung, are considering adopting. Also, like other premium phones with curved "waterfall" displays, the screen will naturally extend, adding depth to the smartphone experience.

It is worth noting that these are early concept designs and the above elements may (or may not) make it to a future iPhone without realizing the phone as is. Apple has also filed a patent for a wraparound glass enclosure for the iMac desktop computer and the Apple Watch, with icons on the sides in addition to the Watch's face

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If Apple's design comes to fruition, it would certainly be a novel trick, and people whose cell phone screens are prone to cracking would absolutely love it. Simply turn the phone around in the case and you have a screen that looks as good as new. Just don't break the other side.

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