Nokia to give iPhone a run for its money: company, British university develop nanotechnology concept device.

Morph, a joint nanotechnology concept, developed by Nokia Research Center (NRC) and the University of Cambridge, was launched in February with the "Design and the Elastic Mind" exhibition, on view until May 12 at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.

A concept that demonstrates how future mobile devices might be stretchable and flexible, Morph would allow users to transform their mobile devices into radically different shapes. It demonstrates the ultimate functionality that nanotechnology might be capable of delivering: flexible materials, transparent electronics, and self-cleaning surfaces.

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"Nokia Research Center is looking at ways to reinvent the form and function of mobile devices," said Bob Iannucci, chief technology officer for Nokia. "The Morph concept shows what might be possible."

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Professor Mark Welland, head of the Department of Engineering's Nanoscience Group at the University of Cambridge and university director of the Nokia-Cambridge collaboration, added, "Developing the Morph concept with Nokia has provided us with a focus that is both artistically inspirational but, more importantly, sets the technology agenda for our joint nanoscience research that will stimulate our future work together."

The partnership between Nokia and the University of Cambridge was announced in March 2007, an agreement to work together on an extensive and long-term program of joint research projects. NRC has established a research facility at the university's West Cambridge site and collaborates with several departments--initially the Nanoscience Center and Electrical Division of the Engineering Department--on projects that are centered on nanotechnology.

Elements of Morph might be available to integrate into hand-held devices within seven years, though initially only at the high end. However, experts say nanotechnology may one day lead to low-cost manufacturing solutions and offers the possibility of integrating complex functionality at a low price.

Visit www.moma.org/elasticmind and www.nokia.com/A4126514 for more information.