Hmm—I’m not sure I get the real-world importance or appeal, but the short demo is neat:
Researchers at Queen’s University’s Human Media Lab have developed the world’s first full-colour, high-resolution and wireless flexible smartphone to combine multitouch with bend input. The phone, which they have named ReFlex, allows users to experience physical tactile feedback when interacting with their apps through bend gestures.
Just an alternative to cracking/shattering glass screens qualifies as “real world importance and appeal”