Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold has arrived, marketed as the thinnest foldable Android smartphone on the market. While this sleek design comes with a hefty price tag of around $1,800, its durability has been called into question by the popular YouTube channel JerryRigEverything.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold may boast exceptional repairability, as confirmed by sources like iFixit and Phone Repair Guru, but that advantage is compromised if the device is folded the wrong way. During the rigorous durability tests conducted by Zach Nelson of JerryRigEverything, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s weaknesses were starkly revealed.
Google claims this Pixel model is their toughest foldable phone to date, yet it struggled significantly during the scratch, burn, and bend tests. The “grit sandwich” test, tailored for foldable devices, was particularly revealing. When subjected to a mixture of sand and metallic dust, the phone’s Super Actua Flex display emitted unsettling crunching noises, underscoring its lack of certified dust resistance. While it boasts IPX8 water resistance, this feature does not extend to dust protection, unlike its competitor, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6.
A newfound vulnerability lies in the symmetrical antenna lines on the top and bottom of the secondary display, accentuating the challenges of maintaining both form and function in a foldable device. As potential buyers weigh their options, it’s crucial to consider these durability concerns, especially if keeping the Pixel 9 Pro Fold in pristine condition is a priority.
This latest revelation underscores the delicate balance manufacturers face in merging cutting-edge design with practical durability. As innovative as the Pixel 9 Pro Fold might be, its real-world performance in harsh conditions is something buyers should scrutinize closely.
