# The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Durability Examination: How Concerned Should You Be?
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the newest addition to Google’s foldable smartphone collection, recently faced a rigorous durability examination conducted by Zack Nelson, the host of the well-known YouTube channel *JerryRigEverything*. Famous for testing smartphones to their breaking point, Nelson’s evaluations are notorious for uncovering the structural vulnerabilities of devices, often in ways that exceed regular usage. Unfortunately, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold did not pass the test without damage, breaking in two during the bending assessment, similar to its forerunner, the original Pixel Fold.
But just how worried should you be about this outcome? Is the durability of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold a critical concern for everyday users, or is this merely another extreme evaluation that doesn’t accurately represent real-life conditions? Let’s explore the specifics.
## Key Information
– **The Examination**: Zack Nelson of *JerryRigEverything* subjected the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold to his renowned durability evaluation, which encompasses scratch, dust, burn, and bend assessments.
– **The Outcome**: Although the hinge of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold endured, one side of the device broke, splitting the phone in half.
– **The Alarm**: This result prompts inquiries regarding the overall durability of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, particularly since the original Pixel Fold also did not withstand the same evaluation last year.
## Breakdown of the Examination
### Scratch Examination
The cover screen of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, shielded by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, began to scratch at a level six on the Mohs Hardness Scale, with more noticeable grooves appearing at level seven. This performance is quite standard for contemporary smartphones. However, the inner display, similar to most foldable devices, proved to be significantly more fragile and could be marred by something as simple as a fingernail under sufficient pressure. While this delicacy is to be expected for foldable screens, it serves as a reminder for users to handle the inner display with care.
### Dust Resistance Examination
Foldable smartphones possess a greater number of moving components than traditional smartphones, rendering them particularly susceptible to dust and debris. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts an IPX8 rating, indicating it is resistant to water but not to dust. Nelson’s evaluation involved scattering sand and dust over the device, and the findings were troubling. The phone emitted audible crunching sounds when the hinge was manipulated, suggesting that dust had infiltrated the mechanism. This implies that users should exercise additional caution when utilizing the Pixel 9 Pro Fold in dusty conditions.
### Bend Examination
The bend examination was where the Pixel 9 Pro Fold met its unfortunate fate. Although the hinge mechanism itself withstood the test, the device fractured along the antenna lines on the left side, which are recognized weak points in many smartphones. This marks the second consecutive year that a Google foldable has failed this evaluation, raising concerns about the design decisions taken by Google, particularly regarding antenna placement.
## Should You Be Anxious About the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s Durability?
### Real-World Significance
It is crucial to acknowledge that Nelson’s durability assessments are structured to push devices to their utmost limits, frequently in ways that do not mirror typical usage patterns. Most users are unlikely to intentionally attempt to bend their phones in half or expose them to extreme dust levels. However, these evaluations do underline potential vulnerabilities that might become problematic over time.
For instance, the scratch examination outcomes are quite empirical and offer insightful information regarding how easily the screens of the phone can suffer damage. The dust evaluation is especially pertinent for foldable devices, which are more prone to debris entering the hinge mechanism. While the bend evaluation may seem excessive, it does invoke concerns about the structural stability of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, particularly if the phone experiences accidental falls or pressure while in a pocket.
### User Feedback
In addition to Nelson’s examination, there have been reports from several early users of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold facing durability concerns. Some users have detected unusual sounds emanating from the hinge during the opening or closing of the phone, which is atypical for foldable devices. This matter has been recorded on platforms like Reddit, where users have voiced worries regarding the long-term dependability of the hinge mechanism.
Furthermore, the original Pixel Fold encountered its own durability challenges, including a hinge that failed to open completely flat over time. Dust and debris buildup in the hinge rendered it impossible for some users to fully open the device. While it remains too soon to ascertain whether the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will encounter similar issues, these initial reports merit attention.
### Google’s Development Journey
It’s vital to remember that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents Google’s second attempt at creating a foldable phone. Other manufacturers, such as Samsung, have had multiple generations to enhance their foldable designs. Google’s foldables are still early in their development, and it’s not unexpected that there are some teething issues. While the Pixel 9 Pro Fold breaking in
