Foldable smartphones are generally less durable than traditional slab-style models, primarily due to the additional moving parts involved. The folding mechanism makes devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold more prone to issues such as dust and water ingress compared to their non-foldable counterparts. However, the anticipated Pixel 10 Pro Fold seems poised to make significant advancements in durability. Recent reports indicate that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold will feature an IP68 water resistance rating.
This is a notable improvement over last year’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which had an IPX8 rating. The IP68 rating not only ensures that the phone is capable of withstanding water exposure, but it also confirms that it is “dust-tight,” as per the International Electrotechnical Commission’s IP ratings. The transition from an “X” rating in the 9 Pro Fold, indicating no official dust protection, to a rating of 6 in the 10 Pro Fold is significant because it represents the highest level of dust resistance available. Importantly, an IPX8 rating does not imply that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold had no dust resistance; it simply lacked an official dust resistance rating.
The introduction of IP68 for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold suggests that Google is confident in its dust protection capabilities, which is promising for the device’s overall longevity. Moreover, sources indicate that the new model will feature a “much slimmer” hinge than its predecessor. In related news, there are rumors suggesting that the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 may also feature an IP68 rating upon its release next month. Current speculation sets the launch of the Z Fold 7 at an Unpacked event in July, while the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to debut on August 20.
Leave a Reply