TECHNOLOGY

The Foldable Fiasco: Google's Pixel 9 Pro's Weak Link

TaiwanSun Sep 15 2024
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, touted as the world's thinnest and most durable foldable smartphone by Google, has been put to the test. Unfortunately, its impressive hardware specifications come at a cost - a design flaw that makes it prone to cracking and breaking when bent in the wrong direction. The issue lies in the placement of an antenna line on the primary display, which causes it to snap easily. This is concerning, given the device's solid aluminum construction and IP68 rating, which is supposed to protect it from dust and water. But what about the hinge? Can't it withstand the pressure? Unfortunately, the creaking sound that emerges when gravel and dust make their way inside the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a warning sign. And when you add to that the ease with which the device cracks when bent, it's clear that the structural rigidity of the device falls short. "Why did Google choose to put an antenna line in a device that's already so thin? " one might ask. The company has mentioned that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a stronger hinge compared to the previous generation, but that's small comfort when the overall design is so flawed. It's crucial to consider the implications of this design flaw. What if you're holding your Pixel 9 Pro Fold when it suddenly snaps in half? The consequences could be catastrophic. Broken screens are a common issue, but when it happens with a foldable device, the stakes are higher. "Has Google learned from its mistakes? " one wonders. Will the next iteration of the Pixel Fold be more durable? Only time will tell. In the meantime, potential buyers should take a hard look at this durability test and think twice before investing in a device that's still in its infancy.

questions

    How does the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's design compare to the first-generation model?
    What would be the cost of repairing or replacing the device if it is damaged during usage?
    How does the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold's design compromise its durability?

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