The new bend test for Pixel 9 Pro Fold shows that the latest model in the series is all about bending. failed to show significant improvement compared to last year’s series. revealed. In JerryRigEverything’s durability and bend test, the phone’s hinge was put through some serious testing, just like in the previous series, and there are also significant issues with the device’s durability noticeable.

The front display of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2. In the scratch test, the phone starts to scratch at the sixth level and at the seventh level. Deeper cavities are created. The Ultra Thin Glass (Super Actua), the inner screen of the phone, is much more sensitive. So much so that it starts to scratch at the second level and can even be damaged by nails. This shows that the inner screen of the device is not as durable as the outer screen.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold disappointed with the inner screen

The phone’s outer surface, including the hinge surface, is made of “high-strength aluminum alloy.” The inner part of the hinge is reinforced with “multi-alloy steel,” but since the phone isn’t IPX8-certified, it could be damaged if exposed to dust and dirt. Squeaking noises start coming from the hinge.

While the device shows no issues during the bend test when the phone is closed, issues start to arise when the device is bent from the back while open. While it was observed that the left and right rear panels that touch the spine of the hinge did not provide enough resistance, JerryRigEverything, who conducted the tests, says that they encountered a similar issue last year. Again, like last year, in this year’s test, instead of the screen cracking off the cover, the hinge managed to pass the test without breaking while being removed from the case.

iFixit disassembles the Pixel 9 Pro Fold

In addition to JerryRigEverything, iFixit also posted a video of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold teardown process. As you can see in the video, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a larger battery underneath the back display, while a smaller cell and motherboard sit on the other side. This year’s models appear to have the USB-C port on their own motherboard for easier repair. Also of note is the cooling area underneath the battery and Tensor G4 processor. Interestingly, most of the device’s thermal heat dissipation comes from the back when the display is closed, but that heat is directed towards the center of the phone where the plastic foldable display sits. It doesn’t raise any questions about the long-term durability of the device..

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