Pixel 9 Pro Fold Durability: No Major Year-on-Year Improvement in Bend Test

The durability and bend test of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, conducted by JerryRigEverything, shows that while the hinge remains strong, there has been no noticeable improvement over last year’s model.

The Gorilla Glass Victus 2 outer display (Actua) is durable, scratching at a level six with deeper grooves at level seven. However, the inner Ultra-Thin Glass display (Super Actua) is more fragile, scratching at level two, and even fingernails can cause damage.

The phone’s exterior is built from a high-strength aluminum alloy used in aerospace, including the surface of the hinge, while the actual internal components of the hinge are made from multi-alloy steel. Despite its robust materials, the hinge is vulnerable to debris such as dirt and sand, as there is no dust protection (IPX8 rating).

In terms of a bend test, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold holds up well when closed, with no issues. However, when the device is open and pressure is applied from the back, its durability is called into question. The antenna lines near the hinge are the main weak point, causing the display to pop out rather than crack under pressure—similar to last year’s model.

Compared to Samsung’s Z Fold 6, which successfully withstood a similar test without catastrophic bending, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold shows less resistance.

In a subsequent teardown, under the cover screen is the larger battery, while the other half contains a smaller cell and the motherboard. As with other phones in 2024, the USB-C port is on a separate board for easier repair. Beneath the battery is the vapor chamber, which plays a crucial role in heat dissipation. Interestingly, most heat exits from the inside when the device is closed, funneling from the Tensor G4 processor to the vapor chamber at the center, despite the foldable screen.