Foldable phones have always been exciting, but they come with one big problem: fragility. While brands like Samsung and Huawei have made strides in hinge durability and screen protection, water resistance has remained the final frontier. That changes with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which Google claims is the first truly IP68 water-resistant foldable.
But does this make it a practical everyday phone, or is it just a flashy spec-sheet win? Let’s dig in.
What Makes the Pixel 10 Pro Fold Special?
-
IP68 Rating – Most foldables only manage IPX8, meaning they can handle water but not dust. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is rated IP68, protecting it from both dust and water immersion.
-
Redesigned Hinge Mechanism – Google re-engineered its aerospace-grade hinge with tighter seals and a hydrophobic layer around the foldable display.
-
Durability Testing – Early reports suggest it survived 30 minutes in 1.5 meters of water without damage, matching the resilience of flat flagship phones like the iPhone 16 Pro.
Comparison: Pixel 10 Pro Fold vs. Other Foldables
| Feature | Pixel 10 Pro Fold | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 | OnePlus Open 2 | Honor Magic V3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | IP68 (water + dust) | IPX8 (water only) | IPX4 (splash only) | None |
| Durability Focus | Aerospace hinge, hydrophobic coating | Strong hinge, Ultra Thin Glass | Lightweight build | Slim design |
| Software | Optimized Android 16 + AI | One UI foldable tweaks | OxygenOS fold mode | MagicOS fold UI |
Why This Matters for Foldables
Foldables are expensive, and most buyers hesitate because of durability fears. With IP68:
-
Everyday Peace of Mind: You won’t panic if you drop it in a sink, pool, or dusty trail.
-
Industry Benchmark: If Google pulls this off, Samsung and Apple’s rumored foldable will have to follow.
-
Resale Value: Durability upgrades typically boost second-hand pricing, making the Pro Fold a safer investmen
Verdict: Is the Pixel 10 Pro Fold the New Foldable Standard?
If you’ve been holding out on foldables because of durability concerns, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is the first model that truly tackles the water-resistance issue head-on. While it’s still premium-priced, the IP68 rating gives it real-world practicality that previous foldables couldn’t match.
It’s not just a cool party trick — it could be the moment foldables go mainstream.
Comments
Post a Comment