iFixit finds Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8’s hinge vulnerable to pocket lint despite IP48 rating
iFixit’s teardown gave the Galaxy Z Fold 8 a repairability score of 4 out of 10, noting that its IP48 rating lets dust reach the hinge.
In its recent teardown, iFixit assigned the Galaxy Z Fold 8 a modest 4-out-of-10 repairability rating, largely due to problems with the hinge mechanism. The phone’s IP48 ingress rating does not block particles under 1 mm, allowing dust and sand to enter the hinge and produce loud crunching sounds that can halt normal opening. Samsung’s design treats the hinge and inner display as a single assembly, meaning any damage would necessitate a full-phone replacement.
This vulnerability to pocket lint has been a recurring issue for foldable devices. Meanwhile, newer foldables from Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Pixel 11 Pro Fold, and Honor’s Magic V6 feature IP6X dust-proof ratings, putting pressure on Samsung to improve its protection.
Why it matters
Consumers may face costly repairs for the $1,900 Z Fold 8 if lint damages its hinge, highlighting durability gaps in premium foldables.
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