Pixel 11 Pro Fold Falls Short on Durability

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold claims to be three times more durable than its predecessor, and in several areas it delivers. Google's official statement is backed up by the phone's IP68 water resistance rating, which allows it to withstand submersion in 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. The ceramic outer display also shows significant improvement, with scratches starting at Mohs level 6.

However, not all areas of durability hold up as well. The inner display remains soft and prone to scratching, particularly near the hinge area, which has been a persistent weakness across four consecutive Pixel Fold generations. In fact, recent torture testing revealed that even with an anti-impact film beneath the inner display, the phone cracked along the same antenna lines under reverse pressure.

Despite these flaws, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold still boasts some impressive durability features. The gearless hinge is rated for tens of millions of fold cycles and has shown lab-tested results. Additionally, the glass-fiber composite back provides resistance against cracking on drops where traditional glass backs would shatter.

The phone's price of $1,899 puts it in a category where users expect more than just incremental improvements. With 'better than before' no longer being enough, smartphone longevity habits and charging practices take center stage.