Pixel 11 Pro displays are ‘more than twice’ as scratch-resistant – it only gets better from there

Google is touting remarkable durability in its Pixel 11 Pro series, claiming that the phones feature scratch and drop protection like never before. Constructed with Gorilla Glass Victus 2, the Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL boast an "anti-scratch display coating" that the tech giant asserts delivers "more than twice" the scratch-resistance of prior Pixel devices. These phones are touted as the most durable Pixels to date, with a drop-resistant display that is over twice as scratch-resistant as previous models.

The Pixel 11 Pro phones not only flaunt the toughest screen ever, but they also come with IP68 water and dust resistance. Underneath the hard glass lies a Super Actua display, which can reach an impressive brightness of 3,600 nits, ensuring clear visibility even in direct sunlight. According to a Google spokesperson, the anti-scratch coating is a mere 800nm thick, roughly equivalent to 1% the thickness of a human hair, and sits between the actual glass and the oleophobic coating.

Testing was conducted to verify both the anti-scratch performance and the durability of the coating, simulating real-life scenarios such as the phone being tossed around in a purse with keys and nail files.

Google remains tight-lipped about the exact composition of the coating, stating it is proprietary. However, this development follows a similar trend in the industry where other brands like Apple and Honor have been increasing their focus on ceramic-based materials to enhance the durability of their devices. While Google has not officially disclosed the use of ceramic in this latest iteration, the absence of ceramic in the discussion is certainly noteworthy.

Notably, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold does not utilize traditional cover glass; instead, it employs an innovative ceramic glass material. This design not only provides enhanced drop and scratch protection but also comes with a new rear "glass fiber composite" that Google claims is "nearly impossible to crack." Additionally, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold boasts a gearless hinge that safeguards the inner display and a brand-new Super Actua outer display made of ultra-strong ceramic cover glass, making it three times more durable than last year's device.