Samsung's $1,900 Galaxy Z Fold 8 still has a serious problem with dust getting into its hinge

Samsung's $1,900 Galaxy Z Fold 8 continues to face a significant issue with dust infiltrating its hinge, a problem that has persisted since the device's inception seven years ago, according to iFixit's recent teardown analysis. The device boasts an IP48 rating, indicating protection against foreign objects larger than 1mm in diameter and the ability to withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes.

However, the real challenge arises when smaller particles, such as fine dust and sand, manage to enter through the hinge mechanism. iFixit demonstrated this by applying UV-reactive powder that measured around 0.04mm across, which quickly found its way into the hinge during repeated opening and closing. The result was a noisy, malfunctioning hinge, which ultimately prevented the device from opening normally.

Despite Samsung's improvements, including the use of silicon-carbon batteries and titanium layers beneath the inner display, the hinge remains a liability for owners of the $1,900 handset. The sealed components of the phone performed well overall, but the exposed hinge was heavily caked in debris, highlighting the ongoing issue.