In a welcome development for consumers, Google‘s second foldable phone, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, has earned praise for its repairability in a recent teardown by iFixit, a popular tech repair website. Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold Scores High in Repairability Test
Foldable phones, with their complex designs and delicate screens, have historically posed challenges for DIY repairs. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, however, appears to be a step in the right direction.
iFixit lauded the phone’s “intuitive layokmjnhut” of internal components, with one member jokingly remarking they wouldn’t mind switching to Android for such a user-friendly design.
Replacing commonly failing parts like
the USB-C port is straightforward, as they are situated independently from other components. Google’s choice of screws further simplifies disassembly compared to competing foldables. Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold Scores High in Repairability Test
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iFixit also highlighted the ability to remove the external display without requiring heat, a process known to be risky for inexperienced repairers.
However, the teardown wasn’t without its criticisms. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s battery replacement process was deemed less than ideal. iFixit specifically faulted Google’s use of pull tabs for battery removal, finding them to be “flimsier” than those used by Samsung and prone to breakage even with the application of heat.
Another point of concern was the phone’s logic board, which iFixit described as “flimsy” and cautioned users to handle with extreme care to avoid damage.
The inherent nature of foldable screens also presents repairability challenges. The hinge design, while impressive, makes the screen more susceptible to dust and liquid ingress, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Despite these drawbacks, Google’s efforts to improve repairability are commendable. The company’s decision to provide detailed repair guides alongside the phone is another positive step. When combined with its user-friendly design for common repairs, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold emerges as a more repairable option than many foldables currently on the market.
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