Samsung finally has some competition in the foldable phone space in the Western world. Google's first foldable phone was announced recently, and the device has started reaching its first set of customers. While the Pixel Fold has received praise for its camera quality, wider outer screen, and thinner form factor, it also seems to have some real first-gen issues.
Pixel Fold's screen is breaking down within days
Some Pixel Fold users have already started complaining about its foldable screen quality. The display seems to be breaking down after minimal use. Some users claim that their Pixel Fold's screen has dents and various imperfections visible at certain angles. Other users say the foldable display's screen protector doesn't run flush with its bezels, leaving a gutter-like space. Ars Technica's Ron Amadeo also faced issues with their Pixel Fold's display. The screen broke down after just four days of use, and the cause seems to be the gap between the screen protector and the bezel, where dust and other debris are collected.
The device also seems to other have issues with its screen protector. For some users, it has started to peel off within the first week. People have also started observing long scratches inside the screen. One user who claims to have played with the Pixel Fold for just five hours has noticed that the display's laminate is lifting across the hinge, and there are spider web-like cracks around it. And since it is a new phone, shipping dates for replacement screens are hovering around September.
Galaxy Z Fold phones are a lot more durable in comparison
We remember similar issues cropping up during the launch of Samsung's first Galaxy Z Fold. But that was four years ago, and the South Korean firm had to recall affected units and postpone the launch by at least a few months. We didn't expect to see such issues with the Pixel Fold, as the foldable technology has dramatically improved since those days. While we commend the Pixel Fold's ultra-thin design, wider screen, and water resistance, Google clearly needs another generation of foldable phones to sort out screen durability issues. People are pissed off after seeing screen issues, especially after spending $1,800.
Very few foldable phones from Samsung have display-related issues these days, and even if that occurs, it doesn't usually happen this early in the device's lifetime. And that is a big reason to get a Galaxy Z Fold device instead of the Pixel Fold. We also know that Samsung has a superior after-sales service compared to Google. Moreover, going by early reviews, Google has implemented far fewer multitasking options, making the Galaxy Z Fold lineup superior for heavy users and those who multitask frequently (which is also a big point of getting foldable phones).
