Tag: Smartphone Durability

  • Xiaomi 17 Pro Durability Test: Glass vs. iPhone 17 Pro Scratch Resistance

    Xiaomi 17 Pro Durability Test: Glass vs. iPhone 17 Pro Scratch Resistance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 17 Pro features a unique secondary display in the camera bump and resembles the iPhone 17 Pro.
    2. The front screen is protected by Dragon Glass 3.0, showing scratches at level 7 on the Mohs hardness scale.
    3. The back panel is made of plastic, which is uncommon for a flagship phone, while the frame is aluminum.
    4. Plastic backs can be less prone to breaking, but this choice may surprise buyers used to glass backs.
    5. The Xiaomi 17 Pro passed durability tests, including a successful bend test and a disassembly review.


    China’s top smartphone models don’t usually show up on the JerryRigEverything YouTube channel, which focuses mainly on phones sold in the U.S. However, there are some exceptions, like the new Xiaomi 17 Pro. At first sight, this 6.3-inch flagship resembles the iPhone 17 Pro, but it has a unique secondary display located in the camera bump on the back.

    Scratch Resistance

    The AMOLED screen is shielded by Dragon Glass 3.0 on the front, and it doesn’t scratch at the usual Mohs hardness level of 6, only starting to show marks at level 7. This means that Xiaomi’s alternative to Gorilla Glass is nearly as scratch-resistant as Apple’s latest Ceramic Shield 2, which did slightly better in this durability assessment. Sadly, Xiaomi only applies this new glass on the front, and the back panel starts to show the common scratches at level 6 on the Mohs hardness scale.

    Build Quality

    In a surprising twist for a flagship phone, the back is made of plastic rather than glass. The frame is crafted from anodized aluminum. While plastic does have its perks, like being less prone to breaking than glass, this choice may catch many potential buyers off guard, particularly since lots of lower-end smartphones often come with plastic backs. On a brighter note, the bend test went smoothly, so the Xiaomi 17 Pro successfully passes JerryRigEverything’s durability tests. Following this, there’s a quick disassembly in the second part of the video, which you can find embedded below.

    JerryRigEverything YouTube

    Source:
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  • Oppo K13x: Durable Design for Daily Drops and Water Resistance

    Oppo K13x: Durable Design for Daily Drops and Water Resistance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Durable Design: The Oppo K13x features a nature-inspired design with aerospace-grade materials, ensuring strong internal durability.

    2. Shock Absorption Technology: It includes an internal shock absorption system that mimics sea sponges, protecting key components from damage during falls.

    3. Military-Grade Certifications: The phone has MIL-STD 810-H shock resistance certification and other durability recognitions from SGS, proving its resilience against impacts.

    4. Enhanced Display Protection: The display is made with Crystal Shield glass, providing 160% better impact resistance compared to standard materials, along with an included anti-drop case.

    5. Water and Dust Resistance: With an IP65 certification, the K13x is resistant to dust and low-pressure water jets, making it suitable for various environments.


    Oppo is getting ready to introduce its latest K-series smartphone, the Oppo K13x, in India, and new details have come to light regarding its strong build and internal durability technology. The company claims that the Oppo K13x has a design influenced by nature, enhanced using aerospace-grade materials, and is certified to be tough under military-grade testing conditions.

    Understanding the Durability of the Oppo K13x

    The Oppo K13x, reflecting the strength of sea sponges, features an internal shock absorption system crafted from elastic, impact-absorbing materials. These materials create protective zones between crucial components and the phone’s sturdy frame. The design emulates the porous nature of sponges, efficiently spreading stress and safeguarding internal parts from damage due to accidental falls.

    An aluminium alloy inner frame, similar to that used in high-performance aircraft, serves as the phone’s backbone. This AM04-grade alloy provides better structural strength compared to past models, while a plastic mid-frame helps to balance weight and comfort.

    Certifications and Protection Features

    The Oppo K13x is equipped with MIL-STD 810-H shock resistance certification, proving its capability to endure rough impacts and vibrations. It also boasts additional durability recognition from SGS Military Standard Certification and SGS Gold Drop-Resistance Certification, which confirm its performance in lab-simulated drop tests. Oppo has released a video demonstrating how the K13x withstands real-world durability challenges.

    The display is safeguarded by Crystal Shield glass, which is rated to deliver 160% better impact resistance than standard materials. Moreover, the phone comes with an anti-drop case for extra protection right from the start.

    Water and Dust Resistance

    With an IP65 certification, the K13x is designed to resist dust and low-pressure water jets, making it ideal for unpredictable environments. Water-resistant seals keep critical ports safe, while features like Splash Touch and Glove Touch ensure that users can operate the device even in wet conditions or with damp hands.

    The Oppo K13x is available in two colors: Midnight Violet and Sunset Peach, combining durability with aesthetic appeal. It has been tested for drops on granite surfaces at various angles, confirming that it can manage everyday accidents without sacrificing performance or comfort.

    A recent leak suggests that the Oppo K13x might be released by the end of June, with a starting price of Rs 12,999.


  • Vivo X Fold 5 Survives -20°C Without Performance Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Improved Durability: The Vivo X Fold 5 features IPX9 water protection, IP5X dust resistance, and extreme cold resistance, tested to function at temperatures as low as -20°C.

    2. Advanced Battery Technology: It introduces second-generation semi-solid battery technology, allowing operations in temperatures as low as -30°C, a significant upgrade from the X Fold 3.

    3. Ingress Protection Ratings: The phone boasts IP5X dust resistance and IPX8 water resistance, with capabilities to endure high-pressure hot water sprays, nearing an IPX9 rating.

    4. Specifications: The Vivo X Fold 5 is expected to have a 6.53-inch LTPO outer display, an 8.03-inch AMOLED inner display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage.

    5. Camera Features: Anticipated features include dual 32-megapixel selfie cameras and a triple rear camera setup co-engineered with Zeiss, featuring a 50-megapixel main sensor and 3x zoom periscope lens.


    Last week, Vivo started teasing the upcoming Vivo X Fold 5 foldable smartphone in China. Today, Vivo’s Product Manager Han Boxiao pointed out that this new model offers improved durability with better cold resistance and triple protection, building upon the features of its predecessor.

    Durability of Vivo X Fold 5

    Boxiao mentioned that the Vivo X Fold 5 represents a major advance in foldable phone durability. It will be the first large foldable device to have IPX9 water protection, IP5X dust resistance, and an additional layer of defense—extreme cold resistance. Vivo has tested this device in conditions as low as -20°C, confirming that all its functions operate normally even after extended exposure to such temperatures.

    Enhanced Battery Technology

    Moreover, the Vivo X Fold 5 introduces second-generation semi-solid battery technology. This new design extends the solid-state electrolyte from the positive to the negative electrode, enabling the battery to provide power even in temperatures as low as -30°C. This is a notable upgrade from the battery used in the previous model, the X Fold 3.

    Specifications Overview

    When it comes to ingress protection, the X Fold 5 stands out with its IP5X-rated dust resistance and IPX8 water resistance, which allows it to endure water pressure of up to 3 meters. It is also said to withstand high-pressure hot water sprays, pushing its credentials towards an IPX9 rating, unprecedented for a foldable phone.

    In terms of specifications, the Vivo X Fold 5 is expected to sport a 6.53-inch LTPO outer panel and a generous 8.03-inch AMOLED display on the inside, both offering a refreshing 120Hz rate. It will likely run on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage.

    Additionally, it is rumored to come with a 6,000mAh battery, supported by 90W fast charging and 30W wireless charging. For photography, the phone might feature dual 32-megapixel selfie cameras—one for each display—while the rear could include a triple camera setup co-engineered with Zeiss, featuring a 50-megapixel main sensor, an ultra-wide lens, and a periscope camera with 3x zoom.

    Although it is anticipated to launch in China in July, the global release could also occur in the same month.

  • Corning Unveils Tougher Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 for Smartphones

    Corning Unveils Tougher Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 for Smartphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 is designed for smartphones, specifically the Galaxy S25 Edge, and is extremely tough against drops.
    2. Traditional glass is fragile, while Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 uses advanced crystallization techniques to enhance strength and reduce breakage.
    3. The glass forms microcracks upon impact rather than a single large crack, improving its durability.
    4. Chemical tempering through an ion exchange process creates compressive stress, further enhancing resistance to damage.
    5. The launch event for the Galaxy S25 Edge, featuring Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, will be streamed live on YouTube, with the phone available on Amazon afterward.


    Corning has revealed its latest innovation, Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, designed specifically for smartphones. This glass is remarkably tough, enabling it to endure multiple drops onto concrete surfaces. It was developed in collaboration with Samsung, specifically for the ultra-slim Galaxy S25 Edge smartphone.

    Strength Compared to Traditional Glass

    Regular glass tends to be fragile and shatters easily when it hits the ground. While tempering glass can enhance its strength through a process of heating and cooling, it still remains vulnerable to breakage when dropped on concrete.

    Innovative Crystallization Techniques

    Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 employs unique methods to crystallize the glass, boosting its resistance to breaking. This is achieved by directing forces along crystal boundaries, which leads to the formation of microcracks instead of a single large crack upon impact. Additionally, the surface undergoes chemical tempering via the company’s ion exchange process, which generates compressive stress, enhancing its ability to resist damage.

    Those who are tired of the high costs associated with replacing shattered smartphone screens may wonder why manufacturers don’t opt for even sturdier plastic screens, similar to the Motorola Shattershield.

    Where to Watch and Buy

    You can catch the first look at Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 during the launch event for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, which will be streamed live on YouTube. The S25 Edge will be available for purchase on Amazon shortly after the event.

    Source:
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  • Google Pixel 8 Endures 4 Days in Hot Water Tub: Surprising Resilience

    Google Pixel 8 Endures 4 Days in Hot Water Tub: Surprising Resilience

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 8 demonstrated strong durability by surviving several days submerged in hot water.
    2. The phone was lost during a holiday celebration in Poland after falling into a hot tub.
    3. It was found after five days, thanks to a video from the Airbnb host showing it being retrieved.
    4. The Pixel 8 was submerged for four days in water at a temperature of 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit).
    5. After recovery, the phone powered up without issues, impressing the owner with its resilience.


    A remarkable tale about the Pixel 8 highlights the strong durability of Google’s flagship smartphones. This old premium device survived several days submerged in hot water, and here’s the full story of this tough Pixel 8.

    The Toughness of Google Pixel 8

    The individual who owned this Google Pixel 8 was from Poland. During a May Holiday celebration at an Airbnb, the device accidentally fell into a hot water tub. The owner, in a state of intoxication, thought he had lost his phone on the very first day of the holiday. Despite searching everywhere, he could not locate his Pixel 8.

    A Surprising Discovery

    On the fifth day of his holiday, the owner received a short video from the Airbnb host. In this video, the host was cleaning the hot tub with a net, which had managed to catch the missing Pixel 8. It turned out that the smartphone had been submerged for four days in a hot tub with a temperature of 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) and still lived to tell the tale.

    After retrieving his phone, the owner expected that his Pixel 8 was probably ruined. However, after connecting the device to a charger for a short time, it powered up without any problems. The owner was amazed by the resilience of his phone, declaring that he would never purchase a smartphone that wasn’t a Google Pixel.

  • OPPO F29 Series: Durable Phone for India’s Gig Workers

    OPPO F29 Series: Durable Phone for India’s Gig Workers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OPPO F29 series, called the Durable Champion, will launch on March 20, 2025, focusing on robustness and performance for India’s gig economy users.
    2. Weighing only 180g, the F29 series is highly durable with an IP66 rating for water resistance and IP68 for submersion, along with an “Armour Body” design for added protection.
    3. The smartphones have passed 14 military-grade tests, ensuring they can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh environments.
    4. The new “Hunter Antenna” enhances connectivity by increasing signal strength by 300%, beneficial for users in challenging locations.
    5. The F29 Pro will be available in Marble White and Granite Black, while the F29 will come in Solid Purple and Glacier Blue, with a 30% rise in sales noted for the F Series.


    OPPO India is set to unveil the OPPO F29 series, dubbed the Durable Champion, on March 20, 2025. The F29 series is crafted to offer robustness, dependability, and top-notch performance, catering to the demands of India’s gig economy. This includes users like drivers, delivery agents, shopkeepers, and small business owners.

    Lightweight Yet Strong

    Manufactured in OPPO’s Greater Noida facility, the F29 series is impressively light at just 180g while boasting remarkable durability. It achieves an official rating of IP66, making it resistant to heavy rain and unexpected water splashes. Additionally, it has an IP68 rating, allowing it to endure 30 minutes submerged in water, like in a flooded pothole or sink. The IP69 rating indicates it can withstand high-pressure hot water jets, perfect for tough environments such as factory floors or the heat of Chennai summers. The design features an “Armour Body” which includes shock-absorbing edges, reinforced corners, and a camera ring that’s elevated to prevent scratches. Furthermore, the internal frame is made of aerospace-grade metal, making it about 10% more durable than previous versions.

    Military-Grade Tested

    OPPO has rigorously tested the F29 against 14 military-grade standards, enduring conditions from extreme cold of -40°C to dust storms resembling desert environments. The brand, recognized as India’s preferred choice for water-resistant smartphones according to Counterpoint Research, assures users that these devices will withstand monsoon rains, dusty travels, and accidental drops without a hitch.

    Enhanced Connectivity

    The smartphones are equipped with a new “Hunter Antenna,” which reportedly increases signal strength by 300%. This is particularly beneficial for users who need to stay connected while in elevators, remote locations, or tight storage areas.

    In recent months, OPPO has noted a 30% rise in sales for its F Series. The F29 Pro will be available in Marble White and Granite Black, while the F29 will come in Solid Purple and Glacier Blue. Further details will be announced at the launch event tomorrow. For now, you can look at our earlier posts to learn more about these exciting new smartphones.


  • Galaxy S24 Ultra Aces Skydiving Durability Test

    Galaxy S24 Ultra Aces Skydiving Durability Test

    Smartphone prices continue to soar, sometimes surpassing $1000 for many high-tier models. Users expect these devices to deliver exceptional performance, premium quality components and outstanding durability – something some manufacturers are meeting with their Galaxy S24 Ultra which recently survived an incredible 4000-meter fall!

    Unrivaled Durability: Galaxy S24 Ultra Shines!

    Frank Carballido shared an extraordinary incident on social media: during his skydiving excursion, Frank accidentally dropped his Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra phone from 1200 feet (4000 meters). While this seemed disastrous for its survival, an unexpected twist emerged through Find My Device; Frank was amazed to find his phone was still operational after using Find My Device feature!

    Frank anticipated the worst when his $1,199 Galaxy S24 Ultra was dropped, hoping for at least minimal repairable damage to save it from complete ruination. To his shock and amazement though, when his phone emerged completely undamaged! Not due solely to its inherent durability; closer analysis showed how protective case and screen protector had also contributed greatly in keeping this miracle going!

    As it turned out, it appeared that the phone landed softly on leafy ground cushioned by trees; thus limiting any damages. While its resilience in withstanding an impactful fall from an airplane was commendable, it highlighted the significance of using protective accessories like cases and screen protectors to safeguard devices worth investing in.