A Pixel Fold Died and the Bezels May Be the Culprit Here

In recent news, the Google Pixel Fold has garnered attention with its unique folding capability, external screen, and advanced camera features. However, the initial reviews of the device have raised concerns about its functionality and the justifiability of its hefty price tag of $1,800. One reviewer reported a display failure after just four days of use, casting doubt on the device's durability and design.

A Closer Look at the Display Failure

According to Ron Amadeo from Ars Technica, the inner OLED screen of their Pixel Fold malfunctioned within a remarkably short span of four days. Interestingly, they did not handle the device roughly, leading to speculation about the root cause of the issue.

Initially, the reviewer noticed that the bottom ten pixels ceased functioning, followed by the left portion of the screen becoming unresponsive to touch input. Over time, a white gradient started to appear, progressively spreading upward across the screen.

The Role of Protective Layers

The Pixel Fold features a 7.6-inch inner screen with Ultra Thin Glass and a non-removable plastic layer on top. This protective layer is designed to safeguard the screen from scratches and external damage.

Upon closer inspection, Amadeo discovered that the plastic layer does not extend fully to the bezels, leaving a small exposed area between it and the raised bezels. Dust particles seemed to have become trapped in this exposed area, and when the phone was folded, the debris caused damage to the OLED screen.

The important thing to mention is that Amadeo didn't feel any physical impact on the device. They had to carefully inspect it with a magnifying glass to discover a tiny nick near the area where the screen first started having issues.

Design Flaw in the Bezel

While this display failure could be attributed to a stroke of bad luck, it appears that Google made a design oversight in the bezels of the Pixel Fold. The problem lies in the height of the bezel, which is the same as that of the protector. Consequently, when the phone is folded, the left and right portions of the screens almost touch, leaving little room for debris to be trapped.

In comparison, most other manufacturers of foldable phones have slightly raised bezels to create a small gap between the two halves of the screen. This design choice prevents trapped debris from causing damage to the delicate OLED display.

Google has already advised users that flexible screens are more delicate than conventional phone displays and emphasized the need to avoid contact with sand, crumbs, and sharp objects.

This situation is undoubtedly concerning for individuals interested in getting the device, as spending $1,800 only to end up with an expensive paperweight after a few days is far from ideal.

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Image Credit: Ars Technica