The Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 are IPX8 rated, where the ‘X’ means no protection against dust or granular substances. So the devices aren’t dust resistant.
Earlier, there were rumors about the latest foldables being IP58 rated, suggesting that Samsung’s latest foldables would finally be protected against dust. However, the launch revealed that they are the same as before in terms of ingress protection, and we will probably have to wait for at least the 6th generation of foldables to be dust-protected.
How dust can cause problems to your new foldable device?
The hinge mechanism, and especially the inner display, is prone to damage due to dust or larger granular particles.
For example, if these substances get inside the hinge, they may cause wear and tear on the moving parts as you open and close the device. Although there are fine brushes inside the hinge to prevent dust from getting in, there is no official dust resistance rating to ensure safety.
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5 finally bring a gapless hinge design, and very little space remains between the folded inner display. So, if there is a grain of sand or something similar left while you are closing the device, it may poke through the display and potentially cause damage.
Even fine dust particles can cause scratches on the soft surface of the inner display as you continue to use it over time. Therefore, it’s important to keep your shiny new foldable device away from dust.
What measures should you take to protect it from dust/sand?
When you are somewhere with a lot of granular particles, like on a beach, be sure not to drop the device on them. However, if it comes in contact with them, gently clean off the sand particles, especially from the hinge area, before opening or closing the device.
The same applies to protecting the inner display from scratches or damages caused by granular particles. Be sure not to leave any of them on the inner display before closing it.
