The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is perhaps one of the foremost complex smartphones within the market today. Additionally to the flexible screen and, therefore, the hinge that keeps it together, this year’s foldable device also introduces IPX8 waterproof rating and an under-display (or under-panel) camera. All of those contribute to a tool that must be tightly and securely packed, which, unfortunately, also means it’ll be a pain to require apart and repair.
Samsung’s foldable phones have always been more complex than normal phones. That was true even for the first-gen Galaxy Fold that didn’t have a complicated hinge or any water resistance rating in the least. However, with more features packed into the Galaxy Z Fold 3, there’s less space to cram all the hardware that permits those features, leading to a more complicated arrangement of screws and cables.
PBKreviews took the primary plunge in trying to require the Galaxy Z Fold 3 apart while ensuring that it’ll still work when reassembled. From the get-go, it had already been a tedious process since you’ve got to get rid of the external Cover Display first, something that’s usually done last with normal, single-screen phones. And then, there are the plethora of screws make it even more tedious to level and put the phone back together.
Luckily, there are no surprises and hidden traps inside, and therefore the Galaxy Z Fold 3’s components are more or less exactly as advertised. The teardown doesn’t enter the hinge or the main interior screen, which could destroy the phone.
PBKreviews gives the Galaxy Z Fold 3 a rather low score of two out of 10 when it involves repairability, which isn’t surprising. The foldable device’s increased durability and IPX8 rating could a minimum of help it survive a touch longer, but accidents do happen. Hopefully, your purchase will accompany a case and a few special warranties for your peace of mind.