Battery Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold goes up in smoke during test JerryRigEverything
“Never happened before.”
No one is more careless with their phones than Zach from JerryRigEverything. But it's for a good cause, because it's how we learn which phones are built to last and which ones aren't. Now, foldable phones already don't have the best reputation because of all the moving parts, but this test of the 10 Pro Fold doesn't really help either.
Because halfway through the bending test of the new Pixel 10 Pro Fold, things go spectacularly wrong. The battery catches fire. This is the first time this has happened during JerryRigEverything's rigorous testing. But if previous tests of the Google Fold are to be believed that was only a matter of time.
Google actually places the antenna lines in a rather vulnerable place; halfway down the right side and right above the battery. Anyone who places much, much, force there is guaranteed to break the device. And since the battery is also right there, it runs the risk of breaking along with it. And that is exactly what happens during Zach's bending test.
Not the best advertisement for foldables
Now phone batteries won't break easily, let alone sensationally catch fire like they did with the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold. It's just not a good advertisement for foldables in general. The screen is already more fragile thanks to its pliability, and the hinge is more susceptible to dust and water.
Zach has been warning about the Pixel Folds' vulnerable antenna line for years, and he was somewhat surprised that it was in the same spot on the 10 Pro Fold as well. Google did provide a stronger hinge this year but anyone who accidentally sits on the device will be of little use; in that case, inexorably, the weakest link breaks first.
Most durable foldable ever
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold fails the bend test and earns the ignoble title of least durable foldable that Zach has ever tested. It is also the first phone that Zach saw go up in smoke, and that while he conducted the same test on many other phones. What does this mean for future buyers of the Pro Fold? You're not at acute risk but our advice is not to sit on it when it's unfolded.
