Square Trade has rigorously tested Samsung’s latest smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S9 and the Galaxy S9 Plus. These tests are designed to evaluate the durability and resilience of the devices under various conditions. The two handsets were subjected to a series of tests, including multiple drop tests, a bend test, a tumble test, and more.
Drop Tests and Results
As we can see from the video, both the glass back and the front glass display broke during the drop tests. These tests simulate real-world scenarios where the phone might slip from your hand or fall from a table. The drop tests are crucial because they reveal how the phone’s design holds up under sudden impacts. The Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus, with their sleek all-glass designs, unfortunately, did not fare well in these tests. The glass shattered upon impact, highlighting a significant vulnerability in the design.
Additional Durability Tests
The other tests that the handsets were put through are a little more extreme than the standard drop tests. For instance, the bend test checks the phone’s ability to withstand pressure without bending or breaking. This is particularly important for users who might accidentally sit on their phones or keep them in tight pockets. The tumble test, on the other hand, simulates the phone being tossed around in a dryer-like environment, which can happen if the phone falls down a flight of stairs or gets knocked around in a bag.
SquareTrade’s VP Jason Siciliano commented on the results, saying, “With the Samsung S9 and S9+, and the iPhone X last year, we’re continuing to see a trend of beautiful all-glass designs that come with a high price tag and high risk of damage from drops and mishaps. Our tests and claims data show that even when in cases, they still experience damage. So, while water resistance has improved across the board, all of that glass means that durability has actually gone backward over the past year.”
This statement underscores a critical point: while manufacturers are making strides in certain areas like water resistance, the shift towards all-glass designs has introduced new challenges in terms of durability. The aesthetic appeal of glass is undeniable, but it comes at the cost of increased fragility.
Implications for Consumers
For consumers, these findings are significant. The high cost of these devices means that repairs can be expensive. A broken screen or back panel can set you back hundreds of dollars, and even with insurance, the inconvenience and cost can be substantial. Therefore, investing in a high-quality protective case and screen protector is more important than ever. While these accessories can’t make your phone indestructible, they can provide an additional layer of protection that might save you from costly repairs.
Moreover, the trend towards glass designs raises questions about the future of smartphone durability. Will manufacturers find a way to combine the beauty of glass with the resilience of more durable materials? Only time will tell. In the meantime, consumers need to be aware of the trade-offs and take steps to protect their investments.
In conclusion, while the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus are undoubtedly impressive in terms of design and features, their durability leaves something to be desired. The tests conducted by SquareTrade provide valuable insights into the real-world resilience of these devices, highlighting the need for caution and additional protective measures.
Source Square Trade
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