Apple has crossed a significant threshold in the technology world with its new foldable phone, the iPhone Duo. The company has raised the standards of durability in this area by offering an IP68 rating on foldable phones.

Samsung has long been working to prevent water and dust ingress in its foldable devices. This process, which started with IPX8 in the Galaxy Z Fold 3 model, reached the IP48 level with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the new Galaxy Z Fold 8.

The difference between IP68 and IP48 in foldable devices

The number 4 in the IP48 certification indicates that the device is protected against solid objects larger than 1 millimeter. In contrast, Apple’s IP68 certification for the iPhone Duo model indicates that the device is completely dustproof.

There are also significant differences between the two devices in terms of water resistance. The iPhone Duo can stand water up to 6 meters deep for 30 minutes.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, on the other hand, provides water resistance up to 1.5 meters deep. The hinge structure of foldable phones creates a highly sensitive area to dust ingress.

Small particles can seep through the hinge gaps over time and accumulate behind the screen panel. This can lead to permanent damage or surface deterioration in foldable screens.

This problem has been largely brought under control in modern IP48-certified Samsung models. However, Apple’s achievement of IP68 directly in its first foldable model pushes the boundaries of engineering standards in the sector.

Apple’s move serves as a valuable example in terms of protecting the internal components of foldable phones. Dust resistance plays a critical role in these devices, which are particularly vulnerable due to their hinge design.

Future Competition and Expectations

Samsung is expected to switch to IP68 certification for its foldable devices in the coming period. Whether the company will implement this move in next year’s models is not yet clear.

How Samsung will respond to this competition is being closely followed by technology enthusiasts. Apple’s move has also raised expectations for durability in the foldable phone market.

It is predicted that the engineering race between companies in this area will directly affect the user experience. Increasing durability standards can also extend the daily lifespan of foldable devices.

Samsung’s transition from IP48 to IP68 is considered a part of the maturation process of foldable phone technology. Apple’s success creates a new point of reference for other manufacturers in the sector.

As a result, this difference in water and dust resistance of foldable phones may influence users’ device choices. How do you think Apple’s move will affect competition in the foldable phone market?