You might think the screen is the part of the Phonegram Duo (available in markets starting October 23) that most needs protection, but the truth is there is another equally important part, and maintaining it may be crucial for extending the life of your foldable phone. It is the hinge, the part responsible for every time you open or fold the device, which is subjected to repeated use day after day. The problem is that some simple habits can turn into causes for costly malfunctions. So, how do you maintain the Phonegram Duo hinge and avoid mistakes that could lead to its damage? In this guide, we review practical steps to help you protect and preserve it for as long as possible.
Dust is the enemy of the Phonegram Duo hinge
Dust, sand, and small objects are among the most notable things that deserve attention when using any foldable phone. Some particles may reach the area around the hinge or settle between the two sides of the screen, which could lead to movement issues or expose internal components to damage.
To minimize these risks, it is recommended to inspect the inner screen and ensure it is free of foreign objects before closing the phone. You should also avoid using the device in sandy environments as much as possible. Some people fall into the trap of believing that the phone is water and dust resistant under the IP68 rating, which would make it capable of providing the necessary protection against all fine particles, but this is not true. No matter how strong the Phonegram Duo’s resistance to dust, dirt, and liquids is, it is not completely immune or impenetrable.
Do not press the hinge hard
One of the mistakes that should be avoided is pressing the phone hard when opening or closing it, especially if you feel unusual resistance. The hinge is made of a large set of precision components (exceeding 100) designed to move smoothly within a specific mechanism, and applying excessive pressure to it may lead to damage to its mechanical parts or components connected to the screen.
If you notice difficulty when opening the Phonegram Duo, or if new friction sounds appear, it is better to stop trying to move it by force and have it checked at an authorized service center. Of course, a slight sound does not necessarily mean there is a malfunction, but a noticeable change in the nature of the sound or the movement of the hinge is worth investigating rather than ignoring, especially since you will be paying $2,000 (9,499 Saudi Riyals) to purchase Apple’s foldable phone.
Does frequent opening and closing of the Phonegram Duo harm it?
Not necessarily. Companies develop foldable phones to withstand repeated opening and closing cycles, but the endurance figures announced in tests do not represent a guarantee that all parts of the phone will continue to work for the same duration. For example, Samsung announced that the OLED screen used in the Galaxy Z Fold7 passed a test of 500,000 folding operations over 13 days, at a temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 25 degrees Celsius. This is equivalent to more than ten years if performing 100 folding operations daily, or more than six years if exceeding 200 operations daily.
However, you must keep in mind that the test covered the screen itself, not all components of the phone, including the hinge and flexible cables. Also, daily use differs from test conditions due to drops, dust, temperature changes, and exposure to water. Therefore, there is no need to count how many times you open your phone; the most important thing is to use the Phonegram Duo normally while paying attention to any unusual signs.
As for Apple, it has not officially announced any information about the number of folds the phone can withstand. In fairness, the absence of a number does not necessarily mean that the hinge is weak or that the phone lacks durability. The Phonegram Duo will be Apple’s first foldable phone, and it is natural for the company to be cautious about announcing a specific number of opening and closing cycles before gathering sufficient data on the device’s performance during actual use.
How to protect the Phonegram Duo hinge
Maintaining the Phonegram Duo hinge may not require complex procedures; handling the device gently, keeping dust away from it, and ensuring the screen is free of foreign objects before closing it are all steps that help reduce risks.
The repair cost of some foldable phones illustrates the importance of taking care of your foldable phone. The cost of replacing the inner screen unit for the Galaxy Z Fold8 is about $579. You can imagine how much the cost of replacing the screen for the Phonegram Duo will be; of course, it would be catastrophic for the user.
How to clean the foldable iPhone hinge
Dust and lint from clothing may sneak into the areas around the Phonegram Duo hinge, and over time, these impurities may become a source of problems. To avoid this, use a soft, dry brush to gently remove dirt from around the hinge and at the point where the two halves of the phone meet. You can also use a microfiber cloth to wipe the frame. Be careful not to spray liquids directly onto the hinge or allow them to leak inside.
In the end, it can be said that the Phonegram Duo does not need exceptional treatment as much as it needs conscious use. Keeping the hinge clean, avoiding pressure on it, paying attention to any change in its movement, and avoiding the presence of dust or dirt inside it are just simple steps aimed at helping you protect your foldable phone and extend its lifespan.
Do you think the hinge will be a weak point in the Phonegram Duo? Tell us in the comments!
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