I Took My Foldable Phone to the Beach – You Won’t Believe What Happened!

When I received my Samsung Fold, I was quite happy. A folding phone? It seemed like something from out of the future. Love tech and adventure, hence I decided to bring my brand-new foldable phone to the shore. I had no idea, though, this choice would practically cost me my pricey gadget.

Like most people, I wanted to document enjoyable times with friends, grab some incredible beach photographs, and enjoy my day free from concerns. But a few hours later, I understood that the best plan is not to bring a foldable phone to the beach.

Here’s what happened and some knowledge you should have before bringing your Samsung Fold next to water and sand.

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The Hidden Risks of Beach Foldable Phone Use

1. Sand: The Quiet Phone Killer

Everything first seemed to be in order. While unwinding, I shot a few photos, captured slow-moving waves, and even streamed some music. Eventually, though, I discovered small sand grains sneaking inside the hinge of my Samsung Fold. Though I attempted to dismiss it, damage had already begun.

• Though you cannot see it, sand is quite fine and can creep into the hinge of the phone.
• The Fold opened and closed, felt roughness in the motion.
• A few more folds and I started hearing a faint grinding noise from the hinge.

I started to get terrified. I understood that if sand got inside, it may either totally jam the folding mechanism or harm the fragile screen.

2. Water: An Affair with Risk

I didn’t want to push my Samsung Fold‘s limits even if it has an IPX8 water-resistant rating. Still, mishaps happen.

• Running, a friend unintentionally splashed water close to my phone.
• A few drops of sea water fell across the screen.
• I promptly cleaned it, however, I could see watermarks close to the hinge.

Because saltwater may corrode phones internally, it is significantly worse than ordinary water. Luckily, I didn’t drop my Samsung Fold in the water, but even a tiny bit of moisture close to the hinge can be hazardous.

3. Sunlight and Overheating

The speed with which the Samsung Fold might heat under direct sunlight was another factor I overlooked.

• About ten minutes of the phone laying on my towel, I took it up and it was burning hot.
• The internal temperature alarm went off, hence I had to instantly put the phone in shade.
• Overheating can eventually lower battery life and slow down performance.

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How I Saved My Foldable Phone (And What You Should Do)?

1. Hinge Care: Thoroughly Clean

• To get any loose sand bits, I softly shook the phone upside down.
• Cleaned around the hinge area with a gentle brush.
• I later purchased a compressed air can to eliminate any last sand bits.

2. Correctly Drying the Phone

• I kept the phone dry for a few hours even though there was not much water damage.
• I stayed away from a hairdryer since heat can ruin the screen.
• When I examined the hinge movement some time later, fortunately, it was smooth once more.

3. Making Future Use of a Protective Case

I know my lesson now. The next time I bring my Samsung Fold to the beach—or any dangerous location—I will:

✔️ Put on a waterproof and dustproof case.
✔️ Steer clear of burying the phone straight on sand.
✔️ Stow it in a zip-lock bag when not in use.

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After All, Should You Bring Your Foldable Phone to the Beach?

To be honest, unless you’re quite careful, I would not advise it. Though they seem robust, foldable phones are sensitive and include moving components that would readily break from heat, water, or sand.

Should you bring your Samsung Fold to the beach, use these guidelines:

✔️ Always employ a protective case.
✔️ As much as possible, keep it free from water and sand.
✔️ Steer clear of direct sunshine to ward off overheating.
✔️ Should sand enter, clean it right away.

This time I was lucky; next time I will consider twice before carrying my foldable phone close to the beach.

Regarding you: Has your phone ever presented such a problem? Tell me right in the comments!