The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is one of the company’s most advanced foldable phones, but an XDA Developers discussion has raised questions about the long-term durability of its hinge.
An XDA member reported that after just eight months of using the Fold7, the hinge had become noticeably looser than when the phone was new. The owner expected some loosening but was disappointed that it had reached the point where the phone could “flop” closed at around a 30-degree angle. More concerning for him was the comparison with his previous Galaxy Z Fold3, whose hinge reportedly remained durable for more than three years.
I personally use a Fold 6 and it has been holding pretty well after 2 years of heavy use.
Another member noted that the Fold7 uses a different hinge design from previous Galaxy Fold models, potentially making the experience different from older generations.
However, not every Fold7 owner is reporting the same issue. One user said he had been averaging approximately 71 folds per day and had not noticed any significant loosening of his hinge. This is done using a play store app called Fold Count.
Interestingly, another owner said he had noticed similar loosening on his original Fold7. After his device was replaced following water damage, he found that the replacement unit had a noticeably sturdier hinge.
The discussion therefore doesn’t prove that the Galaxy Z Fold7 has a widespread hinge defect. Experiences among owners appear to vary, with some reporting noticeable changes and others experiencing no problems despite heavy use.
Still, eight months is a relatively short period for a premium foldable’s hinge to become significantly looser. As more Fold7 owners accumulate a year or more of usage, their experiences should provide a clearer picture of whether this is simply normal wear, unit-to-unit variation, or something Samsung needs to address.
For now, prospective buyers shouldn’t panic, but long-term hinge durability is certainly something worth watching on the Galaxy Z Fold7.