Early impressions of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra put us in anticipation of the design and performance. Typically, durability is a concern, considering Samsung phones are expensive to maintain. But the flagship looked promising, from the satin-finish aluminum, Gorilla Armor display, and titanium frame. Corning even put the screen to a lab test, called the “Scratch Bot,” and demonstrated the Gorilla Armor's exceptional scratch resistance.
Yet, with all that fortification, your phone isn’t as strong as you think. Independent drop tests from Allstate Protection Plans, PBKreviews, and others show that the S24 smartphone shatters after a single six-foot drop. It’s disappointing, considering that its S23 predecessor went almost “scot-free on the front” after similar tests, according to Android Police.
How the Galaxy S24 Ultra Failed A Major Drop Test
There are no universal criteria for a phone to pass a drop test. But typically, most reviewers look out for cosmetic damage, the number of drops, functionality, and even long-term performance. Phones may pass if their screens still work and escape huge cracks following falls from designated heights.
For example, waist or head height and diverse surfaces like concrete, asphalt, or carpet. If all or most buttons, ports, and sensors also work properly, the phone scores bonus points.
Allstate Protection Plans (formerly SquareTrade) is one of such reviewers. It’s a company that provides extended warranties and protection plans for electronics and appliances. Recently, they performed a drop test on the Galaxy S24 series and released the results on their YouTube channel.
But why have such reviews set the standard for phone breakability tests?
You could say that manufacturer-conducted tests like Corning’s may prioritize favorable outcomes. No one wants to say their product isn’t good, after all. It’s important to note that drop tests like APP’s are conducted by third-parties, aiming for objectivity and transparency.
The Drop Test In Details
In the first phase of the test, they dropped the standard S24 from the front down at a height of six feet. The phone suffered a shattered screen and a raised and loose glass from the bezel. The S24 Plus suffered worse as the screen shattered and detached from the frame. The S24 Ultra shattered its screen, the glass was raised, and the frame edges were scraped. All three phones were unusable after.
Compared to the previous S23 series, only the base model was unusable. The S23 Plus and Ultra were fully operational. Hence, they passed the test.
In the second phase of the test, APP dropped the phones on their backs. The S24’s rear glass got cracked and raised. The camera housing also suffered scuff marks. The S24 Plus experienced the same trauma, except the camera lenses were cracked. Likewise, the S24 Ultra shattered its back and missed a few glasses. Compared to the S23 Ultra that got away with mere hairline cracks, it’s a lot of damage.
Add An Extra Layer Of Protection To Your Phone
The results from the drop test hint at adding an extra layer of protection to your phone. Even phones with relatively durable builds can sustain damage from drops, particularly on hard surfaces. While you can take proactive steps, like minimizing multitasking and avoiding using it in motion, you may be caught off guard sometimes and drop them. Screen protectors and heavy-duty cases can absorb some of the impact, reducing the destruction of delicate phones.
