Burn-in dilemma - Google Pixel XL Questions & Answers

Just picked up a refurb XL and, predictably, the navbar burn-in is fairly significant. I assume this is true for the vast majority of XLs out there in the wild that have been used for any length of time.
A couple questions:
1. I believe either the 8.0 or 8.1 update introduced some kind of alternating colors for the navbar to mitigate burn-in? If this is true, is it really the period that XLs were on 7.x when most of the burn-in happened -- meaning if you got a pristine screen now and started off with 8.x right away, you'd be in the clear, meaning normal usage won't ever result in significant navbar burn-in?
2. Is there any hope of RMAing to Google for burn-in if you bought it secondhand? Is there an easy way to check whether it was originally purchased from the Goog Store vs. elsewhere?

I think you are vastly over estimating how many pixels have burn in. Significant burn in simply is not caused by normal use... Maybe it was a display phone or something.

lafester said:
I think you are vastly over estimating how many pixels have burn in. Significant burn in simply is not caused by normal use... Maybe it was a display phone or something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even for the persistent on screen buttons? It only makes sense that those will burn in over a long period of normal use, at least without special software tricks.
Mine has moderate burn-in where the navbar is when I view fullscreen videos, but none visible anywhere else on the screen. I found a few older threads here where many people report the same issue, in some cases after only weeks of normal use.

Mine is a 2016 pixel with no burn in. I've seen a couple old posts about it but nothing suggesting every pixel has extreme burn in issues.

Mine doesn't have it either, I don't think it's normal unless you sit your phone down for hours with the same thing on the screen. These phones are built to withstand normal and even heavy use.

Had mine just over a year and have burn in on the Nav bar only slightly but noticed on a clean img only used this devices for normal use don't leave the display on that much never for like 15+ mins at a time only devices with amoled I've had burn in

lafester said:
I think you are vastly over estimating how many pixels have burn in. Significant burn in simply is not caused by normal use... Maybe it was a display phone or something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not at all. I had a Pixel XL bought in December 2016 - I had to RMA due to burn in issues, I had a new one sent out to me in June 2017 and the screen has burned in on that - i've had to live with this. I'm a moderate user, I usually watch a lot of twitch streams which immerses the display.
I believe Google has seen the numbers of the screen burn on both Pixel phones and made a software change with gestures in Android 9.0 - this in itself is bad for anyone who has it because we're now going to see the burn in even more in my opinion.
It's a fundamental flaw with Pixel devices - the average user probably isn't even aware that they have it, but it's definitely an issue.

Try to contact with them via chat which is integrated with pixel device!
I said them that I bough the device used without receipt and they offered me a replacement solution l..
They was gonna replace my device with new one because of WiFi problem but apparently I live in Cyprus and they can not cover me under warranty because there is not an authorised google service center (there is an HTC one but no luck either) so I did DIY by adding some plastic cards and now it’s working just fine!)

Status bar burn in here. I think it's unavoidable.

dimitrispas22 said:
Try to contact with them via chat which is integrated with pixel device!
I said them that I bough the device used without receipt and they offered me a replacement solution l..
They was gonna replace my device with new one because of WiFi problem but apparently I live in Cyprus and they can not cover me under warranty because there is not an authorised google service center (there is an HTC one but no luck either) so I did DIY by adding some plastic cards and now it’s working just fine!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried this, but as I have a crack on the back glass, it is going to charge me an excess fee - if I claim on my insurance over here it's a £100 excess and guaranteed either a new phone or cash equivalent in 48hrs . So beware if you have any damage other than the screen burn they'll claim it voids the warranty even if it's unrelated to the burn in issues.

droid_1989 said:
I tried this, but as I have a crack on the back glass, it is going to charge me an excess fee - if I claim on my insurance over here it's a £100 excess and guaranteed either a new phone or cash equivalent in 48hrs . So beware if you have any damage other than the screen burn they'll claim it voids the warranty even if it's unrelated to the burn in issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do a DIY and fix the back glass yourself see jerryrigeverything chanel for replacment and be careful not to scratch the metall and get one with preinstalled adhesive!
Hope it works!

dimitrispas22 said:
Do a DIY and fix the back glass yourself see jerryrigeverything chanel for replacment and be careful not to scratch the metall and get one with preinstalled adhesive!
Hope it works!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For the price of an insurance job, and me looking to get the oneplus 6, there's no real point tbh.
May get the Pixel 3 in October too.

droid_1989 said:
For the price of an insurance job, and me looking to get the oneplus 6, there's no real point tbh.
May get the Pixel 3 in October too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great idea!
What are your thoughts about pixel's notch?
(I think it gonna be huge . )

dimitrispas22 said:
Great idea!
What are your thoughts about pixel's notch?
(I think it gonna be huge . )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think the notch will go away any time soon, for me it doesn't bother me. I suspect we will see it on a tablet soon too.

dimitrispas22 said:
Try to contact with them via chat which is integrated with pixel device!
I said them that I bough the device used without receipt and they offered me a replacement solution l..
They was gonna replace my device with new one because of WiFi problem but apparently I live in Cyprus and they can not cover me under warranty because there is not an authorised google service center (there is an HTC one but no luck either) so I did DIY by adding some plastic cards and now it’s working just fine!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried chat but they said the warranty expired late last year, so no luck.
Looks to me like it's almost impossible to get a new XL these days, and almost all used ones are going to have the burn in. What a shame that they produced relatively few units for how many people wanted this device, creating short supply and an awful market for late adopters looking for a deal. I'm not interested in the 2 XL unless it gets down to around half its current cost -- too many compromises with the display, no headphone, etc. to justify $700+ for me.

Me too
ominousnimbus said:
Tried chat but they said the warranty expired late last year, so no luck.
Looks to me like it's almost impossible to get a new XL these days, and almost all used ones are going to have the burn in. What a shame that they produced relatively few units for how many people wanted this device, creating short supply and an awful market for late adopters looking for a deal. I'm not interested in the 2 XL unless it gets down to around half its current cost -- too many compromises with the display, no headphone, etc. to justify $700+ for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am in your shoes too (a bit)...Bought a refurbed Pixel XL last week from Amazon..Have fairly faint, but existent navbar burn in...I have e-mailed the seller on Amazon and they asked for pictures, but even if I get a replacement phone, will that have burn-in also?
Google chat yielded no results as they wouldn't give me any warranty info since I'm not the original buyer.
I am super picky about this kind of stuff, and my Nexus 6 and moto 360 tormented me with burn-in, but I got this phone for like $225...I might just try to forget about it, and enjoy the life I get from it.

smokinjoe2122 said:
I am in your shoes too (a bit)...Bought a refurbed Pixel XL last week from Amazon..Have fairly faint, but existent navbar burn in...I have e-mailed the seller on Amazon and they asked for pictures, but even if I get a replacement phone, will that have burn-in also?
Google chat yielded no results as they wouldn't give me any warranty info since I'm not the original buyer.
I am super picky about this kind of stuff, and my Nexus 6 and moto 360 tormented me with burn-in, but I got this phone for like $225...I might just try to forget about it, and enjoy the life I get from it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, also got mine from the Amazon refurb listing. I'd be fine with it for the price if not for this stupid burn in thing. I'm trying to get over it, but seems like it's going to be a real factor for things like fullscreen video/movies, VR, etc. And to make it worse, with Goog pushing toward gesture navigation in Android P, the navbar will no longer have the same outline... we may be seeing the burn in constantly instead of just in those full screen situations.

ominousnimbus said:
Yep, also got mine from the Amazon refurb listing. I'd be fine with it for the price if not for this stupid burn in thing. I'm trying to get over it, but seems like it's going to be a real factor for things like fullscreen video/movies, VR, etc. And to make it worse, with Goog pushing toward gesture navigation in Android P, the navbar will no longer have the same outline... we may be seeing the burn in constantly instead of just in those full screen situations.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think after demoing P in Android Studio, gestures are merely optional to turn on, so hopefully, the navbar stays (I think I'd prefer the navbar anyways).... but, I'll let you know what the Amazon seller comes back with. The only time I REALLY see it is during bootup white screen, and specific wallpaper colors
Edit: The seller on Amazon is offering a replacement after photos. Hopefully I can get a phone before I send this one back, and hopefully it won't have burn-in.

smokinjoe2122 said:
I am in your shoes too (a bit)...Bought a refurbed Pixel XL last week from Amazon..Have fairly faint, but existent navbar burn in...I have e-mailed the seller on Amazon and they asked for pictures, but even if I get a replacement phone, will that have burn-in also?
Google chat yielded no results as they wouldn't give me any warranty info since I'm not the original buyer.
I am super picky about this kind of stuff, and my Nexus 6 and moto 360 tormented me with burn-in, but I got this phone for like $225...I might just try to forget about it, and enjoy the life I get from it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
chat again with them and tell them that you don't have the receipt and the box. I said to them that I bought it used from someone else and they offered me a replacement if I am able to sent in to a person who lives in the UK and sent it directly to them ..don't listen only one agent try 2-3 times until they offer you the best solution they can ....since I wasn't able to get the offer since I am in Cyprus and I am 16 years old I did DIY and fixed my wifi problem myself
PS. have burned in on navbar but it's not a big deal since isn't too much noticeable!
and the best thing for me I love stock android and fast updates but where I live all people are using Samsung and iPhone (my friends saying that I am crazy because of that:crying::laugh
anyway, good luck!

So as an update, they said they'd replace my phone, but I had to send into them, then they'd send me a new one. I'm not going 10 days without a phone, so I am sending this one back, and just ordered another one. Hopefully, my new one won't have burn-in also.

Related

[Q] Certified Like New Replacement from Verizon

For those of you who have gotten replacements from verizon what was the condition of the replacement or how many replacements have you gone through? Were the replacements in worse condition than what you already had? My nexus doesn't have super serious issues but I do have data connectivity issues compared to my droid charge. The nexus is much slower and gets much worse signal. I also have a loose charging port and a dead pixel near the center of the screen. Cosmetically though it's perfect. I'm just worried about the possibility of getting something worse than what I already have. Would love some advice here from others experiences.
It's a gamble with CLNR's as it is with getting a new box out of the phone. You pretty much can get one of the following as a CLNR. 1.) Extra phones set aside by the manufacturer for warranty exchanges since initially there are no refurbs 2.) Someone's WFG return 3.) Completely refurbished device that probably had some physical hardware defect. If you're luck you'll get a device from #1 and #2 and those tend to have less problems. I've gotten craptacular refurbs from VZW before, especially with the T-bolt. Six CLNR T-bolts form VZW: 2 had scratches on the screen and they were quite visable too, 3 had screens that had corners sticking out (one even was sent to a t2 call center to have them check it out and they still sent it to me like that), the 6th one was DOA.
I got a CLNR Nexus as a replacement and there are no issues so far. I think I lucked out and got a newer device w/ a build date of 3/17 or so I believe. I looked at the screws and none of them have seem to be removed. So I lucked out and got a manufacturer spare . All I gotta say is good luck! VZW's quality control is questionable at best at times. Honestly in your situation I would go for a replacement.. lose charging port can't be good, and I'd be driven insane by a dead pixel.
Thanks for the advice I think it might be worth it to try if a worse phone comes I can always send it right back to them. The dead pixel is pretty small because the screen is such a high resolution but "luckily" I have really good vision and it sticks out like a sore thumb right near the middle of the screen especially when on a white when web browsing.

screen burn in...

Hello guys, been fan of the google phones since nexus 5 and didn't have a chance to get one because there is no google store or any store with officially support to sell pixel phones. So i decided to get used one for 155 bucks... And i am disappointed, can't believe that guy that sold me this device didn't noticed screen burn in.. of course he will not accept refound, and on pictures from online store where i found this one it was impossible to notice that... My question is, is it worth to buy a new screen sice they are really expensive and it is difficult to replace it.. or use this phone just like it is till i decide to buy a new one... Any advice will be appreciated..
Beside this screen problem, i think pixel 2xl is great device, and man, i missed that stock android experience...it flies even it is almost 3 years old...
Edit: and screen burn in doesn't bother me so much, but this yellowish screen is really noticable... Screen image is like i have constantly night mode enabled...
And what can cause this defections of screen in this device...if it will come again with the new one it is definitely not worth to replace the screen..
krokanic said:
Hello guys, been fan of the google phones since nexus 5 and didn't have a chance to get one because there is no google store or any store with officially support to sell pixel phones. So i decided to get used one for 155 bucks... And i am disappointed, can't believe that guy that sold me this device didn't noticed screen burn in.. of course he will not accept refound, and on pictures from online store where i found this one it was impossible to notice that... My question is, is it worth to buy a new screen sice they are really expensive and it is difficult to replace it.. or use this phone just like it is till i decide to buy a new one... Any advice will be appreciated..
Beside this screen problem, i think pixel 2xl is great device, and man, i missed that stock android experience...it flies even it is almost 3 years old...
Edit: and screen burn in doesn't bother me so much, but this yellowish screen is really noticable... Screen image is like i have constantly night mode enabled...
And what can cause this defections of screen in this device...if it will come again with the new one it is definitely not worth to replace the screen..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for your bad luck, man.
I had bought a Pixel 2 XL back in February and recently dropped it, shattering the top of the screen. I thought about replacing the screen, but, since a screen replacement would cost just as much as another phone, I went ahead and found another one on eBay. The only complaint I have about the replacement I got is that it seems the battery has degraded more than the original one; 75% on the replacement and 95% on the original. I'm sure I'll have to replace the battery at some point.
The screen doesn't seem too difficult to replace though it does look like there are some sensitive spots you have to watch out for when disassembling.
If it's an option, I would bring it somewhere to get repaired, like Ubreakifix.
Ragarianok said:
Sorry for your bad luck, man.
I had bought a Pixel 2 XL back in February and recently dropped it, shattering the top of the screen. I thought about replacing the screen, but, since a screen replacement would cost just as much as another phone, I went ahead and found another one on eBay. The only complaint I have about the replacement I got is that it seems the battery has degraded more than the original one; 75% on the replacement and 95% on the original. I'm sure I'll have to replace the battery at some point.
The screen doesn't seem too difficult to replace though it does look like there are some sensitive spots you have to watch out for when disassembling.
If it's an option, I would bring it somewhere to get repaired, like Ubreakifix.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your answer...
I see that price for pixel 2 screen is almost half a price of 2xl screen, so one more bad luck i think.. and in my country, repair shops are sh..t.. they don't repair phones that are not popular here, and google devices for sure are not..and if they do repair, they don't take responsibility if they damaging something else..
On eBay, as you said, price for the screen is almost a price of the another phone..
And didn't know that model from 2017 have this screen burn in problems... If i knew that, surely i would be more careful with buying... Bro i was really happy to get a Pixel device
So i think best option is to wait for some cheap pixel 2xl screen or device with broken motherboard and replace it myself... Have some experience, replaced screen on htc m8 (never again) and replaced battery on htc u11, it was pretty easy...
I have the same burn in like yours but i get used to it actually also to mention i use fullscreen gestures rather than navbar buttons, recently i found an app called display tester it has a mode called black & white bars i played it for lile 15 mins & it reduced the burn in effect for some time, give it a try
Burn in h putt to be more precise burn out) is normal.
I bothered Google so hard that they send me a me one and forgot to asked the plants one to be returned.
Anyway, I'm using the one and my father the other one, no problem.
I'm using gestures and pimped them with gestureplus (play store)
The display is always a bit yellowish and overall too dark.
My mother has an old Pixel (first gen), which was manufactured by htc, and that one has a brilliant Samsung display
Nightf0x_007 said:
I have the same burn in like yours but i get used to it actually also to mention i use fullscreen gestures rather than navbar buttons, recently i found an app called display tester it has a mode called black & white bars i played it for lile 15 mins & it reduced the burn in effect for some time, give it a try
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am sceptical about this apps, because this is a hardware issue...but what can i lose... I'll give it a try..
krokanic said:
I am sceptical about this apps, because this is a hardware issue...but what can i lose... I'll give it a try..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes i agree with you but this app really worked with me, i open playstore dark mode its grey the whole screen looks uniform, the app slightly helps with the burn in for sometime actually
Nightf0x_007 said:
yes i agree with you but this app really worked with me, i open playstore dark mode its grey the whole screen looks uniform, the app slightly helps with the burn in for sometime actually
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didn't helped but thanks for advice anyway... I ran those apps for few hours and nothing changed... I see screen replacement is not that hard, only thing remaining is to find cheap fully working display...till that i must use the phone just how it is
krokanic said:
Hello guys, been fan of the google phones since nexus 5 and didn't have a chance to get one because there is no google store or any store with officially support to sell pixel phones. So i decided to get used one for 155 bucks... And i am disappointed, can't believe that guy that sold me this device didn't noticed screen burn in.. of course he will not accept refound, and on pictures from online store where i found this one it was impossible to notice that... My question is, is it worth to buy a new screen sice they are really expensive and it is difficult to replace it.. or use this phone just like it is till i decide to buy a new one... Any advice will be appreciated..
Beside this screen problem, i think pixel 2xl is great device, and man, i missed that stock android experience...it flies even it is almost 3 years old...
Edit: and screen burn in doesn't bother me so much, but this yellowish screen is really noticable... Screen image is like i have constantly night mode enabled...
And what can cause this defections of screen in this device...if it will come again with the new one it is definitely not worth to replace the screen..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a problem with all the Pixel 2 XL and every other phone that has OLED screen. Some get it worse then others. And since Google used lower quality screens its more prominent on them.
But i had burn in on my Galaxy S3 my Nexus 6p and my Pixel 2 XL (2 of them)
I worked for ATT Wireless and Verizon Wireless for about 6 years and saw it on so many phones. from Samsung LG Google etc.
krolla03 said:
This is a problem with all the Pixel 2 XL and every other phone that has OLED screen. Some get it worse then others. And since Google used lower quality screens its more prominent on them.
But i had burn in on my Galaxy S3 my Nexus 6p and my Pixel 2 XL (2 of them)
I worked for ATT Wireless and Verizon Wireless for about 6 years and saw it on so many phones. from Samsung LG Google etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could it be because of bad phone using... Because i had 10-15 devices, some was new some was used and never had this type of issue... And i use my phone a lot... But if i can expect this problem when i change the display it is better to buy another device...
krokanic said:
Could it be because of bad phone using... Because i had 10-15 devices, some was new some was used and never had this type of issue... And i use my phone a lot... But if i can expect this problem when i change the display it is better to buy another device...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This was an issue with the Pixel 2's from day 1.
Reporters and bloggers were tweeting they were having problems on launch day. It made google give out 2 year warranties on them in the beginning.
Google has always had an issue with screens all the way back to the Nexus 5. Esp when the phone is made by LG
krolla03 said:
This was an issue with the Pixel 2's from day 1.
Reporters and bloggers were tweeting they were having problems on launch day. It made google give out 2 year warranties on them in the beginning.
Google has always had an issue with screens all the way back to the Nexus 5. Esp when the phone is made by LG
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info, best option is to use custom kernel to try fix this yellowish screen with kcal... Really can't believe that phone that costed so much at the launch had such a bad issue.. wish i knew that before buying...
Just got mine for 99 bucks on ebay...MINT condition with a small burn in. Happens to be the "G" oogle symbol in the middle of the screen, very faint but it fits at least. couldn't be happier really.
nobreak1970 said:
Just got mine for 99 bucks on ebay...MINT condition with a small burn in. Happens to be the "G" oogle symbol in the middle of the screen, very faint but it fits at least. couldn't be happier really.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you know that it will come with burn in... I think 99 bucks is a little expensive for faulty screen...
krokanic said:
Did you know that it will come with burn in... I think 99 bucks is a little expensive for faulty screen...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep I did, but didn't know the extent. Took a big chance. Totally worth 99 bucks. Most of them "refurbished" therefore not rootable, are going for about 200+ still.
Darkmode and you can't see the burn in; "light mode" barely can see it. It's a verizon variant and ready to roll. I use Google FI and it, out of the box...was seamless to use with that service. The outside, chassis? MINT. Mint I say. Not even a micro scratch to be seen. It's almost like, judging by what the burn it says...it was a display unit in a small shop that never got actually touched by a finger.
Now that I think about it, there is no evidence it's a verizon variant. When I turned it on no verizon anything...no preinstalled VZW app, nothing. I updated it to 10, updated all apps on wifi, never asked for any VZW account or anything. Downloaded the FI app...and boom...esim was up and activated. Maybe the ebay seller thought it was a VZW one? I know Google made it pretty much in an unbranded state on VZW? Confirm anyone? lol anyway LOVE IT, until the 4a eventually comes out, then I'll get that.
UPDATE: yep a VZW variant...in dev options "allow OEM unlock" is greyed out. No biggie, no need for root imho with stock pixel experience. ADB sideloaded "11 Preview 4" and went smooth. It's nice.

Question Galaxy Z Fold 3 - Dimple / bend near top left corner.

So I just received my #Samsung Z Fold 3 about a week back. And absolutely love it. I coming from the Note line of phones. 90% of my phones have been Galaxy Note devices.
Anyway, just yesterday, the Z Fold 3 was updating, when I suddenly noticed what seemed to be a dimple/bend near the top left corner of the screen. Seemed a bit strange. The screen was clean and it has not been dropped or any damage taken place. I noticed it when the screen was off. The dimple does not affect what you are viewing on the screen. It seems to be on the area between the screen protector edge and the frame of the phone. See attached pictures. Video below but somehow sound is not coming through.
Called #Z Fold 3 "Pro Support" and was on the phone for over 45 minutes. Told them that this is not an software or hardware issue. Not sure what it is. Not sure if this will expand or in any manner cause the damage to the screen. End Result, no help. I requested that since the phone is so new, can they not just replace it with another unit? First they wanted to factory reset the unit. I asked how is that going to help when I can see the dimple/bend when the screen is off? "Pro Support"!!! Finally their answer, just return it and get another one. I told them, I preordered it which gave me a lot of store credit and not to mention great deal on my trade in, which I would I would no longer get, if I returned the device. Frustrating, how #Samsung Customer Support works. Don't think that these people understand at times. This is despite sending them the pictures and videos and them agreeing with the defect they see. Someone from #Samsung should really evaluate this. They ask me to call Sales Department. How is that supposed to help!!!
If there is someone from #Samsung, please help. Don't want to return the whole order.
It's delaminating... sealant failure.
Is what it looks like to me...
Likely it will continue to propagate.
llooks like you got a returned unit
My Bluetooth stopped working and they gave me two options.
Cancel and return everything. Which meant for me losing pre order gifts, extra trade in value, and order again.
or
let them repair it. I choose the latter. It took them two weeks in total to fix it. They replaced the main and sub board.
Samsung itself doesn’t replace.
chieco said:
My Bluetooth stopped working and they gave me two options.
Cancel and return everything. Which meant for me losing pre order gifts, extra trade in value, and order again.
or
let them repair it. I choose the latter. It took them two weeks in total to fix it. They replaced the main and sub board.
Samsung itself doesn’t replace.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would have taken door #1 without hesitation.
Screw the strong arm bs. Really?
Yet another Samsung Fold fubar begins...
blackhawk said:
I would have taken door #1 without hesitation.
Screw the strong arm bs. Really?
Yet another Samsung Fold fubar begins...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huh...? Did anyone ask you what you would have chosen?
chieco said:
Huh...? Did anyone ask you what you would have chosen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not for your benefit. Too late.
The other question for you is if it fails again, what will Samsung do?
I saw Canon replace a $6G pro cam with a new one after hardware lockup issues after their 1st repair attempt failed. They didn't even blink... they just made it right.
You paid big bucks for a brand new device, it should not need hardware repairs out of the box.
Unacceptable.
blackhawk said:
The other question for you is if it fails again, what will Samsung do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don’t waste my time thinking about things that may could occur. I still have warranty. Also I have an extra 6 months of warranty on the repairs. I’m protected by law, after the third repair attempt I can even get my money back.
blackhawk said:
You paid big bucks for a brand new device, it should not need hardware repairs out of the box.
Unacceptable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree but what should I have done instead? Make a scene? Those are just the rules. Samsung is not your friend. They want just our money and do the bare minimum that’s forced upon them.
chieco said:
I don’t waste my time thinking about things that may could occur. I still have warranty. Also I have an extra 6 months of warranty on the repairs. I’m protected by law, after the third repair attempt I can even get my money back.
I agree but what should I have done instead? Make a scene? Those are just the rules. Samsung is not your friend. They want just our money and do the bare minimum that’s forced upon them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Canon is a trusted partner; Samsung and Android are not.
Trust is earned.
There are numerous reasons why I gave that advise. In your case it's irrelevant but not for others who just had one fail!
Over the years I've returned more than one Samsung device.
Samsung has always run hot and cold with incredibly horrible tech support.
You paid big bucks for a new device. Not for one that self destructs due to poor QC, design and/or assembly. Get it?
Actions have consequences... but only if you hold them accountable.
Mind you I wuv my N10+, I have 2 of them now.
Running on P and Q but not R, ever.
My wrath at Samsung and Android is a laser sharp focus on their continued fubars, not successes. In the last year there have been many, which is why I choose to bypass both this year and in 2022. Zero regrets.
OP, if you have an Asurion repair center (formerly UBreakIFix) near you, you could always take it to them have them look at it. They are the official repair center for Samsung and who does all their warranty repairs and service.
blackhawk said:
Over the years I've returned more than one Samsung device.
Samsung has always run hot and cold with incredibly horrible tech support.
You paid big bucks for a new device. Not for one that self destructs due to poor QC, design and/or assembly. Get it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have had a different experience. Since the S4 I owned every S and Note device and only my S8 had a dead pixel and now my Fold 3 had Bluetooth issues. Other then that every device was fine and never broke while I owned it.
Used the Note 7 for a year had it rooted and restrictions disabled had no issue with it.
Samsungs QC is not bad.
chieco said:
I have had a different experience. Since the S4 I owned every S and Note device and only my S8 had a dead pixel and now my Fold 3 had Bluetooth issues. Other then that every device was fine and never broke while I owned it.
Used the Note 7 for a year had it rooted and restrictions disabled had no issue with it.
Samsungs QC is not bad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some people just don't like Samsung and want you to dislike it as well. I've owned nearly every Samsung flagship since the S7 Edge. Including all the Notes (not the Note 7), and the ZF2 and ZF3. Oh, and I literally own every single version of the wireless buds they've ever produced. And two of their Tab S tablets. Samsung customer service is clunky, but they've never not taken care of an issue for me immediately and without question. I've made two warranty claims through all those devices. And I've owned several of each device, because I can never decide on a color.
From what I've heard, they use multiple protective layers and perhaps there is an air bubble between them. Regardless,, I'd seek a replacement.
Guyinlaca said:
From what I've heard, they use multiple protective layers and perhaps there is an air bubble between them. Regardless,, I'd seek a replacement.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's actually a delamination or adhesive failure. It wasn't present when first purchased.
Most likely cause is improper surface/adhesive preparation or curing. This should not happen.
If not an isolated incident it indicates a larger design and/or production problem. Time will tell.
Samsung's we'll repair it rather replace it response is unsettling for a brand new flagship phone. It's not the customer's fault.
At this point it's now a reconditioned phone, thanks Samsung. How much much should that knock off the price?
Yet Samsung lets the customer suck up their failure. Yeah...
That's not how to make things right.
Personally I would have ripped into them like a chainsaw if they tried that with me... a stone cold pleasure.
There are too many stories about bad Samsung service here on this site alone. Cover yourself when dealing with them. Take detailed pictures before/as boxing , double box and fully insure anything of value you ship to them.
blackhawk said:
Samsung's we'll repair it rather replace it response is unsettling for a brand new flagship phone. It's not the customer's fault.
At this point it's now a reconditioned phone, thanks Samsung. How much much should that knock off the price?
Yet Samsung lets the customer suck up their failure. Yeah...
That's not how to make things right.
Personally I would have ripped into them like a chainsaw if they tried that with me... a stone cold pleasure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I'd demand a brand new phone. There is absolutely no excuse for them not to replace a $1700+ device with a brand new one.
jemfalor said:
llooks like you got a returned unit
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Click to collapse
No it is supposed to be a brand new unit. Direct from Samsung. Packaged new.
fromVinnie said:
So I just received my #Samsung Z Fold 3 about a week back. And absolutely love it. I coming from the Note line of phones. 90% of my phones have been Galaxy Note devices.
Anyway, just yesterday, the Z Fold 3 was updating, when I suddenly noticed what seemed to be a dimple/bend near the top left corner of the screen. Seemed a bit strange. The screen was clean and it has not been dropped or any damage taken place. I noticed it when the screen was off. The dimple does not affect what you are viewing on the screen. It seems to be on the area between the screen protector edge and the frame of the phone. See attached pictures. Video below but somehow sound is not coming through.
Called #Z Fold 3 "Pro Support" and was on the phone for over 45 minutes. Told them that this is not an software or hardware issue. Not sure what it is. Not sure if this will expand or in any manner cause the damage to the screen. End Result, no help. I requested that since the phone is so new, can they not just replace it with another unit? First they wanted to factory reset the unit. I asked how is that going to help when I can see the dimple/bend when the screen is off? "Pro Support"!!! Finally their answer, just return it and get another one. I told them, I preordered it which gave me a lot of store credit and not to mention great deal on my trade in, which I would I would no longer get, if I returned the device. Frustrating, how #Samsung Customer Support works. Don't think that these people understand at times. This is despite sending them the pictures and videos and them agreeing with the defect they see. Someone from #Samsung should really evaluate this. They ask me to call Sales Department. How is that supposed to help!!!
If there is someone from #Samsung, please help. Don't want to return the whole order.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't mind me asking. Did your fingernail accidentally poke the part of the screen when you are removing case?
I don't know how close your issue is to mine but I had an air bubble along crease and a few days later it got bigger and put pressure on the crease until the crease has a thick solid black line from top to bottom and the right side of inner screen no longer worked.
I managed to get it fixed through warranty by going to a samsung service center but not before the phone rep and store rep try to make it seem like I was responsible for the issue. They ended up repairing it in 3 hours but they did a professional job. I thought the phone was a replacement. Had stickers everywhere like when you first buy it. Would have preferred a replacement so I could avoid waiting but that's what Samsung care plus is for with the $250 deductible.
P.S, if you have care plus and you have an issue that is covered through warranty, don't tell them you have care plus or they'll try to get you to do it through them and they always charge that $250 deductible. Warranty repairs are free
Sugaaa said:
I don't know how close your issue is to mine but I had an air bubble along crease and a few days later it got bigger and put pressure on the crease until the crease has a thick solid black line from top to bottom and the right side of inner screen no longer worked.
I managed to get it fixed through warranty by going to a samsung service center but not before the phone rep and store rep try to make it seem like I was responsible for the issue. They ended up repairing it in 3 hours but they did a professional job. I thought the phone was a replacement. Had stickers everywhere like when you first buy it. Would have preferred a replacement so I could avoid waiting but that's what Samsung care plus is for with the $250 deductible.
P.S, if you have care plus and you have an issue that is covered through warranty, don't tell them you have care plus or they'll try to get you to do it through them and they always charge that $250 deductible. Warranty repairs are free
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not encouraging... a lamination failure.
It sounds like one of those self adhesive screen protectors that I hate. However one of those cost around $50 to buy and have applied.
Samsung's deductible of $250 more than covers the part and labor. That's not a good deal.
I'm not impressed with Samsung for they way they are fielding this expensive device.
It's doomed to fail at the fold, just a question of time. Samsung knows this all too well.

General Backcover of my Galaxy Fold 3 started Bulging/Swelling!!!

This happened after two failed attempts to fix my Fold 3 at the Official Samsung Service Plaza in Cologne! They said, probably the glue "just didn't stick right" the first time around and pressed it again. But a day later the bulge/swelling returned!
I don't believe anymore that it had anything to do with the glue in the first place. To me, it seems like the technician didn't know what he does or was in a rush and failed to assemble it properly. Either something like the Mainboard or Charging Pad isn't seated right in place and it's pushing against the back, or the Battery is swelling.
Samsung is expecting me to visit them, the 3rd time now! But my trust in this SCP is completely gone!
My Fold 3 arrived defective. I didn't return it in order to not loose my Trade-in, Pre-Order bonuses amongst other factors. I trusted my Brand New, nearly 2000€ investment in the hands of these People and they manage to mess up twice.
Samsung refuses to exchange it. What should I do? Did someone else had a similar situation and can maybe offer some advice?
Not sure what I'm looking at here, other than lots of scratching and scraping and moving the phone around on a piece of styrofoam or something.
visit your local consumer advocate, make a better video and tweet it @ some Samsung Europe higher ups. basically get all profile and legal armament you can so that you can to PR shame them into action.
if not that then go around the people telling you no, find their boss and then find his / her boss.
tell them you're thinking of sharing your experience with Linus Tech Tips and MKBHD on YouTube.
poop rolls down hill, so you should go higher up.
@pieces of cake I added screenshots.
@3mel thanks for the advice. I will have to contact my local consumer advocate because the other options sadly only work if you have many followers. I hope it get's some attraction here on xda.
officialHFR said:
@pieces of cake I added screenshots.
@3mel thanks for the advice. I will have to contact my local consumer advocate because the other options sadly only work if you have many followers. I hope it get's some attraction here on xda.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sign up to twitter and tweet a short (better) video at tech bloggers, journalists and influencers, it's their followers and reach you're trying to co-opt. Louis Rossman would be a good place to start.
battery bloated
Maybe you're watching too much pr0n on the big screen....giving the internals a b0n3r!
officialHFR said:
@pieces of cake I added screenshots.
@3mel thanks for the advice. I will have to contact my local consumer advocate because the other options sadly only work if you have many followers. I hope it get's some attraction here on xda.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I can see now. I'm sure that's infuriating. Sorry to see it and hope you can be made whole quickly.
officialHFR said:
This happened after two failed attempts to fix my Fold 3 at the Official Samsung Service Plaza in Cologne! They said, probably the glue "just didn't stick right" the first time around and pressed it again. But a day later the bulge/swelling returned!
I don't believe anymore that it had anything to do with the glue in the first place. To me, it seems like the technician didn't know what he does or was in a rush and failed to assemble it properly. Either something like the Mainboard or Charging Pad isn't seated right in place and it's pushing against the back, or the Battery is swelling.
Samsung is expecting me to visit them, the 3rd time now! But my trust in this SCP is completely gone!
My Fold 3 arrived defective. I didn't return it in order to not loose my Trade-in, Pre-Order bonuses amongst other factors. I trusted my Brand New, nearly 2000€ investment in the hands of these People and they manage to mess up twice.
Samsung refuses to exchange it. What should I do? Did someone else had a similar situation and can maybe offer some advice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you pre-ordered, doesn't it come with 1 year if Samsung care plus? Are they saying you have to keep sending it in for repairs?
@dreamtheater39 pr0n like in Flip 3 unboxings? no all jokes aside sadly I wasn't able to use my Fold 3 yet. It's been in my drawer since I got it.
@pieces of cake thanks for the kind words.
@gordec I do have 1 year Care+ Protection that's right. But Why should I use it in this case? Care+ ist for things that are my fault like smashing the F3 on the ground breaking it's screen. And they also want a flat fee of 150€. In my case it's should be covered under warranty.
officialHFR said:
@dreamtheater39 pr0n like in Flip 3 unboxings? no all jokes aside sadly I wasn't able to use my Fold 3 yet. It's been in my drawer since I got it.
@pieces of cake thanks for the kind words.
@gordec I do have 1 year Care+ Protection that's right. But Why should I use it in this case? Care+ ist for things that are my fault like smashing the F3 on the ground breaking it's screen. And they also want a flat fee of 150€. In my case it's should be covered under warranty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. I agree Samsung needs to fix this. I wasn't sure if Care plus applies to your situation. You don't have a Samsung store near by do you?
As you are from germany, they need to replace it or give the money back after second attempt of repairing.
gordec said:
Yeah. I agree Samsung needs to fix this. I wasn't sure if Care plus applies to your situation. You don't have a Samsung store near by do you?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My local Samsung Service Plaza in Cologne Germany did this my Fold 3. The technician probably had no experience and didn't assemble it correctly.
masterv1 said:
As you are from germany, they need to replace it or give the money back after second attempt of repairing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've always thought it takes 3 attempts for me to be able request such thing. But you are the second person now who said after 2 attempts!
I've wrote Samsung now and waiting for a reply. I just want a fair start with a new device which isn't defective by arrival.
I've seen this on many Moto phones. Cheap batteries or overheating such as leaving them on the dashboard of your car in the sun. The battery will swell up.
officialHFR said:
This happened after two failed attempts to fix my Fold 3 at the Official Samsung Service Plaza in Cologne! They said, probably the glue "just didn't stick right" the first time around and pressed it again. But a day later the bulge/swelling returned!
I don't believe anymore that it had anything to do with the glue in the first place. To me, it seems like the technician didn't know what he does or was in a rush and failed to assemble it properly. Either something like the Mainboard or Charging Pad isn't seated right in place and it's pushing against the back, or the Battery is swelling.
Samsung is expecting me to visit them, the 3rd time now! But my trust in this SCP is completely gone!
My Fold 3 arrived defective. I didn't return it in order to not loose my Trade-in, Pre-Order bonuses amongst other factors. I trusted my Brand New, nearly 2000€ investment in the hands of these People and they manage to mess up twice.
Samsung refuses to exchange it. What should I do? Did someone else had a similar situation and can maybe offer some advice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the same thing on my fold3. Just only bulging on the hinge side. It was like that on delivery.
The shop couldn't see what I really meant, but said I could send it in for repair. I didn't wanna leave my phone for 2 week though, so I just live with it, but it's annoying on such an expensive device.
Did you get it fixed?
Just gluing the back when the battery is swelled is a temporary fix.
I would imagine a swollen battery also takes quite a hit in battery life.
officialHFR said:
This happened after two failed attempts to fix my Fold 3 at the Official Samsung Service Plaza in Cologne! They said, probably the glue "just didn't stick right" the first time around and pressed it again. But a day later the bulge/swelling returned!
I don't believe anymore that it had anything to do with the glue in the first place. To me, it seems like the technician didn't know what he does or was in a rush and failed to assemble it properly. Either something like the Mainboard or Charging Pad isn't seated right in place and it's pushing against the back, or the Battery is swelling.
Samsung is expecting me to visit them, the 3rd time now! But my trust in this SCP is completely gone!
My Fold 3 arrived defective. I didn't return it in order to not loose my Trade-in, Pre-Order bonuses amongst other factors. I trusted my Brand New, nearly 2000€ investment in the hands of these People and they manage to mess up twice.
Samsung refuses to exchange it. What should I do? Did someone else had a similar situation and can maybe offer some advice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've heard of phones swelling before but really have never seen it!
Bulging swelling is usually a battery issue I had it happen to me with my Pixel C Tab. Maybe if you haven't already try there online chat support you might have better luck with them starting a return process
Yup. Mine is like that as well. Switched for a new unit and its the same. What a shame. If i press it down. It stays down for a while. But after that it "lifts" again. And the worse part is that i was using iPhone for the past year because im afraid of this happening on a Samsung(iPhones uses screws to hold the back while Samsung uses Glue). Surprise...
Im from Indonesia by the way. OP is from Germany. So i guess this isnt a region related issue.

Question Upgrading to Fold 5.

Might be early, but whom will be doing that?
I will first have a look at the new Pixel Fold, compare it with the Fold 5 and decide then.
Fold 5 could be the choice, if the pen is integrated in the device and battery capacity is improved.
There's no hurry ...
Only reading the rumours (and I totally appreciate they are only rumours) that it is going to be a be a very similar device to the fold 4 with only a hinge change I'm not going to bother. To me, it's not worth paying the premium again.
I'm still really enjoying my fold 3 and it serves me very well. I've not noticed any slow down or battery drop off.
The pixel fold was tempting but I occasionally use the s pen, which I think I would miss. And given Samsung haven't failed the Fold3 with software or security updates I'm not too bothered.
I will miss their camera though!
Not going for a first gen folding phone
m_w_clarke said:
Only reading the rumours (and I totally appreciate they are only rumours) that it is going to be a be a very similar device to the fold 4 with only a hinge change I'm not going to bother. To me, it's not worth paying the premium again.
I'm still really enjoying my fold 3 and it serves me very well. I've not noticed any slow down or battery drop off.
The pixel fold was tempting but I occasionally use the s pen, which I think I would miss. And given Samsung haven't failed the Fold3 with software or security updates I'm not too bothered.
I will miss their camera though!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, the Fold 5 is gonna have a similar footprint as the Fold 4. However the crease on the Fold 5 will be less noticable and it will have no gap when closed.
ronaldheld said:
Might be early, but whom will be doing that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be honest Samsung has put me off of folding anything, as well as Samsung Products. I waited to get a folder until I thought the tech was mature enough, as someone else said , I'm not buying a gen 1 device. I had the S21 Ultra and it was rad. We switched Carriers and I thought the ZFold 3 would be neat, and it was for the first couple of weeks. After showing it off to everyone that wanted to see it and settling in to normal use, I quickly figured out that I had downgraded while spending way more on the device. The folding quickly became a rarely used gimmick, I would say I used it once or twice a week, that's not Samsung's fault, I should have thought more about my own needs and habits. As a bar phone it fell short of the older s21 ultra in every metric that I cared about, that is on Samsung and Me, I should have done more due diligence. What Put me off of Samsung though is how they handled the Warranty. 3 days before my warranty expired the seam in the fold went and the inner screen was done for. Samsung told me to take it to the Asurion repair shop and they informed me that no mater what it was going to be considered external damage, even though I had never dropped it or over used the fold. I had to replace it, even though it was known issue. I have been with Samsung since the Behold 2, I have had so many of their phones and products over the years and its just a bummer. I almost sold our bespoke fridge over it, but its just so pretty. So nah, I dont think Im gonna buy it. Sorry, that rant came out of no where.
I have been put off folding phones because of how I have to really take care when the phone is opened. I had the bubbling issue with the factory screen protector and after visiting a samsung store to see if I could get it replaced they declined, I like my fold 3 and will use it a little longer but think my next phone will be the s24 ultra when that comes out.
That is not always the case. I had the issue with my inner screen protector and Samsung Repair Center in Zurich replaced it at no charge.
They mentioned, it's done for free only once, the next time, I have to pay 50 bucks to get it replaced.
TexasMade said:
To be honest Samsung has put me off of folding anything, as well as Samsung Products. I waited to get a folder until I thought the tech was mature enough, as someone else said , I'm not buying a gen 1 device. I had the S21 Ultra and it was rad. We switched Carriers and I thought the ZFold 3 would be neat, and it was for the first couple of weeks. After showing it off to everyone that wanted to see it and settling in to normal use, I quickly figured out that I had downgraded while spending way more on the device. The folding quickly became a rarely used gimmick, I would say I used it once or twice a week, that's not Samsung's fault, I should have thought more about my own needs and habits. As a bar phone it fell short of the older s21 ultra in every metric that I cared about, that is on Samsung and Me, I should have done more due diligence. What Put me off of Samsung though is how they handled the Warranty. 3 days before my warranty expired the seam in the fold went and the inner screen was done for. Samsung told me to take it to the Asurion repair shop and they informed me that no mater what it was going to be considered external damage, even though I had never dropped it or over used the fold. I had to replace it, even though it was known issue. I have been with Samsung since the Behold 2, I have had so many of their phones and products over the years and its just a bummer. I almost sold our bespoke fridge over it, but its just so pretty. So nah, I dont think Im gonna buy it. Sorry, that rant came out of no where.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, how do you NOT use the inner screen on this phone?! I very rarely use the outer screen, and am on the inner one all day. Only times I use the outer one is in the car (it is in a wireless charging arm that comes down from the dashboard next to my Android car unit screen), for the stopwatch while using mouthwash (takes up less counter space folded), and if I'm doing something quick (like turning on a Vibe on my Apollo Neuro device) while it is folded for being in my purse or on a wireless charger. I'm glad the outer screen is there, especially for the Always-On screen to see the time, calendar, and notifications, but the inner one is so much better and more useful for everything. A lot easier to type on, too.
I replaced the inner screen protector with the White-whatever one once (there was a bubble creeping along the fold and it no longer had the anti-fingerprint feature) and it was pretty easy to do. Have had this since a few days before launch day. Another year and some months to finish paying it off, so we'll see what's out then for folding phones, but I usually don't upgrade often.
ronaldheld said:
Not going for a first gen folding phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Especially when it has older hardware, like the Pixel Fold. I might forgo the Pixel 8P and go straight for the Fold 2. That's the only way I can justify spending for two phones.
Rather upgrade to Fold 5 versus pixel fold 1.
ronaldheld said:
Might be early, but whom will be doing that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What are the reviews I'm currently using S22 ultra is it a good idea to switch to fold. I want an honest review about this! Want to switch on fold.
ronaldheld said:
Might be early, but whom will be doing that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im actually considering to upgrade. I soo far love the Fold 3 as it is and its been a wonderful experience soo far. And seeing news and leaked images of the Fold 5 is making me want to upgrade. There is also the Pixel Fold being launched soon to the market and I also heard that Oneplus is working on one already. I thought Ill wait until all these releases and then opt the best out of the lot!
How good are the Fold devices from Samsung? Do you recommend me getting once cause Im really intrigued by them and I want them to be performing well enough too. Are they optimized enough and do they get slow over time? How is the battery performance? Ive also heard about multiple applications not being well optimized to the Aspect Ratio of the phone since the Main has a big screen, how does this affect the UX and what about the gaming compatibilities?
I would love to know about the requested queries!
Prakash_Raj said:
How good are the Fold devices from Samsung? Do you recommend me getting once cause Im really intrigued by them and I want them to be performing well enough too. Are they optimized enough and do they get slow over time? How is the battery performance? Ive also heard about multiple applications not being well optimized to the Aspect Ratio of the phone since the Main has a big screen, how does this affect the UX and what about the gaming compatibilities?
I would love to know about the requested queries!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The best thing for you to do is go into a store and play around with a demo unit to see if it is good for you. As everybodys opinon of the device is different and it is all based on user preference
Prakash_Raj said:
How good are the Fold devices from Samsung? Do you recommend me getting once cause Im really intrigued by them and I want them to be performing well enough too. Are they optimized enough and do they get slow over time? How is the battery performance? Ive also heard about multiple applications not being well optimized to the Aspect Ratio of the phone since the Main has a big screen, how does this affect the UX and what about the gaming compatibilities?
I would love to know about the requested queries!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are pretty good in my opinion. Ive been using the Fold 3 for a while now and there is no major complaints as such. Like @iceepyon mentioned, its always good to check it hands-on for a better understanding of the device and your liking towards it.
iceepyon said:
The best thing for you to do is go into a store and play around with a demo unit to see if it is good for you. As everybodys opinon of the device is different and it is all based on user preference
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay I get that! Nothing beats a hands-on experience on the device itself so yes, I think I will check the device out in real to truly understand if its for me or not.
But since ya'll have been using the Fold on a daily basis for a while, I wanted to know how good it is on a long term and as a daily driver for daily usage and stuff.
EdwardMatthew said:
What are the reviews I'm currently using S22 ultra is it a good idea to switch to fold. I want an honest review about this! Want to switch on fold.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey hope you all are doing great! Seems like you guys didn't see my comment that's why I'm commenting again

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