Title: Inside Samsung’s Reliability Testing Labs: A Glimpse into the World of Rugged Phones
In a bid to ensure their phones can withstand the harshest of conditions, Samsung has opened the doors to its reliability testing labs in Suwon, South Korea. As one of the world’s leading smartphone manufacturers, the company understands the importance of delivering reliable devices to its customers, especially considering past setbacks.
The testing process takes place prior to the phones being shipped worldwide, ensuring that every device is thoroughly stress-tested before landing in the hands of consumers. This is key for Samsung, which has experienced notable reliability issues in the past, such as the infamous Galaxy Note 7 recall in 2016 and the delayed launch of their first foldable phone in 2019.
Recently, technology news outlet CNET, along with other journalists, had the rare opportunity to step inside Samsung’s lab and witness first-hand how the company subjects its devices to a battery of rigorous tests. The goal is to prepare the devices for potential accidents or mishaps that could occur during everyday use.
The testing includes a range of experiments, such as drop tests, tumble tests, and impact tests using steel balls. Additionally, foldable phones undergo specialized tests to assess their durability when opened and closed repeatedly. Samsung confidently claims that their Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models are tested to withstand up to 200,000 folds.
Water resistance is another essential aspect of smartphone durability, and Samsung does not take it lightly. The devices are sprayed from all angles and submerged in water tanks to test their resistance against liquids.
The lab is equipped with various machines replicating real-world scenarios to assess the performance and durability of USB ports, buttons, stylus pressure sensitivity, and camera functionality. From simulating situations in cafes to mimicking park bench scenarios, Samsung leaves no stone unturned when it comes to thorough testing.
Furthermore, Samsung has dedicated chambers designed to recreate extreme conditions, including both frigid cold and highly humid environments. These tests ensure that their devices withstand even the most extreme climates without compromising their performance.
By opening up its testing lab, Samsung aims to provide insights into their extensive development process and the meticulous testing required for new components and features. This transparency may also help users understand the lengthy timeframe it takes for new concepts to become tangible products.
In conclusion, Samsung’s reliability testing labs in Suwon, South Korea, stand as a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering durable devices to customers worldwide. Through an array of rigorous tests and simulations, Samsung ensures that its phones can endure drops, dunks, extreme climates, and other hardships, giving users peace of mind in a world where accidents are common.