Precautions when using the Galaxy foldable devices

Last Update date : Oct 08. 2021

The Galaxy foldable devices are equipped with Infinity Flex Display based on Ultra-Thin Glass. Since these devices are produced using foldable glass substances, they need some extra care and maintenance to perform at their best. Also, you need to know the precautions to keep device operating environment in top condition and to avoid device overheating. Check out the guide below to keep your foldable phone looking and performing great.

Before you try the recommendations below, be sure to check if your device's software and related apps are updated to the latest version. To update your mobile device's software, follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to Settings > Software update.

Step 2. Tap on Download and install.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Precautions for operating environment

Your foldable phone may heat up due to the environment in the following conditions. Use caution to avoid shortening the battery’s lifespan, damaging the device, or causing a fire.

  • Do not store your device in very cold or very hot temperatures.
  • Do not expose your device to direct sunlight for extended periods.
foldable precaution operating environment 3
  • Do not use or store your device for extended periods in very hot areas, such as inside a car in the summertime.
  • Do not place the device in any areas that may overheat, such as on an electric heating mat.
foldable precaution operating environment 2
  • Do not store your device near or in heaters, microwaves, hot cooking equipment, or high-pressure containers.
  • Do not use a cable with the covering peeled off or damaged, and do not use any charger or battery that is damaged or malfunctioning.
foldable precaution operating environment

Precautions for device overheating

If you begin to feel uncomfortable due to the device overheating, stop using the device. When the device heats up, the features and performance may be limited or the device may turn off to cool down. The feature is only available on supported models.

  • If the device overheats or reaches a certain temperature, a warning message will appear to prevent device failure, skin irritations and damages, and battery leakage. To lower the device’s temperature, the screen brightness and the performance speed will be limited and battery charging will stop. Running apps will be closed and all calling and other features will be limited, except for emergency calls, until the device cools down.
precaution overheating message
  • If a second message appears due to a further increase of the device’s temperature, the device will turn off. Do not use the device until the device’s temperature drops below the specified level. If the second warning message appears during an emergency call, the call will not be disconnected by a forced shut down.

Note: Warning messages may vary by device model.

Precautions for keeping device in best condition

Your foldable phone is extra special, but that also means it needs some extra care. To keep your Galaxy foldable phone looking and working great, follow these other important tips:

Do not press the screen with a sharp object

Do not press the screen or front camera lens with a sharp object, such as a pen or your fingernail. Do not apply excessive pressure to it. Please be aware that excessive force or pressure using the tool on the main screen may result in scratches or damages.

foldable precaution

Remove all foreign objects from the main screen

When folding the device, do not place any objects, such as cards, coins, or keys, in between the screens, as doing so may cause damage to the main screen. Fold the device before putting it in or storing it. Be sure not to store the device unfolded as there is a chance that another object could scratch or puncture the screen. It is not recommended to open the screen by using a finger in between the screen.

foldable precaution2

Be careful that liquids and dust does not enter the device

Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Z Flip3 5G support IPX8 rated water-resistance. Care must be taken to maintain the water-resistance of your device and to prevent the damage to your device.

  • Do not immerse the device in fresh water deeper than 1.5 m for more than 30 minutes. If you immerse the device in any liquid other than fresh water, such as salt water, ionized water, or alcoholic beverage, liquid will enter the device faster and it may result in damage to device.
  • If the device is exposed to fresh water, dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth. If the device is exposed to other liquids, such as salt water, swimming pool water, soapy water, oil, perfume, sunscreen, hand cleaner, or chemical products such as cosmetics, rinse it with fresh water and dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth. If you do not follow these instructions, it may cause damage to the device and the device’s performance and appearance may be affected, also it may not be covered by warranty.
  • Do not expose the device to water moving with force.

In addition, these devices are not dust-resistant. Exposure to small particles, such as sand, may cause damage to the device, such as scratches or dents on the screen.

water resistant

Note: IPX8 is based on test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use.

Do not remove the screen protector film

It is recommended that you do not remove the screen protector film, and do not install other films or stickers, as doing so may cause device damage. Unapproved screen protectors may cause the sensors to malfunction.

Keep a safe distance from magnetic objects 

Your device contains magnets. Please keep a safe distance between your device and objects that may be affected by magnets, such as credit cards and implantable medical devices because the objects may be damaged or disabled by the magnets in the device. If you have an implantable medical device, consult your physician before use.

Ensure the device is folded and positioned correctly when wireless charging

When wireless charging, fold the device and place the device's back on the center of the wireless charger. Since the product has a built-in magnet and the location of the wireless charging coil is different depending on the device, adjust the device's position as shown below.

Otherwise, the device may not charge properly or may overheat. If you place it in a different position or orientation than the picture, it may slip due to the inclination of the device and magnetic force.

foldable charging tip

Galaxy Z Fold3 5G

foldable charging tip2

Galaxy Z Flip3 5G

Note: 

  • If you use a metal protective cover or sticker, or a cover with metal ring on the device, please remove it before wireless charging and charge the device. Also, do not place the device on the wireless charger when conductive materials, such as metal objects and magnets, are placed between the device and the wireless charger.
  • The location of the wireless charging coil may differ depending on the device.

When using Samsung Pay, use your Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G closed 

For your Galaxy Z Fold, we recommend that you use the device closed for Samsung Pay. For the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, the device reads Samsung Pay at the bottom, so tag the device backside on the card or NFC reader with the bottom half.

foldable samsung pay
  • To make payments with Samsung Pay, the device may require a connection to a Wi-Fi or mobile network depending on the region.
  • This feature may not be available depending on the service provider or country.

How to use the Samsung Members app

If you are experiencing difficulties with your Samsung mobile, tablet, or wearables, you can send us a question in the Samsung Members app. Find out more about sending an error report.

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