How the HONOR Magic V5 challenges the fragile image of foldable smartphones

The HONOR Magic V5 is shaping up to be more than just another foldable phone. Ahead of its September 5 launch in the Philippines, the device has captured attention not only for its slim form and flagship hardware but also for how durable it has proven to be in real-world demonstrations.

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Durability has always been a key concern for foldable phones. Many consumers worry about fragile hinges, delicate screens, or overall sturdiness compared to traditional smartphones. HONOR is taking these concerns head-on, proving through bold demonstrations that the HONOR Magic V5 is not as fragile as people might think.

At a recent media preview, the HONOR Magic V5 was tested in ways few smartphones have ever been. The foldable carried a load of up to 104 kilograms, earning a Guinness World Record in the process. To prove this strength, HONOR placed a full-sized four-seater sofa directly on the device, and it held the weight without breaking.

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The hinge, often considered the weakest part of any foldable, was also put to the test. The phone managed to carry a heavy dumbbell with no issues, further proving the resilience of its aerospace-grade construction. These demonstrations showed that HONOR has invested not only in making the HONOR Magic V5 slim and light, but also structurally reliable.

Beyond strength, the HONOR Magic V5 has water resistance to match. With IP58 and IP59 ratings, it can survive splashes and even temporary submersion in freshwater. HONOR emphasizes that this protection is not designed for seawater or chlorinated pools but is meant to protect against accidents like rain or spilled drinks. For a foldable, this adds another level of reassurance for everyday use.

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What makes these durability feats even more surprising is the HONOR Magic V5’s weight. At just 217 grams in its Ivory White version, it is one of the lightest foldables available. During demonstrations, the phone was even shown being lifted by strong wind pressure. While not exactly a practical test, it highlighted the unusual balance of being both extremely light and incredibly strong.

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These showcases appear designed to change the narrative around foldables. Instead of being fragile, careful-use devices, the HONOR Magic V5 is being positioned as tough enough to withstand unexpected scenarios. It is an attempt to convince consumers that buying a foldable does not mean giving up durability.

As the September 5 launch approaches, the Guinness record and these extreme demos give the HONOR Magic V5 a unique story in a crowded market. With strength to hold furniture, endurance against water, and a slim yet sturdy build, the phone challenges long-standing doubts about foldables.

Do you think these durability stunts are enough to change how people view foldable phones?

Carl walked away from a corporate marketing career to build WalasTech from the ground up—now he writes no-fluff tech stories as its Founder and Editor-in-Chief. When news breaks, he’s already typing. Got a tip? Hit him up at [email protected].