In January 2024, Asus released the ROG Phone 8 Pro to markets worldwide. Since then, fans have seen devices reach hands-on reviewers, including a popular YouTube creator who goes by Zach Nelson but is widely known as JerryRigEverything. He obtained units to put the gaming handset through a sequence of strength tests that fans have come to expect from his channel.
Those familiar with Zach’s test videos will recognize the initial scratch assessment. On the ROG Phone 8 Pro, scratches appeared at level 6, and deeper dents formed at level 7, a result consistent with many modern smartphones. The device uses Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for its display, which provides heightened scratch resistance compared with earlier generations.
The ROG Phone 8 Pro features a metal chassis that shows visible wear at multiple edges under casual handling. During the test, experts observed that a light flame applied to the screen for about 20 seconds did not restore the damaged area to its original appearance, and some pixels did not revert to normal afterward, highlighting the material response under direct heat exposure.
In the core portion of the durability sequence, the tester applied substantial pressure from both the front and back to assess bending resistance. From the front, noticeable flex began to appear as force increased, while a bend from the rear caused the glass-backed panel to fracture. Despite the rear glass damage, the device continued to function, a result that contrasts with earlier Asus models during similar stress tests, where functionality was lost under comparable conditions.
After disassembly, the reviewer opened the ROG Phone 8 Pro to reveal design elements that contribute to its thermal management and lighting system. The ROG LED array, the expanded cooling solution, and other internal components were shown, illustrating how Asus integrates cooling and visual features within the compact frame.
Additionally, the broader tech industry has seen companies reassess flexible display concepts, with Apple reportedly pausing development of a device featuring a flexible screen. This context underscores ongoing debates about durability, repairability, and the long-term viability of flexible display technology in flagship smartphones—issues that manufacturers continue to address as innovations evolve. Such moves influence consumer expectations for future gaming phones, including changes in how devices balance power, heat, and structural integrity over time.