What do foldable phone cases actually protect?

Foldable phone cases shield the back, sides, and front perimeter of devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and iPhone Duo, protecting camera lenses and screens from shock, scratches, and scuffs. They do not protect the hinge or prevent dust ingress. Two-part designs cover rear and front separately. Rugged models like Supcase’s Unicorn Beetle Pro add hinge protection and built-in tempered glass, increasing bulk. Dust protection relies on the phone’s own IP68 rating, not the case.