Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Game-Changer or Just Another Foldable?

Google has officially launched the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, marking its second attempt at a foldable smartphone. The device promises a refined design, improved performance, and advanced AI-powered features. However, early reviews suggest that while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold makes notable improvements, it still comes with compromises.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Features

Design

Google optimised the Pixel 9 Pro Fold to function as a mobile phone before serving any other purpose, thanks to its unified design approach that is consistent with normal Pixel 9 phones. This phone’s metal construction is combined with improved camera positioning and a hinged mechanism, resulting in a seamless folded structure. The 6.3-inch front display transforms into an 8-inch OLED inner panel. The new Pixel Fold foldable features an attractive symmetrical design that addresses complaints of the first-generation Pixel Fold.

Battery Life

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by a 4,650mAh battery and features Google’s Tensor G4 CPU for exceptional power efficiency. With the Pixel Fold, users can use the display for five hours until the battery drops to 30-45%. The wireless charging function of Google’s Pixel Stand 2 appears to have issues when attempting to power the device. Wired charging is capped at 21W, significantly slower than some competitors.

Software and AI Integration

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs Android 14, giving customers Google’s proprietary Pixel OS interface and upgraded tablet functionality. The tablet includes a taskbar for convenient multitasking, app pairing for split-screen operation, and additional productivity tools via a Gemini Advanced AI subscription. Unlike some foldables that introduce a radically different interface, Google has kept the experience familiar while optimizing for larger screens.

Camera

Despite the inclusion of “Pro” in its designation, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is equipped with a distinct camera configuration compared to both the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL models. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers users a triad of cameras, comprising a 48MP primary sensor, alongside a 10.5MP ultra-wide lens and a 10.8MP telephoto lens. While the Pixel 9 Pro Fold upholds commendable photographic quality, its telephoto camera does not attain the performance of the 48MP Quad PD sensor found in the Pro models, resulting in somewhat constrained zoom capabilities. Users have also noted that the camera preview does not always match the final processed image.

Weight, Display Ratio, and Connectivity

At 257g, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is noticeably heavier than traditional smartphones, making extended one-handed use more challenging. This increased weight may result in challenges when attempting to use the device with one hand for prolonged durations. Users encounter the presence of black bars while engaging in gaming or viewing videos, attributable to the nearly square configuration of the inner display. Users have reported encountering connectivity issues, attributing these difficulties to the device’s inferior performance in both 5G and Wi-Fi capabilities compared to premier models from rival manufacturers. Google’s modem choice appears to be a limiting factor, particularly in areas with weaker signals.

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a notable advancement in the company’s foldable product range, featuring a refined design, robust battery performance, and seamlessly incorporated software. However, the device presents certain trade-offs, including its weight, reduced charging rates, and a camera system that does not meet the benchmark established by other Pixel 9 Pro models.

With a commitment to provide seven years of software updates, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is strategically positioned as a long-term investment for consumers interested in delving into the realm of foldable devices. However, whether it can truly challenge Samsung’s dominance in the foldable space remains to be seen.