Google has entered the foldable smartphone arena with its second-generation device, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This new offering aims to compete directly with established players like Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the OnePlus Open, bringing Google's signature software experience to the expanding foldable market.
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| The sleek design of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, showcasing its minimalist aesthetic, represents Google's latest entry into the foldable smartphone market |
Design and Build Quality
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant departure from its predecessor, adopting a more conventional book-style form factor. At just 10.5mm thick when folded, it claims the title of the slimmest foldable among its competitors. The device features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, with an aluminum frame providing durability. While it lacks dust protection, it matches the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 with an IPX8 water resistance rating.
Display
One of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's standout features is its expansive 8-inch inner display, the largest among its peers. The outer 6.3-inch cover display maintains a traditional smartphone aspect ratio, potentially offering a more familiar user experience compared to other foldables. Google has also addressed criticisms of the previous model by reducing the bezels on the inner display.
Camera System
The camera setup on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold includes:
- 48MP f/1.7 main lens with PDAF and OIS
- 10.5MP ultra-wide lens
- 10.8MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom
While not a revolutionary upgrade from the previous generation, the Pixel series is known for its computational photography prowess, which should translate well to this new form factor.
Software and AI Features
As expected from a Google device, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold comes loaded with AI-powered features, including:
- Add Me: For easy group photos without a third party
- Pixel Screenshots: Intelligent information capture
- Super Res Zoom, Audio Magic Eraser, and Magic Editor in Google Photos
Google is offering an industry-leading seven years of OS updates, although the device ships with Android 14 rather than the anticipated Android 15.
Performance and Battery
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google's Tensor G4 chip. While this may not match the raw performance of Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 found in the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Google's focus on AI and machine learning capabilities could provide a unique user experience.
Battery life and charging speed remain areas of concern. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers 21W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging, both slower than its competitors.
Price and Availability
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is priced at $1,799 / £1,799 / AU$2,699, positioning it as a premium device but slightly undercutting Samsung's offering.
Conclusion
Google's Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant step forward in the company's foldable ambitions. While it may not lead in every specification, its combination of a sleek design, expansive display, and Google's software expertise make it a compelling option for those looking to enter the foldable market or upgrade from an older device. As the foldable space continues to evolve, Google's entry could push innovation forward and potentially bring these devices to a broader audience.
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| A user-friendly illustration of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold in hand, reflecting Google's innovation in the foldable smartphone landscape |
