Google's latest foldable smartphone, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, has been confirmed to have surprisingly slow charging capabilities, raising questions about its premium Pro status and $1,800 price tag.
Charging Speed Compromise
Despite being the most expensive device in the Pixel 9 lineup, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold charges at just 21W via wired connection. This is significantly slower than its siblings:
- Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro: 27W
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: 37W
Even more concerning, the 21W charging speed matches that of the three-year-old Pixel 6, a much less expensive device.
Wireless Charging Woes
The compromises don't end with wired charging. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold also faces issues with wireless charging:
- Maximum wireless charging speed: 7.5W
- Incompatible with Google's second-gen Pixel Stand
- Lower coil placement causes issues with many wireless chargers
A Pattern of Compromises
The charging limitations are part of a broader pattern of compromises in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold:
- Outer display sourced from the regular Pixel 9
- Cameras underperform compared to other Pixel 9 models
- Lacks some Pro features like the thermometer sensor
Impact on User Experience
While the slower charging may not drastically impact day-to-day use for all users, it raises questions about the device's premium positioning. At $1,800, consumers might expect top-tier performance in all areas, including charging speed.
Looking Ahead
As Google continues to refine its foldable offerings, addressing these compromises will be crucial for future iterations to truly earn the Pro moniker and justify their high price points. For now, users seeking the ultimate Pixel experience may need to look beyond the foldable form factor to devices like the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
