Google has made a striking return to the foldable smartphone market with its highly anticipated Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This device, part of the latest Pixel 9 lineup, represents a significant leap forward from its predecessor, the original Pixel Fold. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is not just a minor update but a comprehensive overhaul that brings a refined and sophisticated experience to users, marking Google’s commitment to innovation in the foldable device segment.
Design and Display: Elevating the Foldable Experience
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold showcases a complete design transformation that sets it apart from its predecessor. Google has reimagined the device with a taller and slimmer profile, making it more ergonomic and easier to handle. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is now 15.5 millimeters taller than the original Pixel Fold, even surpassing the dimensions of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6. Despite its larger size, the device is lighter, contributing to a more comfortable user experience. One of the most notable improvements is the updated hinge mechanism, which now allows the foldable to open completely flat, addressing a key issue with the first-generation model.
The increase in size has also allowed for larger displays, which is a significant upgrade for users who value screen real estate. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a 6.3-inch cover display and an expansive 8-inch internal foldable display. Both screens utilize OLED technology, offering vivid colors and deep blacks, with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Additionally, the displays can reach a peak brightness of 2,700 nits, ensuring clear visibility even in bright sunlight, making it ideal for various lighting conditions.
Performance and Software: Power Meets Intelligence
Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chipset, the same processor that powers the entire Pixel 9 series. Built on Samsung’s advanced 4nm process, this chipset includes a 3.1GHz Cortex-X4 prime core, three Cortex-A720 cores at 2.6GHz, and four Cortex-A520 cores at 1.95GHz. The device comes with up to 16 GB of RAM and storage options of up to 1 TB, ensuring smooth performance for multitasking, gaming, and other demanding applications.
Running on Android 14, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold benefits from Google’s latest AI advancements. The device features on-device Gemini Nano, enhanced Pixel Screenshots, and an upgraded Magic Editor. One of the standout software features is the “Add Me” function, which allows users to digitally insert themselves into photos, adding a fun and creative element to photo editing.
Camera System: Versatility and Precision
Google has not skimped on the camera system for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The device boasts a versatile setup led by a 48MP main sensor, which offers dual pixel PDAF and optical image stabilization (OIS) for sharp and clear photos in various lighting conditions. Accompanying the main camera is a 10.5MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, allowing users to capture distant subjects with clarity. Additionally, the 12MP ultrawide camera is perfect for landscape shots and group photos. Both the inner and outer displays feature 10MP selfie cameras, capable of recording video at 4K 60 FPS, making it a powerful tool for content creators.
Battery Life and Pricing: All-Day Power
Despite its slim design, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is equipped with a 4,650 mAh battery, which Google claims can last an entire day on a single charge. The device supports wired charging, although it is limited to 21W, which may feel underwhelming compared to some competitors. Wireless charging is also available, albeit at a slower 7.5W.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is available in two color options: Porcelain and Obsidian. Pricing for the base model with 256 GB of storage starts at $1,799, while the 512 GB variant is priced at $1,919. These prices position the Pixel 9 Pro Fold as a premium device, targeting consumers who seek top-tier technology and an exceptional user experience.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Specifications:
- Chipset: Google Tensor G4
- CPU: Octa-core (1×3.1 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3×2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 4×1.92 GHz Cortex-A520)
- GPU: Mali-G715 MC7
- OS: Android 14
- Supported Networks: 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G
- Display:
- Main display: 8″ Foldable LTPO OLED, 2076 x 2152 pixels, 120Hz, 2700 nits peak
- Secondary display: 6.3″ OLED, 1080 x 2424 pixels, 120Hz, 2700 nits peak
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 256 GB, 512 GB, 1TB
- Main Camera:
- 48 MP, f/1.7, 25mm (wide), 1/2.0″, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
- 10.8 MP, f/3.1, 112mm (telephoto), 5x optical zoom
- 12 MP, f/2.2, 127˚ (ultrawide)
- Front Camera: 10 MP, f/2.2, 23mm (wide)
- Battery: 4,650 mAh, 21W wired charging, 7.5W wireless charging
- Price: Starting at $1,799
With its impressive design, powerful internals, and innovative software features, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is set to make a strong impact in the foldable market, offering users a cutting-edge device that seamlessly blends functionality with style.