Google has nailed the foldable phone design with its new Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Unlike its competitors, this device feels just like a regular phone when closed but unfolds to reveal an impressive 8-inch tablet screen.
On its second attempt at creating a foldable phone, Google has taken a significant leap forward. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold comes in a simple, familiar shape that’s easy to use and handle. When folded, it resembles a standard 6.3-inch phone, but it opens up to showcase a stunning 8-inch tablet screen. This design makes it different from its predecessors and rivals such as Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series.
The interior screen is ideal for multitasking, allowing users to run two apps simultaneously side by side. Though the 8-inch display is not perfect for widescreen video, it excels in other areas with its crisp, smooth visuals and high brightness, which makes it usable outdoors. The folding mechanics have improved, reducing the noticeable crease in the middle, though the soft materials are still a compromise.
Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chip and 16GB of RAM, ensuring snappy performance and efficient multitasking. However, it does not quite match the raw power of competitors using Qualcomm’s top-tier processors. The battery life is decent, lasting about 40 hours with regular use, and a full charge takes roughly 97 minutes with a 45W charger.
The device comes with Android 14 and promises seven years of software support. One of its standout features is the Gemini Live experience, which offers a conversational AI that can run alongside other apps. This AI-based feature enhances multitasking, making activities like generating images or searching for tickets more convenient.
Camera performance on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is top-notch. It includes three rear cameras: a 48MP wide, a 10.5MP ultrawide, and a 10.8MP 5x telephoto. There are also two 10MP selfie cameras for video calls. While the camera quality is slightly inferior to its non-folding counterparts, it’s still superior to other foldable devices. Features like the Made You Look addition help capture better photos by attracting the attention of subjects.
Durability remains a concern with foldables, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is no exception. Its folding design makes it less robust than standard phones, and repairs to the internal screen can be costly. Google uses 18% recycled materials in the construction, and the device can be repaired by Google or third-party shops. The company also offers a recycling program for old devices.
Priced at £1,749, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is more expensive than many non-foldable phones, including some of Google’s own models. Despite this, it offers a unique blend of functionality and convenience. It functions seamlessly as a regular phone when closed and transforms into a tablet when opened. The AI features, solid performance, and excellent camera capabilities make it a strong contender in the foldable market.
With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google has delivered a foldable device that feels as natural to use as a standard phone. It offers advanced features and solid performance, making it an attractive option for those who can afford the premium price.
Source: Theguardian