Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Bigger Screen, Better Performance, and Refined Design
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google's latest foldable flagship, is already in the hands of tech reviewers. Compared to its predecessor, the device boasts several upgrades, including larger displays, a more ergonomic design, and new camera features. Let's dive into the media's initial impressions.
Design and Display
Tech YouTuber MKBHD praised the phone's premium look and feel, highlighting its matte glass back, sleek aluminum frame, and minimal screen bezels. The device itself is remarkably thin when folded – each half barely thicker than a USB-C port – making it relatively compact at 10.5mm. However, the camera bump still protrudes noticeably, which seems to be the only significant design drawback. Color options are minimal, with just Obsidian (black) and Porcelain (white) available. The phone is IPX8 water-resistant, capable of withstanding submersion.
The external OLED display measures 6.3 inches diagonally, offering FHD+ resolution and a refresh rate ranging from 60Hz to 120Hz. Unfolded, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold reveals a spacious 8-inch Super Actua Flex display with a resolution of 2076x2152 and a 120Hz refresh rate. These are currently the largest screens available on any foldable phone of this type. Peak brightness has also been increased by 80% compared to the original Pixel Fold, reaching 2700 nits, with typical values around 1800 and 1600 nits. The 20:9 aspect ratio is a welcome improvement, according to 9to5Google, proving more practical for running applications than the previous model's wider format.
Performance, Software, and Camera
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google's Tensor G4 chipset paired with 16GB of RAM. Storage options include 256GB and 512GB. The processor delivers a noticeable performance boost, handling multitasking with ease, as noted by PC Mag. The enhanced neural processing unit ensures smooth operation of AI-powered features, many of which are integrated into the camera experience. All the latest software features available on Google's standard flagships are also present here, including: the Gemini Nano assistant, image generation in Pixel Studio, Pixel Screenshots with intelligent screenshot search, AI-powered weather commentary, and more.
Engadget's reviewer particularly appreciated the "Made You Look" feature, exclusive to the Pro Fold. When photographing a child using the rear camera, a fun animation appears on the external display to grab their attention and elicit a smile. The rear camera setup consists of three sensors: a 48MP main sensor (f/1.7, OIS), a 10.8MP telephoto lens (5x zoom, OIS), and a 10.5MP ultrawide lens (127°). While this combination appears promising, journalists have yet to publish detailed camera tests. The battery capacity, however, has been slightly reduced compared to the Pixel Fold, down to 4560 mAh. Google promises up to 24 hours of battery life with normal use and up to 72 hours with the battery saver preset enabled. 45W fast charging is supported, but the adapter is sold separately.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold starts at $1,799.
