In a world where smartphones are evolving at lightning speed, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold emerges as a strong contender in the foldable market, combining Google’s expertise in software with cutting-edge hardware design.
But with increasing competition from giants like Samsung and Huawei in the foldable phone space, can Google’s new offering stand out?
Starblog presents what makes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold a unique and exciting device—and where it may fall short.
Design & Build Quality
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is undeniably striking. Google has chosen a premium blend of materials, with a sturdy hinge mechanism that feels smoother and more refined than previous iterations. The phone’s sleek profile, when unfolded, delivers a near-tablet experience, offering a large 7.8-inch flexible AMOLED display that’s perfect for multitasking, streaming, or gaming.
What sets the Pixel 9 Pro Fold apart is its focus on practicality. It’s slimmer and more compact when folded than many of its competitors, making it easier to carry and use one-handed. The attention to detail in the hinge mechanism means the folding and unfolding process feels seamless, with little to no noticeable crease in the middle of the display when fully opened.
However, while it excels in portability and premium feel, the phone is still relatively heavy compared to non-foldable devices. This is a common trade-off in foldable phones, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to weight.
Display: Visual Specifications
Google has equipped the Pixel 9 Pro Fold with a 7.8-inch main AMOLED display that supports a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering buttery-smooth transitions and ultra-responsive touch input. Colors are vibrant, with deep blacks and sharp details, making it an ideal device for media consumption.
What’s especially impressive is the outer 6.5-inch cover display, which doesn’t feel like a compromise at all. It’s large enough for day-to-day tasks like texting, browsing, or checking notifications without needing to unfold the phone. This dual-display setup ensures you can get the best of both worlds—quick tasks on the go or a more immersive experience when you want it.
That said, one concern with foldable displays remains durability. While Google has made strides with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s screen resilience, it still lacks the toughness of traditional glass displays. Users should be cautious about placing undue pressure on the inner screen, and investing in a protective case may be a wise decision.
Performance: Power Meets Intelligence
At the heart of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the Google Tensor G3 chip, the latest iteration of Google’s custom-built processor. Paired with 12GB of RAM, this powerhouse ensures that the device handles demanding apps, games, and multitasking with ease. The integration of AI and machine learning directly into the chip means the phone can adapt to user habits, optimizing performance while maintaining battery efficiency.
One of the standout features of the Pixel series has always been Google’s software. With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google introduces some foldable-specific features to take advantage of the form factor. Multitasking is smoother than ever, allowing users to run multiple apps side by side. The interface adapts well to the folded or unfolded state, making the transition feel natural whether you’re using it as a regular phone or tablet.
Plus, with Android 14 at its core, the phone comes equipped with all of Google’s latest features and services, from integrated AI in Google Assistant to seamless updates and top-notch security measures.
Camera: The Google Pixel Magic Continues
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold continues Google’s tradition of excelling in the camera department. The rear camera setup includes a 48MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. While foldable phones often sacrifice camera quality for design, that’s not the case here.
The main camera performs exceptionally well in various lighting conditions, capturing sharp and detailed photos even in low light. Google’s computational photography enhancements, including Night Sight and Super Res Zoom, are here in full force, making it easier than ever to take stunning shots without fiddling with manual settings.
The front-facing camera is no slouch either. Whether you’re using the outer screen for selfies or the inner display for video calls, the 10.5MP camera delivers crisp and balanced images, proving that Google hasn’t overlooked the selfie experience in this foldable design.
Battery Life
Battery life in foldable devices has always been a challenge due to the demands of dual displays, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is no exception. It houses a 5000mAh battery, which should get you through a full day of moderate use, but power users who rely on the inner display for gaming, multitasking, or media might find themselves reaching for the charger by the evening.
Fortunately, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold supports fast charging and wireless charging, making it easier to top up the battery when you need it. Still, given the demands of the foldable form factor, the battery performance isn’t as impressive as some might hope.
Final Verdict
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a testament to Google’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of smartphone technology. Its refined design, powerful performance, and excellent camera capabilities make it a compelling option for those looking to embrace foldable technology without sacrificing the premium Pixel experience.
However, the foldable phone market is still maturing, and there are a few trade-offs to consider. The durability of foldable displays remains a concern, and while battery life is adequate, it may not be enough for heavy users. Additionally, with a premium price tag, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold isn’t the most budget-friendly option, especially when compared to traditional flagship devices.
In the end, if you’re an early adopter looking for a cutting-edge device that combines the best of Google’s software innovations with a foldable form factor, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is certainly worth your attention. But if you’re not ready to make the leap into foldables just yet, there are plenty of more conventional smartphones that offer similar performance at a lower price point.
Should You Buy It?
If you’re intrigued by foldable technology and want a device that excels in photography, performance, and Google’s signature clean Android experience, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a solid choice. However, if battery life and display durability are top priorities, it’s worth considering if the foldable form factor is a must-have for you.