Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold review

Trade in Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

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The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a dramatic shift from the original Pixel Fold, marking one of the most significant evolutions in smartphone design and functionality in recent years. Google has clearly gone back to the drawing board, rethinking everything from the form factor to the internal specs, resulting in a device that feels like a true leap forward.

This new iteration is not just a minor upgrade but a radical transformation, showcasing impressive changes that set it apart from its predecessor. Whether it’s the refined hardware, innovative features, or enhanced user experience, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a bold statement from Google, signaling their commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in foldable phone technology.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• The main display is now 8 inches up from 7.6 inches, making this the biggest screen on a foldable — and it’s 80% brighter
• The 6.3-inch cover screen is still plenty wide but with a narrower aspect ratio to easily slip into a pocket.
• At 0.2 inches thick open and 0.4 inches closed, this is one of the thinnest foldables on Earth.
• Weighing a little bit more than 9 ounces, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is refreshingly lighter
• The AI features are actually more impressive than gimmicky with quick results, thanks to the Tensor G4 chip

It seems like Google took all the feedback from the original Pixel Fold and set out to address every point with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The approach appears to be methodical, as if they compiled a checklist of areas for improvement and then systematically tackled each one.

In terms of the cameras, Google didn’t go for a complete overhaul, but they’ve made some meaningful enhancements. The inclusion of an improved ultrawide camera with a dedicated macro mode is a welcome addition, and Google’s promise of better panoramic photos, especially in low light, indicates a focus on refining the photography experience — an area where the original Pixel Fold already performed well.

The big question is whether these improvements are enough to place the Pixel 9 Pro Fold on the best foldable phone list. While full testing will be needed to draw definitive conclusions, early impressions suggest that this device has the potential to compete strongly with leading foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the OnePlus Open.

The initial hands-on experience is promising, indicating that Google has made the necessary changes to offer a foldable that’s not just an iteration but a significant step forward. The real test will be in how these enhancements perform in everyday use, but it certainly looks like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is ready to give its competitors a run for their money.

GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: SPECS

GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: PRICE AND RELEASE DATE

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It sounds like you’re quite intrigued by the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, especially with how it’s shaping up compared to its competitors. The pricing is definitely a significant factor, and it looks like Google has made some thoughtful improvements based on feedback from the first Pixel Fold. Are there any specific features or aspects of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold that you’re particularly interested in exploring further?

GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: DESIGN

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The changes Google made to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold really seem to address the main issues people had with the original Pixel Fold. The narrower front display and taller main display not only improve the aesthetics but also enhance usability. It sounds like Google has made significant strides in making this device more competitive in the foldable market, especially with that 8-inch display and better app compatibility.

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The improvements in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s design seem to have really impressed you! The thinner, lighter build and the flat-folding display definitely address some of the key concerns from the original Pixel Fold. The new hinge and materials also suggest Google is serious about durability, which is crucial for foldable devices. It’s shaping up to be a strong competitor in the foldable market!

(Image credit: Future)

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold certainly brings some significant improvements over its predecessor, with features like the flat-folding display, reduced weight, and enhanced durability with the new stainless steel hinge. The design tweaks, like the taller main display and narrower front display, seem to address some of the biggest complaints about the original Pixel Fold. It’s impressive how much Google has refined the foldable experience in just one generation.

The only drawback might be the large camera block, which could impact the overall aesthetic compared to the sleeker camera bars on other Pixel 9 Pro models. But overall, it sounds like Google has delivered a solid contender in the foldable market with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. How does this compare to your experiences with other foldables?

GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: DISPLAYS

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It’s great to hear your thoughts on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s design and display improvements. The enhancements, especially with the larger, brighter screen and refined cover display, seem to make a big difference in the overall experience. It’s impressive how Google addressed so many issues from the original Pixel Fold, making the new model more competitive in the foldable market. The fact that the crease is less noticeable and the device remains comfortable to hold despite its size is a significant win.

GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: CAMERAS

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It’s interesting that Google chose to stick with similar camera hardware for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold while focusing on refining the experience with features like the improved ultrawide camera and the new macro mode. This approach suggests that Google is confident in its existing camera technology but wants to enhance its versatility. The ability to capture sharp close-ups with the macro mode is a nice touch, especially for those who enjoy detailed photography.

(Image credit: Future)

It sounds like you’re really enjoying the new features on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, especially the improvements in the panorama mode and the macro capabilities of the ultrawide camera. The tweaks Google made, like the brighter display and refined design, seem to have really addressed the issues with the original Fold. It’ll be interesting to see how the enhanced panorama mode performs in low light, given the promise of better results.

(Image credit: Future)

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s front camera boasts 10MP, and the inner camera has been upgraded to 10MP from its previous 8MP. To make capturing photos of kids more enjoyable, the “Made You Look” feature offers playful animations on the front screen, easily activated with multiple options available.

As for video recording, Google assures that Night Sight video will enhance footage in low-light settings, with AI working to minimize noise in your videos.

GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: AI FEATURES

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With AI features becoming ubiquitous in smartphones, there’s a competitive race to see how many can be integrated into a single device. Google pioneered this trend and appears to be emphasizing quality over sheer numbers. This is made possible by the Tensor G4 chip paired with an impressive 16GB of RAM.

A notable example is the innovative “Add Me” feature for group portraits. You start by taking a standard photo, and then you can use an augmented reality overlay to add another person to the image (such as the original photographer).

Simply align the individual, capture the additional shot, and — voilà — the Pixel 9 Pro Fold seamlessly merges the images. The result is a surprisingly realistic group photo with excellent detail and depth.

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Another impressive AI photo feature is Reimagine, which leverages generative AI to modify your photos in real-time based on text prompts. For instance, I selected the ocean in a photo of a biker and entered “make the waves bigger.” After a few seconds, I was presented with several enhanced options.

If you prefer creating entirely new images, the Pixel Studio app is your tool. Simply type in your desired scene — such as “cats shooting lasers out of their eyes” — and you’ll receive a quick result. However, note that Google is currently excluding people from this feature.

(Image credit: Future)

I explored a few more AI features on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Pixel Screenshots allows you to search through your screenshots using natural language, making it easy to locate specific images. You can also perform various actions directly from a screenshot, like taking a concert poster and instantly adding the date to Google Calendar. Quite inventive.

Additionally, I had a brief demonstration of the new Google Gemini Live, which offers multiple voice options and facilitates lifelike conversations on a broad array of topics. It’s akin to Siri but with a smarter, more human touch.

GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: BATTERY AND CHARGING

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One concern I have about the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is its battery life. It features a 4,560 mAh battery, which is smaller than the 4,821 mAh battery in the previous Fold model. I’m hoping the new Tensor G4 chip will offer improved efficiency.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold supports a 45W charger, but Google hasn’t provided specific information about charging times. This is where our testing will be crucial.

GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: OUTLOOK

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The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold might have a cumbersome name, but it largely lives up to it with the significant updates Google has implemented. It features an expansive main display in a sleek, slim design that’s more portable, a robust Tensor G4 chip, and impressive AI capabilities that make Apple’s offerings seem modest by comparison.

I also value the redesigned aspect ratio for the displays and the subtle camera enhancements. However, my main criticism is that, despite the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s solid camera specs, it falls short compared to the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. The latter models offer more powerful 48MP ultra-wide and telephoto lenses, compared to the Fold’s 10MP lenses, and they also provide a longer 30x digital zoom.

Still, I’m enthusiastic about the advancements Google has introduced with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. It’s not only the most improved foldable device but also potentially the new standard in foldable phones.

Source: Tom’s Guide