Evaluation of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Foldable Device Tailored for Every User

Evaluation of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Foldable Device Tailored for Every User

Evaluation of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Foldable Device Tailored for Every User


# Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Review: The Foldable Device for All

The market for foldable smartphones has expanded greatly in recent times, and Google has made a significant entry with its Pixel Fold series. The most recent model, the **Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold**, showcases Google’s dedication to enhancing the foldable experience. Though it may not be flawless, it presents a fascinating alternative to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, particularly for users who are fans of Google’s software ecosystem. In this review, we’ll explore the advantages, disadvantages, and everything else surrounding this device.

## Android Central Verdict
**Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars**

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a nearly impeccable enhancement over its predecessor, resolving various issues users experienced with the initial Pixel Fold. While it still presents a few drawbacks, such as the absence of stylus support and slightly disappointing performance, it marks a substantial advancement for Google’s aspirations in the foldable segment.

### Pros:
– **Brilliant and vivid screens**: Both the exterior and interior displays are impressive, providing outstanding brightness and color fidelity.
– **Revamped design**: The updated design appears more luxurious and polished compared to the earlier version.
– **Excellent battery performance**: Even as a foldable device, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold delivers notable battery endurance.
– **Effortless split-screen multitasking**: Running apps in split-screen format is fluid and boosts productivity.

### Cons:
– **Absence of stylus support**: Unlike the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold lineup, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold does not offer stylus compatibility, which might deter some users.
– **Performance could be enhanced**: Although the Tensor G4 chip is tailored for efficiency, it doesn’t quite reach the performance levels of Qualcomm’s most recent chips.
– **Outdated camera components**: Despite Google’s software capabilities, the camera hardware has not experienced major enhancements.
– **Issues with wireless charging**: The device might not work with all wireless charging pads, including Google’s own Pixel Stand.
– **High price point**: With an entry cost of $1,799, it’s quite a significant investment.

## Price and Availability

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold was officially unveiled at the Made by Google event on **August 13, 2024**, along with other Pixel products, including the Pixel 9 series, Pixel Buds Pro 2, and Pixel Watch 3. The foldable device is available in two storage options:

– **256GB**: $1,799
– **512GB**: $1,919

Both variants come equipped with **16GB of RAM** and are offered in two colors: **Obsidian** and **Porcelain**.

## Design and Displays

A key feature of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is its **revamped design**. Google has evidently listened to feedback from its initial foldable and implemented substantial upgrades. The device presents a more premium feel, with a sleek and polished appearance that distinguishes it from the previous model.

### Cover and Inner Displays
– **Cover Display**: 6.3-inch Actua OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1080 x 2424 resolution, and 2700 nits brightness.
– **Inner Display**: 8-inch Super Actua Flex display featuring a 120Hz LTPO AMOLED, 2076 x 2152 resolution, and 2700 nits brightness.

Both displays are **luminous, colorful, and highly responsive**, making them perfect for watching media, gaming, and multitasking. The inner display folds completely flat, with a crease that is hardly noticeable, significantly improving upon the first Pixel Fold.

### Build Quality
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a robust feel but is notably **slippery**, making it somewhat tricky to handle without a case. While it can endure a few drops, users may wish to purchase a protective case to safeguard the elegant design.

## Performance

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold operates on Google’s **Tensor G4 chip**, which, although designed for efficiency, does not quite reach the performance capabilities of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. In daily tasks, the phone performs admirably, but it struggles in more resource-intensive applications, like gaming or high-demand multitasking.

### Benchmark Comparisons
| **Geekbench 6** | **Pixel 9 Pro Fold** | **Galaxy Z Fold 6** | **OnePlus Open** |
|—————–|———————-|———————|——————|
| **Single-Core** | 1907 | 2032 | 1079 |
| **Multi-Core** | 4115 | 6100 | 4249 |
| **GPU (Vulkan)** | 7813 | 13778 | 8924 |

Though the Pixel 9 Pro Fold performs well in most situations