Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Second-generation folding phone

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a big step forward in folding smartphone technology. It combines Google’s AI skills with new hardware design.It is Google’s second-generation folding phone, and its goal is to fix problems from the first one and set new standards for the market.

Key Specifications

• Display: 8.0-inch Super Actua inner screen (2152 x 2076) with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate; 6.3-inch Actua cover display (2424 x 1080)
• Processor: Google Tensor G4 with Titan M2 security co-processor
• RAM: 16GB LPDDR5X
• Storage: 256GB UFS 4.0
• Rear Cameras: 48MP main, 10.5MP ultra-wide, 10.8MP telephoto (5x optical zoom)
• Front Cameras: 10MP (inner), 10MP (cover)
• Battery: 4,650mAh with 45W wired charging and Qi wireless charging support
• Operating System: Android 14 with seven years of OS upgrades
• Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB Type-C
• Dimensions: Folded: 6.1″ x 3.0″ x 0.4″; Unfolded: 6.1″ x 5.9″ x 0.2″
• Weight: 257g
• Water Resistance: IPX8

Unboxing Experience

Just like Google goes hard on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, so too do I in this unboxing. So here’s what you can find when you open the box:

Packaging Design

Google has also kept the packaging of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold neat and minimal, with a strong focus on sustainability. In an effort to save the nature, Google chosen environmentally friendly materials to make the packaging, paper and cardboard is being used here. From the outer packaging itself, well presented with a clean white design, the Google logo and a high-quality photo of the device and a premium feel is immediately felt.

Inside the Box

When you open the lid, you’ll see:

The Device: You see the unfolded Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which gives you an immediate feel for its expansive interior display. It comes with a protective sleeve without any scratching when you put it in.

Accessories:

• USB-C to USB-C Cable: For charging and data transfer.
• Getting Started: A brief guide to help you get your new device set up.
• SIM Ejector Tool: The doodad that opens the SIM card tray.
• One big difference: the package lacks a charging brick, a move consistent with recent trends in the industry prioritizing environmental responsibility.

First Impressions

You can feel the build quality every time you pick up the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. It feels plenty solid but light compared to the previous generation. Inspired by the rich sheen of Obsidian Black, the finish highlights the sleek lines and modern aesthetic.

The hinge mechanism is seamless transitioning with minimal friction whether folded or unfolded. The interior display is colorful with impressive resolution, so you can work or consume entertainment in style.

If you prefer a video explanation of the unboxing process, check this one out.We also take a close look at the unboxing process, giving you partial may not notice in this device.

Unboxing Conclusion: Overall experience of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold unboxing just like with other Google products just struck me as premium. Right from opening the box, it’s clear that Google wants to excel in the details and make you happy.

Design, Build Quality, and Handling

The curved sides and aluminium frame of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold give it a sleek look that makes it look both classy and sturdy.The 6.3-inch screen with a 20:9 aspect ratio makes it easy to use with one hand, and it folds up like a normal smartphone display.It feels like a tablet when you open it up and see a big 8.0-inch screen running inside.

Still, it is easy to use even though it weighs 257 grammes more than most smartphones.It is easier to carry and feels better to touch now that the device can fold flat thanks to the new hinge system.It lasts longer and is safer from accidental splashes because it has an IPX8 grade for water resistance.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold marks an evolution in smartphone design, from the way we interact with our devices to the capabilities and power under the hood. This foldable is purpose-designed with user experience in mind — an unrivalled design, build and handling experience.

The Gracious Design: Where Function Meets Form

These design upgrades are visually appealing at first sight and changes to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s appearance make a big impact on usability. When flipped over, it showcases a 6.3-inch outer display that provides the usual smartphone experience. When unfolded, it features a spacious internal display of 8-inch Super Actua Flex, allowing the device to serve as a tablet. Our dual-display design offers a touch screen for casual use, as well as an accompanying screen for professionals.

The device also sports two new colors: Porcelain, a light, off-white color and Obsidian, a very dark charcoal gray. These options embrace a minimalist design ethos, catering to users seeking refinement without ostentation.

Construction: A Pillar of Engineering

When expanded, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a thickness of 5.1 mm, making it the thinnest foldable smartphone; its thickness is 10.5 mm when folded. This svelte profile helps with surface appeal but also means it’s highly portable, so you can use it in different settings too.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold material is built on durability. Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protects the external and internal displays, providing strong resistance to scratches and accidental drops. With an IPX8 rating, the device is water-resistant to a degree, allowing peace of mind for everyday usability.

• Also Read: Galaxy Z Flip 5 Water Resistance: How do They Fit? That is, users can flip from folded to unfolded and back again, and the hinge is designed to last through the constant motion with no performance degradation.

Handling: User-Centric Design

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold emphasizes ergonomics in its design. When folded, the weight of the device is distributed evenly throughout so that you can comfortably use it single-handedly, and when unfolded the weight allows for a grip during use without the volume of the device demanding more than you can effectively hold. Another useful feature is that the matte back panel is more aesthetic and it is also a better surface for grip so more drop resistant.

Unlike some rivals, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a wider front display, which provides a more natural and comfortable interface for typing, browsing, and media consumption. This is also unlike many narrower external displays, which often gives rise to usability issues.

Final Words: A Work Of Art In Contemporary Smartphone Design

THE GOOGLE PIXEL 9 PRO FOLD: WHERE INNOVATION MEETS DESIGN Its intelligent aesthetics, solid ruggedness, and experience-driven handling make it an obvious option if you’re after a proper high-end foldable smartphone. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is crafted to cater to every need, exploding the bounds of portable tech for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Display, Battery Life, and Charging Speed

The 8.0-inch Super Actua inner display has bright colours and clear features, and can reach a maximum brightness of 2,700 nits, so it can be read in bright light.The adaptive refresh rate of 120Hz makes moving and touching the screen smooth. The quality of the 6.3-inch cover display is about the same, which lets you do quick jobs without having to unfold the device.

The 4,650mAh battery in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold makes it easy for it to last all day with light use.At 45W, you can charge it wired, and in 30 minutes, it will be about 50% charged.You can also use Qi wireless charging, but the coil’s setting might not work with all wireless chargers, which could hurt the speed of charging.

Data on this model already disposable without a protective layer, and is build on the base with, up to Oct 2023 With a perfect blend of form and function, this foldable smartphone is meant for not just productivity freaks but also multimedia lovers.

Display: A Visual Marvel

Mainly below the specification of dual-display configuration powered with Pixel 9 Pro Fold so that users can enjoy maximum overall readability.

Outer Display: The outer display on the folded device has a resolution of 1080 x 2424 pixels and it’s an Actua OLED display with a 20:9 aspect ratio and 422 PPI pixel density. The refresh rate on this display can differ anywhere from 60Hz to 120Hz, and getting that is an absolute treat for smooth web browsing or video content. The display is covered in Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 which provides additional scratch and drop resistance.

Internal Display: A huge 8.0-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2076 x 2152 pixels, resulting in an approximate pixel density of 373 PPI, greets you as you unfold the device. Its near-square (1:1) aspect ratio is perfect for a tablet-like experience for multitasking, gaming, and watching media. The internal screen also supports up to a 120Hz refresh and HDR content for colors that pop and motion that’s fluid. Both displays are designed to achieve extreme brightness, with peak brightness levels up to 2700 nits for use in direct sunlight.

Battery life: A long-lasting companion for the modern era

There is also a 4,650mAh battery inside the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which should comfortably last all day. Under normal use, Google says the device should last over 24 hours on a charge, or up to 72 hours with the Extreme Battery Saver mode turned on.

In practical tests, users reported great battery, too. Specifically, in heavy use cases, the device has almost 45% battery left at 4.5 to 5 hours of active usage, a strong endurance for some heavy work.

Charging Speed: The Tension Between Efficiency and Convenience

For charging when the battery does get low, Pixel 9 Pro Fold supports up to 21W wired charging through the Power Delivery 3.0 spec. While not nearly as fast as the charging of some competitors, this guarantees a full charge in about 1hr 35mins. Charging from 0-80% takes about 40 minutes to achieve but usually refills less than half of the battery in a typical 30 minute session, something that may affect users who want faster top-up times.

The retail package, however, does not come with a charger, so users will either have to use a compatible charger they already have or buy one separately. It also supports Qi-certified wireless charging, so, if you want, you can go cable free when charging your device.

Conclusion

With a dual-display concept for a premium experience, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is designed for diversified user preferences. Battery life is also impressive, and will power you through long sessions, while charging speeds, though not as speedy as some competitors, are still solid and deliver predictable, consistent performance. With these features, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold looks to make a strong case for users in search of an adaptable and reliable foldable phone.

Software and Performance

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs on Android 14 and has a clean interface with Material You design features that let you make a lot of changes.The 16GB of RAM and Tensor G4 processor make sure that all jobs run smoothly, from gaming to multitasking.With features like real-time language translation and advanced voice commands, Google’s AI integration, which is driven by Gemini, makes the user experience better.

It is easier to use two apps at the same time with software tools like split-screen multitasking that are optimised for the foldable structure.Although, some users might think that the software does not fully utilise the big internal display for productivity tasks, making the multitasking features less advanced compared to competitors.

With a perfect synergy of its capable software with a powerful hardware, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the next big thing in the world of smartphones. The foldable device is designed to ignite upon productivity but also enrich with entertainment, featuring a dual structure that meets practicality with innovation.

Software: The Music of Innovation & User Experience

The software smarts behind the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is largely tied to its integration with Gemini, Google’s new-generation AI platform. This cutting-edge AI engine opens the door to a world of intelligent features that enrich user interaction, making the device more intuitive and responsive. Gemini Advanced grants users early access to cutting-edge functionalities and extensive 2TB cloud storage, accommodating all of your data.

Its two-screen setup also gives it unique software capabilities. Among them is the Dual Screen on Meet, which allows both the front and inner cameras to be used at the same time during video calls. This allows for sharing from a visible perspective in a more interactive and engaging manner. To a degree, this is down to how clean the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s user interface is, which Google is always good about. There is out of box experience with minimal setup, it is almost bloatware free so you can customize it more. Keep in mind, however, that not all apps are optimized for the foldable display, which may result in letterbox or unused screen real estate.

Performance: Titan Specifications for Easy Functioning

On the inside firing the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the latest Google Tensor G4 processor paired with a whopping 16GB of RAM. This combination guarantees that the device is able to multitask without issue, delivering a smooth and responsive user experience even when demanding apps or multiple processes are open at the same time.

It has been praised for its usage in a real-world setting; not only around the office but also with its speed and power. The touch here, for both external and internal displays, works brilliantly — seated at number one on a list of the best, if not the best, phone touch experience ever. Foldable screen technology carries a lot of complexity with it and this is particularly impressive.

So while the other flagship models make a bit of a compromise, this one feels pretty clearly superior in some areas, but also inferior in others. One or two features on the Pixel 9 Pro made its way to the Fold variant, so this could likely help some customers decide before making a purchase.

Focusing on the User Experience: Innovation or Practical

With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, this design allows for a different way of interactive, switching between a smartphone and a tablet as needed. This is especially helpful for multitasking, as the large internal display enables users to operate multiple applications in a split window format, resulting in greater productivity.

The device’s innovative new design fits a rectangular form factor that still feels comfortable to hold in the hand when folded, feeling quite like a traditional smartphone. The fact that these devices, despite their foldability, wouldn’t require users to sacrifice comfort or familiarity, enables a smoother transition to a foldable device.

Ultimately, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold takes an impressive approach, taking one of the most innovative foldable devices and combining it with some advanced software features as well as powerful hardware performance to create a well-rounded device. Despite some sacrifices compared with other flagship devices, though, the benefits of its foldable design and AI-driven functionality offer a new level of convenience to technology amateurs looking for a state-of-the-art smartphone experience.

Camera, Photo, and Video Quality

There is a 48MP main sensor, a 10.5MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10.8MP macro lens with 5x optical zoom on the back camera.Even though the camera system takes sharp, colourful pictures in a variety of lighting situations, it is not quite as good as the Pixel 9 Pro XL.It works pretty well in low light, but there is some noise that you can hear.

You can take videos in up to 4K at 60 frames per second, and stabilisation makes sure the videos are smooth.Both of the front cameras are 10MP, which is good enough for pictures and video calls but not great.

The innovative design of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is matched in its capability as one of the most advanced foldable smartphone technologies on the market up until October 2023. Designed for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike, this device promises high-quality imaging experience with versatility.

A Deep Dive into the Camera Features

Pixel 9 Pro Fold comes with a high-end camera system that is used to take great looking pictures of everything, anywhere. Some of the core features are:

• The standard camera: A 48-megapixel sensor that gives you sharp, detailed images.
• Ultra-Wide Camera: A 10.5-megapixel sensor allows you to capture wide scenes that are great for landscape shots and group photos.
• Telephoto Camera: High-magnification 10.8-megapixel sensor with a 5x optical zoom for a false perspective close-up without loss of quality.
• Image Quality: Where Excellence Meets All Use Cases

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s camera system performs well across diverse lighting conditions in the real world:

• Day time Photography: The main camera is capable of clicking images with a good detail, accurate colour reproduction, and balanced exposure. It handles stark contrasts in images just fine, too, for nice bright lights and deep shadows.
• Low Light Photography: With robust computational photography capabilities, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold shines in low-light situations. On the other hand, users of the telephoto and ultra-wide lenses have noted these images can lack sharpness as well, compared to images from other lenses in lower-light settings like these.
• Zoom Capabilities: The 5x optical zoom enables high-quality close-ups with great detail and low noise. However, there might be some loss in image quality at increased zoom levels.

Video Recording: HD Recording, but With Potential for Improvement

The video recording features of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold are strong:

• Resolution and Frame Rates: 4K video recording at multiple frame rates translates to smooth, crisp footage that pleases even casual viewers.
• Stabilization: It has electronic image stabilization to correct for camera shake and make sure videos are smooth and stable. Some users have also found that while stabilization is enabled, telephoto video can be slightly jarring.
• Lens Transition: The change of lenses while recording is smooth but can be improved for seamless transitions.

Comparison with other models: Surviving amongst competitions

When compared to its peers:

• Pixel 9 Pro: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s cameras resemble those of the Pixel 9 Pro, but are not identical. And the results are mostly great, although low-light shots from the ultra-wide and telephoto cameras do lack the same sharpness seen on the Pixel 9 Pro.
• Market Alternatives: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold competes well with other premier foldables, providing a strong mix of versatility and image performance.
• Conclusion: A Powerful Resource for Photographers

The camera system of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers most photography situations very versatile high-quality options. However, for a device that can divide opinions on the foldability factor, it is coming of age into being one of the best foldable devices you would not mind carrying around if you’re passionate about photography as much as you are about holding the future at your hands.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Elegant and durable design
• Vibrant and expansive inner display
• Smooth performance with AI enhancements
• Decent battery life with fast charging
• IPX8 water resistance

Cons:

• Heavier than standard smartphones
• Camera quality lags behind non-foldable counterparts
• Limited wireless charging compatibility
• Multitasking features could be more robust
• High price point

Price and Availability

In India, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold costs ₹1,72,999, which makes it one of the costlier folding phones available. You can buy it at stores like Flipkart, Croma, and Reliance Digital.You can get the device in two colours: Obsidian (a dark colour) and Porcelain (an off-white colour).

Just a few moments ago the Flip Launch event of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold started in India, a landmark Launch of Googles South Asian expansion. You can purchase this foldable device through a variety of authorized retailers and online platforms.

Pricing Details

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is priced at ₹1,72,999 for the 256 GB storage option with 16 GB RAM. This pricing makes it positioning as a premium offering in the Indian market. However, retailers such as Flipkart are showing the device at this price point, along with additional offers such as a ₹10,000 discount on HDFC Bank credit card EMI transactions. Likewise, Reliance Digital is also selling the device at the same pricing with several EMI and bank offers.

Availability

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold can easily be purchased in India from various places:

• Buy from Online Retailers: The device is currently available on platforms such as Flipkart and Reliance Digital with different payment methods like EMI plans and bank-specific discounts.
• Physical Stores:Google continues to also increase its physical retail footprint in India, with plans to launch its first ever company-run stores in New Delhi and Mumbai this year. They will open in the next six months and join a growing number of stores from other retailers that allows customers to try and buy Google products.

Launch Timeline

On August 13, 2024, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold was officially launched at the “Made by Google” event, and shortly after, it hit the Indian market.

Considerations

Although the Pixel 9 Pro Fold features state-of-the-art hardware and a uniquely foldable design, its cost is worth mentioning as well. With a price tag of ₹1,72,999, it is the most pricey foldable phone available in India now. It may be worth comparing it to other flagship foldable offerings, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, to see which device meets their needs and budget.

Is It Available in India?

India has the Pixel 9 Pro Fold available.It was released on August 14, 2024, and big stores began offering it on September 4, 2024.

Final Verdict: The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a high-end device that does a great job with design, display, and software support. It is a great choice for tech fans and workers who want a durable foldable phone that will still work in the future. But the camera quality and inability to do more than one thing at once may not make the high price worth it for everyone.

Yes, The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold sold in India. The device can be bought from various authorized online sellers like Flipkart and Croma. Pricing for the device EDIT follows the 256 GB storage + 16 GB RAM variant for ₹1,72,999. Furthermore, Flipkart has revealed additional benefits, which includes a discount of ₹10,000 on HDFC Bank credit card EMI transactions.

In addition, Google plans to expand its physical retail footprint in India by opening its first company-directed stores in New Delhi and Mumbai over the next half year. The idea behind this expansion is to give customers direct access to Google products and services.

To get a better feel for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s specifications and performance, you may want to check out the following video review:

Why Should You Buy It?

• Cutting-edge Technology: This is the best option for people who want the newest and best folding design with strong software support.
• Display and Portability: Offers a high-quality display and a lightweight, durable build that enhances its portability​.

Why Should You Not Buy It?

• Cost vs. Value: The high cost might not provide the best value for everyone, especially if camera and multitasking capabilities are priorities​.
• Software Limitations: The inability to do more than one thing at once could be a deal-breaker for people who need their devices to be more productive.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the only folding phone of its type, but it might only be suitable for some people who need expected adaptive features.