The Pixel 9 Pro Fold certainly feels different. Its unique design, including the asymmetrical front screen, is surprisingly deliberate and functional. The extra bezel space allows for sturdier case attachments, such as Google’s official case, which firmly stays in place.
The folded device is impressively thin, outshining competitors like the iPhone 16 Pro even with a protective case. The form factor feels refreshing, setting it apart in a saturated market of foldables.
On the downside, some design choices feel less intuitive. For instance, the placement of the power button above the volume rocker led to constant mishaps. It’s something I still struggle to get used to after weeks of use. Additionally, the phone’s handling in one-handed mode is compromised compared to other foldables, though the expansive internal screen compensates with a stellar viewing experience.
Display & Performance
The 8-inch internal screen delivers a remarkable experience. With a 120Hz LTPO display boasting 2700 nits of brightness, everything from gaming to streaming feels immersive. Colors are vivid, and the smoothness of animations is undeniable. Yet, certain software issues hold back the display’s full potential. For instance, the lack of separate display customization for the outer and inner screens—a feature standard on competitors like the Galaxy Z Fold—feels limiting.
Minor software glitches were noticeable as well. Issues like inconsistent app scaling between displays and unresponsive internal screens at times detracted from the premium experience. While Android 15 addressed some concerns, such as app pairing, others like drag-and-drop functionality and triple app setups remain absent.
Camera
One area where the Pixel 9 Pro Fold shines is its camera. The 48MP main shooter paired with Google’s advanced image processing ensures stunning photos in almost any scenario. Features like Magic Eraser and “Add Me” bring creative possibilities, making this foldable a favorite for photography enthusiasts. The 5x telephoto lens also delivers impressive zoomed-in shots, rivaling even the iPhone 16 Pro.
Battery Life & Everyday Use
The battery life is another highlight. Even with heavy usage, the Pixel Fold easily lasts a full day, sometimes stretching into two days with lighter use. This is remarkable for a device with such a large screen. It handles streaming, browsing, and multitasking effortlessly, with no major dips in performance or overheating.
However, the absence of features like Samsung’s DeX and an underwhelming file management system were disappointing for productivity tasks. The lack of accessories in the box further underscored the compromises at this price point.
Softwares
Being a native Google device, I expected the Pixel Fold to deliver a near-flawless software experience. While the stock Android UI is smooth and clean, it lacks the depth and customization options of Samsung’s One UI. Small annoyances, such as the placement of the “Clear All” button in the app switcher and the inability to create app folders in the app drawer, added to the frustration.
Yet, there are redeeming features like the at-a-glance widget and haptic feedback, which make daily interactions enjoyable. The Magic Eraser tool and seamless wearable compatibility were also impressive, proving Google’s commitment to user experience in specific areas.
Is It Worth It?
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a phone of contrasts. Its design, display, and camera are standout features that make it a compelling choice for photography lovers and foldable enthusiasts. However, software inconsistencies and missing features prevent it from reaching its full potential. Priced at $1,500, it’s not without compromises, which can be hard to overlook when competitors offer more refined experiences.
Despite its flaws, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold remains a unique offering in the foldable market. If you value Google’s exceptional camera processing and appreciate the innovation in design, this phone is worth considering. However, for those seeking polished multitasking features and superior software flexibility, alternatives like the Galaxy Z Fold might be a better fit.
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