The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google’s ambitious second attempt at making its mark in the foldable smartphone market. Priced at ₹1,72,999 in India, this device competes with giants like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6, Vivo X Fold 3 Pro, and the OnePlus Open. It promises a premium design, AI-driven features, and Google’s signature software experience. However, does it truly deliver on its hefty price tag, or does it fall short? Let’s dive into the details.
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | ₹1,72,999 |
| Cover Display | 6.2-inch OLED, 1080×2424 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Main Display | 8.03-inch LTPO OLED, 2076×2152 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | Google Tensor G4 |
| RAM & Storage | 16GB RAM, 256GB storage |
| Cameras | 48MP (main), 10.8MP (telephoto), 10.5MP (ultra-wide), dual 10MP selfie cameras |
| Battery Capacity | 4,650mAh |
| Charging | 21W wired, 7.5W wireless |
| Software Updates | 7 years of Android updates |
| Weight | 257 grams |
| Durability | IPX8 water resistance |
Design: Slim Yet Heavy
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold stands out with its slim and minimalist design. Measuring 10.5mm thick when folded and 5.1mm when unfolded, it’s currently the slimmest foldable in India. However, its weight of 257 grams makes it less comfortable for prolonged use.
The build feels premium but delicate, especially around the hinge. Despite its IPX8 rating, the device lacks dust resistance, a drawback compared to Samsung’s foldables.
Display: A Visual Treat with Some Trade-Offs
| Display Type | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Cover Display | 6.2-inch OLED, 1080×2424 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Main Display | 8.03-inch LTPO OLED, 2076×2152 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Protection | Cover: Gorilla Glass Victus 2; Main: Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG) |
| Special Features | LTPO technology for smoother transitions and improved battery efficiency |
While the displays are vibrant and sharp, the thick bezels on the cover display and the noticeable crease on the main screen detract from the experience. Additionally, the squarish main display is great for multitasking but awkward for watching videos due to its aspect ratio.
Software: AI at Its Best
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold shines in its AI-driven features and software optimizations. Highlights include:
- Live Transcribe, which supports over 120 languages, ideal for travel.
- Dual-screen features that let you use front and rear cameras simultaneously for video calls.
- Playful animations on the cover screen to engage kids during photography.
However, limited multitasking capabilities make it less appealing for productivity-focused users.
Performance: A Letdown for Power Users
| Performance Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Google Tensor G4 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB |
| Gaming Performance | Smooth for casual games; struggles with high-end titles |
| Heat Management | Heats up under load, affecting sustained performance |
The Tensor G4 processor is underwhelming for a device at this price point. Benchmarks reveal it lags behind competitors like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 used in the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro.
Camera: Underwhelming for a “Pro” Device
| Camera | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, OIS |
| Telephoto Camera | 10.8MP, 5X optical zoom |
| Ultra-Wide Camera | 10.5MP |
| Selfie Cameras | Dual 10MP sensors |
| Special Features | AI tools, including Live HDR and Google’s Video Boost |
While the camera captures vibrant outdoor shots, it struggles in low light. The 5X optical zoom is decent for daylight photography but fails to impress in darker environments. The ultra-wide lens, with its limited field of view, feels like an afterthought.
Battery Life: Needs Improvement
| Battery | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 4,650mAh |
| Charging Speed | 21W wired, 7.5W wireless |
| Average Usage Time | One day on moderate use; less for heavy users |
The battery life is average at best, and the charging speeds are slow compared to rivals like the OnePlus Open.
Price Comparison with Competitors
| Device | Price in India | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 9 Pro Fold | ₹1,72,999 | AI-driven features, 7 years of updates |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 | ₹1,69,999 | Robust design, better multitasking |
| Vivo X Fold 3 Pro | ₹1,59,999 | Superior cameras, high performance |
| OnePlus Open | ₹1,49,999 | Lightweight, fast charging, and smooth multitasking |
Q&A Section
Q: What makes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold unique in the foldable market?
A: Its AI-driven features, such as Live Transcribe and playful animations, and long-term software updates distinguish it from competitors.
Q: Does the Pixel 9 Pro Fold support multitasking?
A: Yes, it supports running two apps side by side. However, it does not allow for three apps or a floating window, which some competitors offer.
Q: How does the camera perform in low light?
A: The main camera struggles in low-light conditions, delivering average results compared to competitors like the Vivo X Fold 3 Pro.
Q: Is it worth buying for gaming?
A: The Tensor G4 processor handles casual gaming well but struggles with demanding titles due to heating and performance throttling.
Q: Who should buy the Pixel 9 Pro Fold?
A: This device is suitable for Pixel enthusiasts who prioritize design, AI features, and software updates over raw performance and multitasking.
Q: What are the main drawbacks of this device?
A: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold falls short in performance, camera capabilities, multitasking options, and battery life, making it a less appealing choice for power users.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a strong contender in the foldable smartphone market, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design. Its exceptional camera performance, robust build quality, and seamless integration with Google’s software ecosystem make it a worthy choice for those seeking a premium device. However, the high price point may deter some buyers, especially when compared to other foldable options in the market.
At TREND 10, we strive to bring you honest and detailed reviews of the latest gadgets. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold showcases Google’s commitment to innovation, but whether it fits your needs depends on your priorities and budget. Keep following TREND 10 for more insights and reviews of the newest tech trends.