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Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold


8.4/10
Informr score
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold currently has an Informr score of 8.4 out of 10. This score is based on our evaluation of 51 sources including reviews from users and the web's most trusted critics.

The "1-Minute" Review

Verdict

An elegantly engineered foldable offering a large display and reliable performance, but faces competition in value from others.

What's good

  • Thin design
  • Bright display
  • Improved hinge
  • Long battery life
  • Solid camera features

What's bad

  • High price point
  • Charging speed
  • Software bugs
  • Heavy for some
  • Wireless charging issues

Design

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold stands out with its remarkably slim profile, measuring only 10.5mm when folded. This makes it comfortable to carry, akin to a regular smartphone.

The phone's matte finish on both the side rails and back gives it a premium feel, minimizing fingerprints and enhancing grip. Reviewers from 9to5Google appreciated this design choice, noting, "The matte side rails are grippy and easy to hold."

The hinge is robust, allowing the device to stay firmly at any angle, a feature praised by users for flexibility in use.

Display(s)

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's external display previews 6.3 inches, offering enough space for everyday tasks. Its sharp quality assures clear visibility, even under direct sunlight.

The foldable 8-inch inner screen is a true treat for media lovers. Reviewers note that streaming movies or reading books comes without missing details, thanks to the bright and bold colors presented on this wide display.

Despite the crease noticeable upon close inspection, users will likely overlook it after regular use, focusing instead on the brilliant visual experience.

Performance

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold takes a significant leap forward in performance compared to its predecessor, thanks to the new Tensor G4 chip and 16GB of RAM, which keep the phone running smoothly even under heavy load. Reviewers noted that everything runs stutter-free, making it highly efficient for daily use.

The thermal performance is also commendable, as the device rarely gets too warm even during demanding tasks, bringing you a comfortable experience. This means you can game, stream, and multitask without a hitch.

Though it may not match the raw power of some competitors, the device still delivers a fast and fluid smartphone experience that feels snappy and responsive. The practical performance upgrades make it a strong choice for anyone looking to balance productivity with entertainment.

Software & Storage

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs on Android 14, offering a straightforward experience with features designed for its foldable form.

You benefit from split-screen multitasking, allowing you to work with two apps side by side, enhancing productivity and efficiency.

The software leverages Google's AI capabilities, optimizing tasks and improving app interactions.

Note that the new features may take time to optimize fully, with some updates needed to enhance app compatibility and usage.

Cameras

The device includes a 48MP main camera, 10.5MP ultrawide, and 10.8MP telephoto lenses, offering great details in well-lit conditions. Meanwhile, Google's software ensures the captured images are consistently solid.

Reviewers have highlighted that despite not matching the Pixel 9 Pro's camera quality, the Fold is among the better options for foldables, with Night Sight and Video Boost enhancing its capabilities. As 9to5Google mentioned, it's "the best you’ll find on a foldable smartphone today."

The dual screen preview and rear camera selfie functions are helpful innovations in using the rear camera to take higher-quality selfies. Yet, given its cost, some might expect the Fold to match its flagship siblings in photographic quality.

Battery

If you're someone who uses your phone moderately, you'll appreciate the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's battery life. Experts agree it often matches or exceeds the Galaxy Z Fold 6 in endurance. The device can easily last through a full day, even with some power-draining activities like gaming or video calls.

Reviewers consistently point out a significant drawback: charging speed. "It's very disappointing to only have 21W charging in such a high-end device," experts lament.

Wireless charging becomes a bigger concern. Due to a poor coil alignment, finding a functional wireless charger can be tricky, leading to longer waiting times for a full charge. This makes tinkerers wish it had the faster wireless speeds of its rivals.

Audio

The dual speaker setup on the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold enhances your movie-watching and gaming experiences with vibrant and immersive sound. A review from '9to5Google' highlights its prowess, noting the device's speakers are "extremely loud and sound superb." This audio brilliance ensures every podcast, song, or video session becomes an event you'll love and want to repeat.

For making calls, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold doesn't compromise on clarity. Experts have mentioned that the microphone works effectively to catch every word you say. This means your conversations remain crystal clear, even in bustling places, making those important calls less of a struggle and more efficient.

The Bottom Line

This foldable design combines the functionality of a tablet and smartphone in one compact device, making it ideal for those wanting convenience and multitasking on the go. While the outer display offers ease of use like a regular smartphone, the extended internal screen enhances entertainment and productivity. The sturdy hinge and slim design add to its appeal, although its camera lags behind some competitors in both capability and quality. Even with premium features, the high price point and competitors' options should be weighed.


Android
Operating system
Operating system
Android
3.1 GHz
Processor
Processor
3.1 GHz
8"
Screen Size
Screen Size
8"
48+ MP, f/1.7
Camera
Camera
48+ MP, f/1.7
4650 mAh
Battery


What the Critics Are Saying...


TrustedReviews
TrustedReviews

As unique as its predecessor was, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a welcome reboot that is so much nicer to use for extended periods. Both screens are (mostly) great, the build is thinner and lighter and everything just feels more high-end.

- Max Parker, TrustedReviews
Business Insider
Business Insider

If you're after a foldable phone that opens into a tablet, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the top recommendation thanks to its design, build quality, cameras, large tablet display, and familiar exterior display. During testing, it was the easiest and most comfortable foldable phone I've used to date.

- Antonio Villas-Boas, Business Insider
Hothardware
Hothardware

Google’s new Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a winner. Alongside the Pixel 9 Pro/Pro XL, it represents a major turning point for Google. With these new handsets, the hardware is no longer playing second (or third) fiddle to the software. You’re getting the same premium, thin and light design as the OnePlus Open...

- Myriam Joire, Hothardware
Techaeris
Techaeris

Like the Samsung Galaxy Fold6, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a niche product. Foldables are still very cool to me and I think once Apple comes into the market, they will be more widely accepted. For now, I think the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has dethroned the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold as king of the foldables....

- Alex Hernandez, Techaeris
HardwareZone
HardwareZone

Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a nice foldable with excellent UI, photography, and secondary display, but its battery, performance, and high price severely limit its potential.

- Liu Hongzuo, HardwareZone


Prices (Where to Buy)




Common Questions


Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold prices will vary depending on retailer, age, special offers and whether or not it's purchased with a service plan. If purchased with a 2 year service contract for example, you would likely pay much less for the phone itself up front. Google's suggested retail price is $1799.00. You can compare Pixel 9 Pro Fold prices from around the web here on The Informr.


Google backs up the Pixel 9 Pro Fold with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.


If your Pixel 9 Pro Fold has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Google support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Google's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.



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Quick view

Screen Size
8"

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold's screen size is 8 inches with 2076 x 2152 pixels resolution.

Processor
3.1 GHz

There is a Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) Octa-core 3.1 GHz processor (CPU).

OS

The phone runs on the Android 14 operating system (OS).

Camera
48+ MP

You can take photos or capture video with the phone's onboard 48+ MP, f/1.7 camera.

There is also a secondary front facing camera useful for video chat and self portraits.

Storage
256/512 GB

Internal memory is 256/512 GB. No external card slot is available for expansion.

Battery
4650mAh

The phone is powered by a Lithium Polymer (Li-Pol), 4650 mAh battery. Google's performance ratings are 1671 minutes, 667 minutes Wi-Fi surfing.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold Specs

Overview
Release Date September 4, 2024
Regions Available USA, Canada, United Kingdom
Operating System Android 14

Compare Android Smartphones

Processor Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) Octa-core 3.1 GHz
Internal Storage 256/512 GB
RAM 16 GB
Hearing Aid Compatible Yes
TTY/TDD Yes
Noise Cancellation Yes
SAR Head: 0.98 W/kg
Body: 1.39 W/kg
Manufacturer Warranty 1 Year
Accessories Included Data Cable
Cellular
Networks
EDGE, HSPA+, LTE, 5G
Mobile / Cellular Data
5G, 4G/LTE
Push-to-talk (PTT) No
Wi-Fi Calling Yes
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) Yes
SIM
Nano-SIM, eSIM
Dual SIM Yes
Connectivity
USB USB Type-C
USB OTG Support Yes
Infrared No
Bluetooth 5.3
Bluetooth Profiles A2DP, AVRCP, OPP/FTP, HID, HFP, HSP, PAN
Bluetooth Audio Codecs SBC, aptX HD
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be
Mobile Hotspot Yes
Memory Expansion Slot No
NFC Yes
Data Tethering Compatibility Yes
Camera
Main Camera
Resolution / Aperture
48+ Megapixels, f/1.7, Wide
10.8+ Megapixels, f/3.1, Telephoto
10.5+ Megapixels, f/2.2, Ultrawide
Zoom
Yes
Flash
Yes (Dual LED)
Additional Rear Camera Info
Auto focus, Effects, Face detection, Geotagging, Image stabilization, ISO, Multi-shot, Night mode, Panorama, Self-timer
Video Recording Formats
MPEG-4
Video Recording Parameters
Ultra HD (3840 x 2160 pixels), 60 fps
Front Camera
Resolution / Aperture
10+ Megapixels, f/2.2, Wide, Inner camera
10+ Megapixels, f/2.2, Wide, Cover camera
Additional Front Camera Info
No
Video Recording Parameters
Ultra HD (3840 x 2160 pixels), 60 fps
Display / Screen
Type Color
Technology OLED
Colors 16.7 million
Resolution 2076 x 2152 pixels
Pixel Density 373 pixels
Size 8 inches
Secondary Display Color OLED, 1080 x 2424 pixels, 6.3 inches
Sensors Ambient Light, Proximity, Motion / Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Digital Compass
Multi-Touch Yes
Fingerprint-Resistant Coating No
Additional Display Features Capacitive touchscreen, 120Hz refresh rate, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, HDR10+
Power & Battery
Battery Type Lithium Polymer (Li-Pol)
Battery Capacity 4650 mAh
Removable Battery No
Wireless Charging Up to 7.5 W
Fast Charging Up to 45 W
Video Playback Time Up to 887 minutes
Internet Use (Wi-Fi) Up to 667 minutes
Internet Use (Cellular) Unknown
Talk Time Up to 1671 minutes
Standby Time Up to 10 days
Mixed Usage Up to 4320 minutes
Physical Characteristics
Design Type Bar
Material Aluminium
Colors Obsidian, Porcelain
Dimensions [H x W x D] 15.52 x 15.02 x 0.51 cm (6.1 x 5.9 x 0.2 in)
Weight 257 grams
Water Resistant / Waterproof Water Resistant
Rugged design No
IP Rating IP X8
Headset Jack No
External Speakers Stereo
Input / Navigation
Sleep / Wake Key Yes
Home Key No
Input / Keyboard Type Touchscreen
Navigation Type Touchscreen
External Volume Control Yes
Fingerprint Sensor Yes
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Additional Information Other Names (AKA):
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