Google has entered the foldable phone market with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, targeting the Swedish market. In the Nordic region, Samsung has been a dominant player, with our previous review of their Z Flip 6 available from last year. Motorola has also introduced foldable phones in recent years. However, only Samsung and Google currently offer devices in Sweden that unfold into small tablets. Today, we evaluate Google’s second iteration in the foldable category: the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
What is Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold?
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a foldable smartphone that opens horizontally, similar to a book. While vertical folding designs exist, reminiscent of older flip phones, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold impresses with its slim profile upon unboxing. When unfolded in tablet mode, it ranks among the thinnest devices we’ve tested. When folded, its thickness is comparable to that of a standard smartphone with a slim case. Google has also opted for a wider outer display compared to some competitors like Samsung, allowing for a seamless user experience akin to a conventional smartphone for the majority of everyday tasks.
The Screens
The primary feature of any foldable mobile is undoubtedly the screen. Starting with the 20:9 aspect ratio outer display, which offers a refresh rate of 60-120Hz, it serves as the primary interface for most tasks. Its performance and functionality align with user expectations for a standard smartphone display.
Unfolding the device reveals the larger inner screen, a near doubling in size compared to the outer display. While the pixel density is slightly lower, it remains imperceptible during normal use. This screen also boasts a variable refresh rate ranging from 1-120Hz. Both screens share the same brightness rating of 2700 nits, ensuring excellent visibility under bright sunlight. The crease along the inner screen’s fold becomes easily accustomed to and quickly fades from conscious notice.
What is Pixel 9 Pro Fold Like to Use?
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold clearly exhibits the characteristic Pixel experience. All familiar functions are present, and the outer screen provides an identical user experience to other Pixel phones we’ve reviewed, such as the Pixel 9a and Pixel 9 Pro XL. Readers seeking more in-depth information on these features are encouraged to consult those reviews. Here, we will concentrate on Google’s approach to the user experience specifically for a foldable device.
While manufacturers have successfully developed foldable screens, optimizing the user experience at the intersection of smartphone and tablet functionality has proven more challenging. Google appears to have prioritized a smartphone-first design that unfolds into a tablet, rather than a tablet that folds into a phone (as the experience with some competitors is sometimes described). Multitasking and tablet-mode operation are intuitive and well-integrated. Splitting the screen for concurrent tasks is seamless, and most applications function effectively in both modes. As an example, this entire review was composed on the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold using the default split keyboard in tablet mode. Although the initial paragraphs required some adjustment, writing speed approached that of a standard smartphone by the conclusion.
The Foldability, Useful or Gimmick?
Foldable phones introduce unique functionalities, and Google has implemented several. The hinge is designed to hold its position at various angles, allowing the Pixel 9 Pro Fold to function as its own stand for media consumption. The inner screen can be split in two and unfolded like a laptop, with the lower half serving as media controls, or the outer screen can be used in a tent-like configuration. Impressively, the device accurately anticipates the user’s intended mode. Another intuitive feature is the seamless transition between screens when opening or closing the phone. Opening the phone transfers the active app from the outer screen to the larger inner screen. Conversely, folding the phone while using the inner screen activates the screen lock instead of continuing playback on the outer screen. This functionality offers a natural and satisfying user experience reminiscent of older foldable phones.
The Camera
The camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold shares the same functions and interface as other Pixel 9 series phones we’ve reviewed. While the camera hardware specifications are not as advanced as the regular Pro model, it’s important to remember that software algorithms and processing play a crucial role in image quality. The included comparison image between the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Pixel 9a demonstrates the minimal difference in results. One distinct advantage of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the ability to utilize the main camera for high-quality selfies in unfolded mode, with the outer screen serving as a viewfinder. This feature will be particularly appealing to users who prioritize selfie image quality.
Conclusion
Initially, we approached the Pixel 9 Pro Fold with skepticism regarding the true utility of a foldable phone. Its high price and niche appeal raised doubts about its practicality. However, our initial reservations proved unfounded. Its slim design allows it to function effectively as a standard smartphone for most daily tasks, while providing tablet functionality when desired. In fact, it has effectively replaced the need for a separate tablet in our daily routine. While the cost is significant (approximately 18000 kronor at the time of writing, a substantial price for a phone), it aligns with the price range of flagship smartphones from manufacturers like Apple. Considering the added cost of a complementary tablet, the versatile Pixel 9 Pro Fold presents a compelling value proposition. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a versatile tool suitable even for someone like MacGyver, and we highly recommend it.
Google provided test samples for this review. The providers of materials do not influence our editorial process.
