The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant step forward for Google in the realm of foldable smartphones. It’s a device that marries the cutting-edge innovation of foldable technology with Google’s refined software experience, making it an appealing option for both tech enthusiasts and those looking for a versatile, everyday phone.

Design and Display: Premium and Practical

One of the standout features of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is its design. Google has crafted a foldable that’s both sleek and practical. The 8-inch OLED main display is vibrant, with a 120Hz refresh rate that ensures smooth scrolling and a great viewing experience, whether you’re consuming media or multitasking across multiple apps. The 6.3-inch cover screen is equally impressive, making the phone usable even when folded, a feature that’s essential for a device in this category.

The build quality is another area where Google has excelled. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is lighter and slimmer than its predecessor, and the hinge mechanism feels sturdy, giving confidence that it can withstand the daily fold and unfold routine without issues. The use of Gorilla Glass Victus 2 adds to its durability, although the lack of dust resistance (it’s only rated IPX8 for water resistance) might be a concern for some.

Performance: Powered by Google’s Tensor G4

Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chipset. While this chip might not outperform the latest from Qualcomm in raw benchmarks, it’s optimized well for Google’s software ecosystem. The 16GB of RAM and 256GB or 512GB of storage options ensure that the phone handles multitasking and storage needs efficiently. However, some power users might find that the chipset doesn’t hold up as well under heavy loads compared to competitors like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, especially in gaming or intensive applications.

Battery life is decent with a 4,650mAh battery, supporting up to 72 hours with Extreme Battery Saver mode, although in regular use, you’re more likely to get through a day and a half before needing to charge. Charging speeds are not industry-leading, with 27W wired and 15W wireless charging, but they are sufficient for most users.


When folded, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is probably the thinnest foldable phone I have ever had the pleasure of testing.

Cameras: A Mixed Bag of Innovation and Familiarity

The camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is both a highlight and a slight letdown. Google has equipped it with a 48MP main sensor, a 10.5MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10.8MP telephoto camera capable of 5x optical zoom. The main camera excels in various lighting conditions, delivering sharp, vibrant images that Pixel users have come to expect. The ultra-wide camera also performs well, although the drop in resolution compared to the main sensor is noticeable.

Where the Pixel 9 Pro Fold truly shines is in its AI-powered photo features. Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and the new Magic Editor are just a few tools that allow you to edit and enhance your photos directly on the device with impressive results. However, despite these innovations, the camera system doesn’t represent a significant upgrade over the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which might leave some users questioning the value of the higher price point.

Software Experience: The Best of Android in a Foldable Form

Google’s Android 14, tailored specifically for the foldable experience, is another area where the Pixel 9 Pro Fold excels. The software takes full advantage of the foldable form factor, with features like split-screen multitasking and app continuity working seamlessly. Google’s clean, bloatware-free approach to Android continues to make it an attractive option for those who appreciate a smooth and intuitive user interface.

Moreover, the promise of seven years of software updates, including major Android versions, security patches, and exclusive Pixel Feature Drops, ensures that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will remain current well into the future.

Conclusion: A Tempting Alternative to the iPhone

In conclusion, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a remarkable device that pushes the boundaries of what a smartphone can be. Its innovative design, combined with Google’s software prowess, makes it a strong contender in the foldable market. While it’s not without flaws—such as the high price tag, the Tensor G4’s occasional performance hiccups, and a camera system that’s more iterative than groundbreaking—it still stands out as one of the most compelling foldables available today.

For someone like me, who has been entrenched in the iPhone ecosystem for years, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold presents a very real temptation to switch, at least for a while. Its unique form factor, combined with the familiar and polished Android experience, makes it an exciting alternative. If you’re considering making the leap from iPhone to Android or simply want to explore the world of foldables, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold might just be the device to make that transition feel worthwhile.