Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Unfolding many usage scenarios

Together with the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold joins the high-end lineup in this release. This release is targeted at users who value an enlarged screen size which delivers high-end performance, thanks to the Google Tensor G4 akin to that of the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Aesthetics

Coming at 5.1mm when unfolded, the device appears to be incredibly thin for a device in this form factor. We attribute this to the flat edges – making the device feel just slightly thicker than the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL we reviewed earlier.

The official case comes in 2 pieces to accommodate the slender design of the device. The smooth metallic finish exemplifies the premium aesthetic of the device. For better coverage and structural integrity, the accessory is lined with adhesive strips.

At the point of this writing, we are unsure about the durability of the adhesive – given that the case has to be detached to access the SIM tray. With that said, we highly recommend setting up any physical cards before attaching the accessory.

Camera

Coming with an array of 5 rear camera, we were anticipating stellar photography performance – especially when used to take selfies giving its versatile form factor. Acknowledging this surplus, the device comes with a “Made You Look” feature which captures children’s attention through vivid animations on the smaller outer screen

Powered by machine learning, the feature aims to make adolescent pictures seem natural. The device will also benefit from photogenic enhancements akin to those found on the Pixel 9 Pro XL – attributed to the Google Tensor G4.

Unfolding the display

Opening up the display, we were thankful that the bend between the two halves of the display appeared discreet enough when viewing upfront – likely attributed to the improved hinge mechanism – correcting the V-shape angle from its predecessor. Integration of the display with its app is a quintessential part of the experience of the form factor.

In this regard, we were impressed to discover that most apps are well optimised for the jumbo screen. Apps include Gmail, Chrome, Maps, Telegram, Outlook and Instagram – some of the most functional apps which utilise the enlarged screen.

Alas, there are a handful of apps which deserve much improvement to accommodate the hybrid screen. We anticipate developers to optimize the apps as foldable phones become more prevalent.

[It almost goes without saying that they keyboard will be optimised in relation the the enlarged display]

Whilst the exterior display features a 6.3-inch 120Hz display, the unfolded display hikes it up to 8 inches with an adaptive refresh rate between 1Hz and 120Hz. For gaming aficionados, this equates to a vivid, responsive gaming experience – even performing moderately well under sunlight with 1600 nits screen brightness.

Battery Performance

Alternating between the folded and unfolded mode, the device managed to achieve a full day of use – amounting close to 5 hours of screen time (with adaptive screen brightness). This iteration charges faster at 45W wired charging – akin to what

Availability and Pricing

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is currently available for pre-order in Singapore. There is the choice between the 256GB model priced at S$2,399 and the 512GB model at S$2,57912. The phone will be available in retail stores from 20 September 2024.