Google’s latest foldable device, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, delivers significant improvements over its predecessor with a slimmer design and enhanced AI capabilities tailored for larger screens. Priced at $1,799 (though currently available for $300 less), this premium device earns ZDNET’s Editors’ Choice by successfully balancing portability with the productivity benefits of a tablet-like experience, all while leveraging Google’s AI ecosystem to create unique functionality not found on other foldables.
The big picture: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents Google’s refined approach to foldable smartphones with a thinner profile and taller design that opens to reveal an 8-inch internal display.
- The device completely flattens when unfolded, significantly reducing the visibility of the center crease that plagued earlier foldable phones.
- Powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chip and 16GB of RAM, the phone targets productivity users who want tablet functionality in a pocketable form.
Key specs: Google’s foldable comes with 256GB of storage, 16GB of RAM, and a 4,650mAh battery that delivers all-day performance.
- The external display functions like a traditional smartphone when closed, while the 8-inch internal display transforms the device into an Android tablet experience.
- Both displays feature a smooth 120Hz refresh rate that enhances the user experience when navigating between apps.
AI integration: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold showcases Google’s AI strategy with features specifically designed for the larger display format.
- Pixel Screenshots and deeper Gemini integration take advantage of the expanded screen real estate.
- The device’s machine learning capabilities enhance photography with features like Made You Look, Add Me, and Video Boost.
Camera capabilities: While the camera system remains largely unchanged from the previous Pixel Fold, it features a 48MP main lens and 10MP selfie cameras on both displays.
- The camera performance is slightly less detailed compared to the standard Pixel 9 Pro but compensates with unique software features.
- Google’s computational photography continues to be a strength, though the hardware doesn’t push boundaries compared to other premium smartphones.
Pricing context: Despite its premium positioning at $1,799, current promotions bring the price down to $1,499 at major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.
- This pricing makes the device more competitive against Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series and other premium foldables.
- The significant discount suggests Google is aggressively positioning the device to gain market share in the expanding foldable category.
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