Google’s first folding phone, the Pixel Fold, has received positive feedback for its design and functionality. The device features a sturdy yet manageable hinge, impressive screens, and a premium feel. Google’s apps and software work well on the device, and it is expected that future folding phone features in Android will be optimized for the Pixel Fold.
While Google has found success with affordable Pixel phones and their camera capabilities, the Pixel Fold represents a different approach—a high-end, niche device that pushes the boundaries of what a mobile phone can do. As one of the early players in this category, Google has the potential to make a significant impact, especially given its control over the Android platform.
The Pixel Fold falls into the category of a normal-sized phone that transforms into a small tablet when unfolded. Its flexible screen and hinge enable it to expand from a compact 5.8-inch phone to a spacious 7.6-inch tablet. This larger screen provides ample space for running apps, watching videos, playing games, and more.
Both screens of the Pixel Fold are OLED panels with 120Hz refresh rates. The inner screen is covered with ultrathin glass and a factory-installed screen protector. The outer screen, with a resolution of 1080 x 2092 pixels, can reach up to 1550 nits of brightness, while the inner display, with a resolution of 2208 x 1840 pixels, reaches up to 1450 nits. This means that both screens are highly usable even in outdoor conditions. However, considering its price tag of nearly $2,000, it is expected that there are no compromises compared to traditional smartphones.
Internally, the Pixel Fold features the same Tensor 2 processor found in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, along with 12GB of RAM. Storage options include 256GB or 512GB, but unfortunately, there is no option to expand it later.
Google claims that the Pixel Fold can deliver “beyond 24 hours” of battery life. The device is equipped with a 4,800mAh battery split into two cells—one in each half. It supports fast charging up to 30W and can also be wirelessly charged on a standard Qi charger. However, it’s worth noting that neither charger is included with the device.
The Pixel Fold boasts a total of five cameras, with three on the back and two for selfies and video calls. The back cameras consist of a 48-megapixel main camera with optical stabilization, a 10.8-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 10.8-megapixel 5x telephoto camera. While the camera features and capabilities are similar to those of the Pixel 7 Pro, the Pixel Fold’s slim frame required the use of different sensors.
Compared to the Samsung Z Fold 4, the Pixel Fold’s inner display offers a more landscape-oriented 6:5 aspect ratio, resulting in a larger screen size. Apps also tend to display better on the Pixel Fold’s inner screen, especially when using split-screen multitasking to run two apps simultaneously.
