The world of folding smartphones is heating up as we eagerly anticipate the launch of the iPhone Fold. This year has seen a surge in innovative designs from various manufacturers, with Oppo introducing the ultra-thin Find N5 exclusively in China and Singapore. Shortly after, Honor unveiled the Magic V5, but it was Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 that truly captured attention by being available in all major markets, including the US.
At a recent event in New York, Google unveiled its latest offering: the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Building on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, this device is thicker. I had the opportunity to test the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, offering an iterative upgrade with notable enhancements and one major drawback. Let’s dive in!
Flagship Hardware in Pixel 10 Pro Fold
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold embraces a thicker design, a shift from its predecessor. Unlike many modern smartphones, it boasts full IP68 dust and water resistance, ensuring durability comparable to the best devices. The hinge has undergone significant enhancement, doubling its longevity, with Google asserting it can withstand over ten years of use.
This model features a 6.4-inch Actua display, slightly larger than its predecessor. The dynamic refresh rate ranges from 60Hz to 120Hz, complemented by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an impressive peak brightness of 3000 nits. The principal 8-inch main display mirrors the Pixel 9 Pro Fold yet offers improved brightness with the same peak levels.
Photographically, it maintains the same triple-camera configuration, featuring a 48MP wide camera, a 10.5MP ultrawide, and a 10.8MP telephoto lens with up to 5x optical zoom. While it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in many areas, Samsung’s latest iteration boasts a 200MP camera that may offer better image quality.
Impressive Battery Life and Charging Options
The battery life of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is particularly noteworthy. It now features a 5,015 mAh battery, almost 8% larger than last year’s model. With Google’s PixelSnap charging solution, it supports magnetic wireless charging at speeds of up to 15W, unique to folding phones.
Additionally, wired charging is notably faster at 30W, allowing for a 50% charge in just 30 minutes. This enhancement makes it a robust contender for those interested in battery performance.
The New Tensor Processor
Powered by the Tensor G5 processor, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold marks a pivotal turn in Google’s chip development, transitioning from Samsung to TSMC. This new chip promises an average 34% performance boost over the previous generation, along with significant enhancements in AI processing and photography capabilities.
Innovative AI Features and Software Enhancements
Google’s latest lineup incorporates cutting-edge software improvements. The introduction of MagicCue enables real-time contextual suggestions, enhancing user experience. The Daily Hub consolidates critical information, such as calendar events and timely alerts. Furthermore, the phone has enhanced call screening and AI translation capabilities.
What are the advantages of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold? You can expect a premium build, a more durable hinge, and impressive camera performance. However, is there anything that can hold it back? Yes, the bulkiness is quite noticeable compared to its competitors.
How thick is the Pixel 10 Pro Fold compared to other folding phones? The device measures 5.2mm when unfolded and 10.8mm when folded, which is thicker than the Galaxy Z Fold 7, which features a slimmer profile at 4.2mm unfolded. While the Pixel still feels premium, this added thickness may deter some users.
Can its camera performance compete in the market? Although it includes solid specifications, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 might have the edge with its superior 200MP lens, which could overshadow Google’s photographic offerings. In terms of weight, the Pixel weighs 258 grams, noticeably heavier than its rivals.
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is available for pre-order now, starting at $1,799 (approximately €1,673) and set to release on October 9. It comes in Moonstone and Jade colors, making it a stylish option in a crowded market.
In conclusion, while there are notable advantages to the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, such as durability and impressive feature upgrades, its thickness and weight could be significant factors in the buying decision. This device is a strong contender for anyone seeking a folding phone with a robust design and advanced capabilities. For more insights on smartphones and tech, check out Moyens I/O.