The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the latest foldable flagship smartphone from Google, bringing a host of cutting-edge features designed for those who want both a premium smartphone and tablet-like experience in one device. Priced at Ksh 195,000 in Kenya, this device combines innovative design with powerful performance, targeting the top tier of the foldable market. Let's take a deeper dive into its unique specifications and standout features.
Design and Build
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold builds on the lessons learned from its predecessor, the Pixel Fold, offering a more refined design with improved durability. Weighing 257g, it is slightly lighter than the Pixel Fold (286g), though it remains one of the heaviest foldables in its class, comparable to the Galaxy Fold 6 at 239g.
The device features an aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, providing a premium look and feel. The rear panel is made of the same high-strength glass, while the hinge mechanism has been upgraded for better sturdiness and smoother unfolding. Additionally, the phone boasts an IPX8 water resistance rating, ensuring durability even in challenging environments.
When unfolded, it measures 155.2 x 150.2 x 5.1mm, but it folds into a more compact form of 155.2 x 77.1 x 10.5mm, making it easy to store and handle. The device is available in two stunning color options: Obsidian and Porcelain.
Display
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is equipped with two impressive displays:
- Main Display: The 8-inch LTPO OLED display is the largest in its class, offering a resolution of 2076 x 2152 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. It supports HDR10+ and can reach 2700 nits of peak brightness, providing vivid colors and sharp details whether you're browsing the web, watching videos, or playing games.
- Cover Display: The 6.3-inch OLED cover screen is equally impressive. It features a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR support, and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, making it resistant to scratches and drops. The resolution of 1080 x 2424 pixels ensures clear and sharp visuals, perfect for quickly checking notifications or using apps when the phone is folded.
This combination of displays ensures that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold provides a truly immersive experience, whether unfolded for a tablet-like interface or folded for everyday use.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google's Tensor G4 chipset, built on the 4nm process. This chipset brings significant improvements over its predecessor, the Tensor G2. With an Octa-core CPU featuring a combination of 1x 3.1 GHz Cortex-X4, 3x 2.6 GHz Cortex-A720, and 4x 1.92 GHz Cortex-A520 cores, the phone delivers outstanding performance while maintaining energy efficiency.
- RAM & Storage: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold comes with 16GB of RAM and either 256GB or 512GB of UFS 3.1 storage. Unfortunately, there’s no external storage option, but the provided storage should be more than enough for most users.
- Graphics and AI: The phone features the Mali-G715 MC7 GPU, enhancing gaming and graphical performance. Additionally, the Tensor G4 includes a third-gen TPU for improved AI and machine learning capabilities, which powers advanced features like Pixel Studio, Add Me, and Gemini Live.
- Battery Life: The 4650mAh battery supports 21W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging. Google promises up to 16 hours of typical use on a single charge, with an Extreme Battery Saver Mode capable of extending the battery life up to 72 hours.
Camera System
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is equipped with a versatile triple rear camera setup:
- 48MP Wide Camera: With an f/1.7 aperture, it offers exceptional detail and clarity.
- 10.8MP Telephoto Camera: Features 5x optical zoom and supports OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) for sharp, steady shots even at a distance.
- 10.5MP Ultrawide Camera: With a 127° field of view, it excels in capturing expansive scenes, and it supports macro focus for detailed close-ups.
These cameras come with an array of features, including Multi-zone Laser AF, Ultra-HDR, Pixel Shift, and Zoom Enhance for enhanced photography. You can also record videos in 4K at 30/60fps and 1080p at 240fps, ensuring you capture smooth and stable footage.
For selfies, both the 10MP front camera and the 10MP cover camera offer the ability to capture high-quality photos and videos, with 4K video support.
Software and Connectivity
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold runs on Android 14, with up to 7 major Android upgrades. As expected from a Google device, it integrates seamlessly with the Google ecosystem, offering features like Google Assistant, Circle to Search, and Google Pay.
For connectivity, the device supports 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC for fast data transfer and communication. It also has dual SIM support, including an eSIM for added flexibility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Innovative Design: With an upgraded hinge and improved foldable display, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is more durable and comfortable to use.
- Immersive Display: The 8-inch OLED display offers the largest and most vibrant screen in the foldable market.
- Enhanced AI Features: Powered by Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, it offers smart functionalities like Pixel Studio and Gemini Live.
- Top-tier Cameras: The advanced rear cameras with AI enhancements provide excellent photography and video quality.
- Long-lasting Battery: With a 4650mAh battery, it lasts longer than many foldable competitors.
Cons:
- Performance Compared to Competitors: While the Tensor G4 is a powerful chipset, it doesn't quite match the performance of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, used in rivals like the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
- Minor Camera Upgrades: The camera improvements over the previous model are not as revolutionary as expected.
- Visible Crease: Like most foldables, there is a visible crease when the screen is unfolded.
- Price: At Ksh 195,000, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a premium device with a hefty price tag.
- Charging Speed: The wired charging speed is slower compared to competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents the future of foldable smartphones, combining cutting-edge technology with a sleek design. While it faces competition from other foldable devices, especially in terms of performance and price, its innovative features, impressive camera system, and seamless integration with Google’s software make it a compelling choice for those in search of a high-end foldable phone.
If you’re invested in the Google ecosystem and value AI-driven features and immersive displays, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold could be a worthwhile investment. However, if you're seeking the highest performance in the foldable market, alternatives like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 might be a better fit.
