There’s certainly no shortage of choices when it comes to foldable smartphones especially when new models are being introduced every couple of months. Still, there’s one particular model that really caught our attention and its none other than the new Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold that was recently announced in the local market.
The new Pixel 9 Pro Fold is unlike any other foldable phones in the market. It’s 6.1” cover display feels exactly like a regular smartphone as it offers a more conventional 20:9 aspect ratio which not only accommodates more content, but also allows apps and other media contents to fit well to the screen without looking unnatural or distorted.
Unfurling the phone on the other hand reveals a spacious 8.0” inner display which instantaneously transforms the device into a productivity powerhouse that allows you to multi-task effortlessly on the go. Regardless whether you’re using the cover or inner display, they both offer the same amazing viewing experience with a high-end LTPO OLED panel which supports a fast 120Hz refresh rate as well as an impressive peak brightness that reaches up to 2,700 nits if situation entails.
Despite the additional screen, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold measures just 10.5mm in thickness when folded which is only slightly thicker than a typical flagship phone. As expected from its price point, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold put forward an impeccable build quality that’s able to survive a couple of knocks. Likewise, holding the phone on hand also offers the same premium experience as any other expensive devices.
@playfuldroid Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold hands-on ? #GooglePixel9ProFold #GooglePixel #Google #TeamPixel #Smartphone ? GANGSTERS – Emmett Zetto & Talentless
Sitting at the heart of the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold is Google’s in-house Tensor G4 chipset which was also used by the rest of the Pixel 9 series devices. In terms of day-to-day usage, you can well expect a smooth and seamless smartphone experience even with heavy multi-tasking or prolonged mobile gaming.
Speaking of multi-tasking, I honestly enjoy using the Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s Split-Screen Mode more than any other foldables due to the fact that the screen looks and feels exactly like two regular smartphones placed side-by-side when running a pair of apps which fit naturally to each halve of the screen without looking distorted or compressed – as in the case of some other devices.
Keeping its lights on is a respectable 4,650mAh battery which has no issue supporting one full day of usage on a single charge despite me using the larger screen more than half the time. In the event that the battery runs out, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold supports 21W fast wired charging that’s able to completely recharge the phone from 0 to 100% in just slightly over 90 minutes.
As far as photography is concerned, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is backed by a triple rear camera system comprising of a 48 megapixels (f/1.7 aperture) main camera, 10.8 megapixels (f/3.1 aperture) telephoto camera, as well as a 10.5 megapixels (f/2.2 aperture) ultra-wide unit. This impressive setup never fails to deliver flattering results across all three cameras.
The main camera in particular, is able to capture amazing-looking photos with excellent details and dynamic range. Even when shooting in poor lighting environment, the camera is able to deliver quality photos with good colour rendition and tonal contrast thanks to its advanced Night Sight feature that kicks in automatically in low light.
Hardware-aside, its also worth heaping praise on the myriad of AI photography features that are available under the hood. This of course include the highly raved Magic Editor which gives you the ability to reimagine your photos by moving, recomposing or erasing parts of your photos, as well as apply contextual or special-effect presets.
All in all, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a fantastic foldable smartphone which not only serves well as a productive workhorse, but also doubles up as a reliable entertainment and photography companion. That being said, its S$2,399 asking price could be a major stumbling block for many consumers.
For those who’re interested, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is available for purchase in Singapore through Google Store, Singtel, as well as SprintCass.