Google Cracks the Foldable Formula with Pixel 9 Pro

Strategic Insights -

Google's second attempt at foldable phones has been a resounding success, producing a device that seamlessly merges a phone and tablet experience without compromising on functionality or quality. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's large 8in internal screen, paired with a slim 6.3in external display, has finally achieved the perfect balance between portability and usability. While the device's £1,749 price tag is substantial, it offers unparalleled performance, a stunning camera setup, and a suite of innovative AI features.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's unique design allows for a seamless transition between phone and tablet modes, making it ideal for everyday use.
  • The internal 8in screen boasts a crisp, smooth display with high brightness, rivalling the best on the market, and is perfect for watching widescreen videos.
  • The device features a robust camera setup, including a 48MP wide-angle lens, 10.5MP ultrawide lens, and 10.8MP 5x telephoto lens, capable of capturing exceptional photos across various lighting conditions.
  • The Gemini AI experience enables conversational experiences, allowing for flowing discussions and suggestions, and is included for a year, with seven years of software support.
  • The Pixel 9 Pro Fold comes with Android 14, and Google's commitment to seven years of software updates, matching Samsung's rival offerings.
  • While the phone boasts a solid battery life, lasting around 40 hours, it falls short of Samsung's best and is significantly more expensive.
  • The device ships with a £19-a-month Gemini Advanced subscription, included for a year, offering exclusive AI-powered features.
  • Google has prioritised sustainability, using at least 18% recycled materials in the phone's construction and offering device recycling for free.

Statistics:

  • £1,749 (euro 1899, $1799, A$2699) price tag of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
  • 8in internal screen size with 120Hz OLED (373ppi) display.
  • 6.3in external screen size with FHD+ 120Hz OLED (422ppi) display.
  • 48MP wide-angle lens, 10.5MP ultrawide lens, and 10.8MP 5x telephoto lens camera setup.
  • 16GB of RAM, Tensor G4 chip, and up to 512GB storage.
  • Seven years of software updates, including Android 15 in autumn.
  • 40 hours battery life with around 97 minutes full charge using 45W USB-C charger.

Sources:

  • "Google takes a simpler approach to multitasking on the tablet screen than rivals, limiting it to running only two apps on screen at once." - [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/oct/05/google-pixel-9-pro-fold-review)
  • "The Pixel 9 Pro Fold's battery life varies more than a regular phone because of the two screens but the Fold lasts about 40 hours charging it every other day." - [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/oct/05/google-pixel-9-pro-fold-review)
  • "A full charge takes about 97 minutes using a 45W USB-C charger (not included)." - [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/oct/05/google-pixel-9-pro-fold-review)