The Pixel 9 Pro Fold (P9PF) has proven to be one of my favorite gadgets of 2024, securing its place on our list of the year's biggest winners. This innovative device stands out as a worthy alternative to Samsung's long-standing Galaxy Z Fold series. Its straightforward design highlights the principle that simplicity often yields the best results. The secret to effective foldable phone design seems to be creating a device that retains the familiar size and shape of a regular smartphone, while concealing a spacious flexible display inside.
Google made a significant leap in design with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold by moving away from the compact dimensions of the original Pixel Fold. By aligning the size of the exterior display with that of a standard Pixel 9, Google minimized any confusion when performing everyday tasks like texting, navigating maps, or scrolling through social media. However, this design choice comes with a drawback: the interior display has a nearly square aspect ratio, which may not be ideal for movie watching. Nevertheless, with an impressive eight-inch screen, the P9PF still boasts one of the largest flexible panels available, providing ample space for gaming, reading comics, or enjoying eBooks.
If manufacturers can lower the prices of foldable phones, they could potentially disrupt the market for smaller tablets (those under nine inches) overnight. Additionally, unlike Samsung’s foldable devices, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold maintains top-tier camera quality. It features a 5x optical zoom, similar to the standard Pixel 9 Pro. While it may lack the same main sensor, the difference is negligible unless examined closely. The device also includes unique features like Look at Me and Add Me, which leverage its foldable design. Although Google's Tensor G4 chip does not quite match up to equivalent Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, it remains sufficiently fast for daily tasks, barring intensive video editing or high-demand gaming.
In my experience, foldable phones are particularly well-suited for mobile trading card apps like Marvel Snap or Pokémon TCG Pocket. The large screen that can be quickly deployed is ideal for quick gaming sessions, allowing users to engage in matches anywhere and anytime.
While I typically avoid using cases, I opted for a skin from Dbrand for the P9PF to provide minimal protection and a bit of extra grip. Despite some scratches and dings on the frame and front screen, this experiment was intentional to evaluate the phone's resilience under everyday usage. Remarkably, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has endured more wear and tear than any device I've owned, even surviving a chaotic period leading up to the birth of my daughter.
Throughout the past year, my P9PF has been exposed to the curiosity of my three-year-old son and has survived numerous drops and spills without major damage. For most users, a skin and a screen protector for the exterior display are sufficient to maintain the device's condition. The interior screen remains flawless, aside from a crease that is typical of foldable phones. While some users may find this crease bothersome, it is a common characteristic of foldable technology.
Recently, I've encountered a potential issue with the P9PF; occasionally, the inner display takes longer to activate upon opening the phone. This problem doesn't occur consistently and often resolves itself quickly. Another issue involves the phone's SIM card occasionally ceasing to function, which can typically be fixed by resetting the device's internet connections. It's unclear whether these issues stem from a recent software update or a hardware fault, but they bear resemblance to discussions I've seen on Reddit regarding similar experiences with other P9PF users.
Despite these minor concerns, my overall experience with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has been overwhelmingly positive over the past year. The combination of a large flexible screen, exceptional camera capabilities, and an effective design creates a winning formula for modern foldable devices. While I don't anticipate a complete redesign for the next iteration, I hope to see Google address minor issues like the exterior display's corner design, enhance durability, and possibly increase battery capacity in the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
With the Galaxy Z Fold 7 on the horizon, Google faces stiff competition. I am eager to see what the next generation of foldable Pixels will offer, especially with the potential arrival of the OnePlus Open 2. Unless Google or OnePlus can rival the sleekness, performance, and battery life of Samsung's latest flagship, I may find myself drawn to their competitors. Nevertheless, Google's software innovations and superior camera technology may very well sway my decision back in their favor. The rapid evolution of the Pixel Fold line indicates a promising future, making it an exciting time for anyone considering a foldable phone.
