With the Pixel 10 Pro Fold now officially available, Google is shedding light on the intricate design and engineering decisions that have shaped this cutting-edge device. Despite its outwardly similar appearance to its predecessor, Google believes that this new model represents a substantial upgrade that many may not fully appreciate, largely due to its slightly thicker profile.
According to Google, the team faced a pivotal question: how significant of a leap should they aim for in this generation? The transition from the Pixel Fold to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold involved a "major engineering lift," prompting them to consider whether to take a "safer path" that would merely involve "updating specs and cameras" and refreshing the color options. Ultimately, Google chose a "more aggressive path" for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Claude Zellweger, the lead for industrial design at Pixel, emphasized this shift, stating, "We felt that if we’re able to really progress and push our engineering capabilities, we should." This commitment to innovation has led to what Zellweger describes as the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s aggressive dimensions, enhanced camera performance, and a host of new features, including an all-new gearless hinge.
The innovative gearless hinge is a significant advancement, providing greater reliability as it eliminates gears that could be compromised by dust over time. This upgrade is crucial for the longevity of foldable devices. By removing the small spaces required by traditional hinges, Google has achieved an impressive IP68 water and dust resistance rating for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Typical hinges utilize four gears with teeth, which allow the two halves of the device to rotate symmetrically during opening and closing. In contrast, the gearless hinge uses mechanical components known as CAMs to convert one type of motion into another. This mechanism transforms rotational motion into linear motion, allowing the hinge to conserve space while facilitating smoother operations. As noted in our review, this design results in a hinge that "protrudes from the phone’s body less," contributing to a sleek aesthetic.
The new hinge design has enabled a larger 6.4-inch outer display, an increase from the previous 6.3 inches, thanks to a reduction in bezel size. Additionally, the reconfigured internal architecture allows for a more powerful battery, boasting a capacity of 5,015 mAh compared to the 4,650 mAh in earlier models. This enhancement ensures that users can enjoy extended usage without compromising on performance.
Moreover, the hinge is designed with a polished finish rather than a matte one, as Google aims for this component to stand out rather than blend in. This design philosophy aligns with their belief that a shiny finish conveys a sense of premium quality. The edges of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold feature a metallic finish with diamond-cut chamfers, which further enhances its luxurious appearance. Zellweger remarked, "One important thing that we want to do every year is keep the hinge polished," emphasizing its role in maintaining a premium look alongside the other Pro Pixel devices.
In conclusion, the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is not just a mere refresh but a thoughtfully engineered upgrade that reflects significant advancements in technology and design. With its innovative features like the gearless hinge and improved display, it sets a new standard in the world of foldable smartphones.
