Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Worthy Redesign or a Step Back?

The upcoming Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is already generating buzz, and the latest images from Taiwan’s National Communications Commission offer a compelling look at what we can expect. This second-generation foldable represents a departure from its predecessor, embracing a new design philosophy while addressing some of the previous model’s shortcomings.

Designer: Google

First and foremost, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold ditches the original’s short and wide passport-style form factor. The new model adopts a taller and narrower profile, bringing it more in line with devices like the OnePlus Open. This change offers a larger, more practical outer display, making the phone easier to handle and use. The increased screen real estate is a welcome improvement, even though it means saying goodbye to the unique shape that made the first Pixel Fold stand out from competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Fold.

One of the most notable changes is removing Google’s signature camera bar. The first-generation Pixel Fold featured a prominent, elongated camera bar that added a distinctive look and functionality. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold opts for a new camera housing design, which is substantial enough to prevent the phone from wobbling when laid flat. This redesign offers a cleaner and more streamlined aesthetic, although it loses some of the original’s unique charm.

Looking at the new model’s inner display, there’s still a noticeable crease, though it appears less prominent than before. The screen ratio has shifted, becoming taller and narrower, and the bezels have been slimmed down, giving the device a more modern look. However, this design shift comes with a trade-off: the inner camera is now a cutout on the upper-left part of the display rather than being part of the bezel. This change means the screen is no longer uninterrupted, which might disappoint fans of the original design.

Despite its weight, the first-generation Pixel Fold’s short and wide design made it a great one-handed device. Although its cover screen was larger on paper, it was often too wide to hold comfortably for extended periods. In contrast, the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s taller form factor should make it easier to use and carry around, enhancing the overall user experience.

A concern with the new model is its slightly smaller battery capacity of 4,560 mAh, down from the first Fold’s 4,727 mAh. Given that the original wasn’t known for its battery longevity, this reduction might raise some eyebrows. However, Google’s latest Tensor processor promises efficiency gains that could help mitigate this issue.

Alongside these design changes, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a new 45-watt USB-C charger. This new charger, which sports a more rounded design than its predecessors, is part of Google’s push to improve charging speeds and overall user convenience.

As someone who has used the first-generation Pixel Fold extensively, I can say that it has a unique quality that the new model hopes to build upon. The first Fold had its share of drawbacks, from dim screen brightness compared to newer models to subpar speakers and limited app optimization. With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google can address these issues and deliver a more refined and competitive product.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant evolution in design and functionality. By moving away from the unique but bulky passport form factor to a more practical and user-friendly design, Google is making strides to compete more effectively in the foldable phone market. Here’s hoping that the new model not only looks the part but also delivers on performance and user experience, even if it does come with a price tag north of $2,000.