Overview
This review examines the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, emphasizing its thin design, durability claims, hardware improvements, and critical structural flaws, especially concerning dust resistance and frame strength.
Design and Build Quality
- The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is marketed as the thinnest foldable phone available in the USA.
- Its design allows the phone to fold completely shut and open flat, indicating hardware improvements over previous models.
- Both halves of the phone now meet flush in the center above the stainless steel spine, potentially improving structural integrity.
- The device uses recycled aluminum for its frame, with stainless steel used in the hinge's internals.
- At full closure, it is thinner than the S24 Ultra in a case.
Display and Durability
- The phone features a 6.3-inch Actua exterior display and an 8-inch Actua interior display, though the term “Actua” is not clearly defined.
- Outer display glass scratches at a level six, with deeper grooves at level seven (Mohs hardness scale).
- Inner display uses a soft, flexible plastic that scratches at level two and is vulnerable to fingernails.
- Proper care is necessary to avoid screen damage, particularly from dust and dirt when folding.
Cameras and Features
- Main camera: 48MP; also includes 10.5MP ultra-wide, 10.8MP 5x telephoto, and a 10MP front camera.
- Earpiece, speaker grilles, 5G antenna, and fingerprint scanner integrated in the aluminum frame.
- IPX8 rating is advertised, but actual resistance to dust is lacking—hinge grinds immediately when exposed to sand or dust.
Structural and Durability Testing
- Despite claims of super durability, the device shows significant structural weaknesses, especially at antenna line locations.
- When bent backward, the phone snaps at the antenna lines near the hinge, resulting in catastrophic damage.
- The only part remaining intact post-breakage is the hinge.
- Internal structure includes dual batteries (totaling 4,650mAh), vapor chamber for heat dissipation, and water damage indicators.
Accessories and Recommendations
- Official screen protectors for the inner display are unavailable; the reviewer recommends the dbrand Prism 2.0 for regular smartphones.
- Installation of dbrand’s protector is described as easy and effective.
- Google’s battery adhesive design is criticized as inefficient and needing improvement in future versions.
Decisions
- IPX8 rating on website is inaccurate; actual dust protection is insufficient.
Recommendations / Advice
- Use caution to prevent dust ingress as the device is not dust-proof.
- Apply screen protector to outer display for added protection, but inner display remains vulnerable.
- Future models should address structural weaknesses and battery adhesive design.