Google is launching its first folding phone, the Pixel Fold. Our quick check reveals whether it is worth buying the Samsung Galaxy Fold alternative.
The Google Pixel Fold is visually reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold. (Source: Google)
- Google unveiled its first folding phone.
- The Pixel Fold is in direct competition with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold.
- Prices start at 1,899 euros.
At its Google I/O developer conference on May 10, the search engine giant presented the new Android 14 mobile operating system as well as a range of new hardware, including the Pixel 7a and the Pixel Tabet. The Pixel Fold is the manufacturer’s first foldable.
The Google Pixel Fold is visually reminiscent of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, because the manufacturer uses a very similar design concept. However, the Pixel Fold should be so slim at less than 6 millimeters (without the camera hump) that it fits in any trouser pocket.
According to Google, it is currently the slimmest foldable smartphone – at least in the regions where the Pixel Fold is marketed. However, Huawei puts a lot of pressure here with the Mate X3, which is also very thin at 5.3 millimeters.
Robust and waterproof
Display and multitasking
performance and storage
camera
battery life
Security
Conclusion
Robust and waterproof
For the external display, Google relies on robust Gorilla Glass Victus, which is supposed to protect the screen from scratches and falls. However, the competition already uses Gorilla Glass Victus+, which is a bit more resistant. Nevertheless, you should ideally use a bulletproof glass film to optimally protect the mobile phone display.
After all, you don’t have to worry about adequate protection in the rain or in the bathtub. The Pixel Fold is IPX8 waterproof, but like the competition, it lacks protection against dust ingress.
Display and multitasking
The main display inside is 7.6 inches, the same size as that of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, the outer display is slightly smaller at 5.8 inches (6.2 inches for Samsung). Both AMOLED screens work with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hertz. Scrolling, playing games or changing apps run so smoothly.
According to the manufacturer, many apps have already been optimized for the big screen, including Google’s own applications. The aim is also to optimize popular apps from all important categories, including TikTok, Disney+ and Netflix.
Similar to the Flex mode at Samsung, Google also works with screen divisions specially adapted to the foldable. You can use several apps at the same time or use the upper area of the display as the main screen for YouTube and Co. via the “On the table” mode if you have folded the device at a 90-degree angle. In this mode, control can be carried out by voice command if desired.
performance and storage
For the processor, Google relies on its self-developed Google Tensor G2 chip with 5G support, which, according to various benchmark tests, is about on par with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 in terms of performance. According to the manufacturer, the Fold is the first smartphone with the G2 chip.
If you use the main camera for selfies, you will benefit from the good image quality. (Source: Google)
Samsung is likely to install a faster processor with the upcoming model in autumn, but with the Pixel Fold you are well equipped for even demanding tasks and apps.
The main memory, which is sufficiently large at 12 gigabytes, also contributes to this. When it comes to device memory, you have the choice between two memory variants. Google sells the Pixel Fold with 256 and 512 gigabytes.
camera
The camera of the folding phone moves at a high level, as is typical for pixels. Anyone who likes to take photos with their smartphone will get their money’s worth with the Fold. The device is equipped with an ultra-wide-angle lens capable of 5x optical and up to 20x digital zoom.
The camera takes photos with up to 48 megapixels, it can also be used as a selfie camera when opened, which means you benefit from good image quality. The main camera usually takes much better pictures than the front camera.
The manufacturer also gives its foldable some practical photo functions. In the half-open “On the table” mode, you can take photos simply by voice command. There is also an astrophotography mode, with which you can take pictures of the starry sky without a tripod.
battery life
According to Google, the battery life is over 24 hours, using the extreme energy saving mode up to 72 hours. The capacity of the built-in dual battery is 4,821 milliampere hours.
The software optimizes battery life by prioritizing frequently used apps over less frequently used ones. The Pixel Fold can be charged via cable via quick charging with the appropriate power supply unit or alternatively wirelessly.
Security
Google advertises its Pixel Fold with advanced security features designed to protect data and user privacy. With the purchase you get VPN access via Google One at no extra charge.
In addition, the Fold offers multiple layers of hardware security such as the Titan M2 chip. In this way, the smartphone should be protected as best as possible against attacks. In addition, Google promises security updates for the foldable for at least five years. Incidentally, the fingerprint sensor is not located under the display, but in the on/off switch.
Conclusion
With the Pixel Fold, Google has made a strong entry into the field of foldables. In view of the slim case in particular, the device should be of interest to potential buyers, as it appears less bulky.
Those who like to take photos will benefit from the Pixel-typical, good camera system, and photo functions such as the astrophotograph mode are also interesting. In terms of performance, the Pixel Fold does not have to hide from the competition.
The Google Pixel Fold can be used flexibly thanks to the folding display. (Source: Google)
The processor and RAM work at a high level and should provide you with enough resources even for performance-hungry applications. The Pixel Fold is available from 1,899 euros. This puts it on par with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 (price at market launch).
The cosmos in which you move should also be decisive for the purchase. If you also use a tablet, in-ear headphones or a smartwatch from Samsung, Huawei or Google, you should use the same smartphone manufacturer – this way you benefit from the best holistic user experience. Apart from that, you certainly can’t go wrong with the Pixel Fold.
Don’t miss anything with the NETWORK-Newsletter
Every Friday: The most informative and entertaining summary from the world of technology!