Google’s Next Foldable: The Pixel 9 Pro Fold

A Potential Flagship Contender

Google’s innovation engine appears to be gearing up for a significant shake-up in the foldable smartphone market with the anticipated launch of the Pixel 9 series. Among the lineup, a standout entrant is the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which, according to a leak from a “Google insider” to Android Authority, could finally bring flagship specifications to Google’s foldable device segment.

The Pixel 9 Series Lineup

The Pixel 9 series is rumored to include four distinct models:

The base Pixel 9
The Pixel 9 Pro
A new Pixel 9 Pro XL
The foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold

While specifics on the devices’ specs and features remain under wraps, their collective presence hints at a unified performance ethos that could excite Pixel Fold enthusiasts.

Learning from the Past

The original Pixel Fold, despite its solid build, fell short of expectations, particularly with the Tensor G2 chipset shared with the Pixel 7 series. Users experienced adequate performance but were left wanting due to subpar battery life and overheating issues—a significant concern given the Fold’s premium $1,800 price tag.

Future Hardware Speculations

The next iteration, possibly equipped with the Tensor G4 chipset, is expected to address these shortcomings. This SoC is projected to power both the Pixel 9 and the 9 Pro, suggesting a similar fate for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

Design and Naming

In terms of design, Android Authority reports that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will bear a resemblance to its series counterparts. However, the official name remains uncertain, with “Pixel 9 Pro Fold” potentially being a placeholder until a final decision is made.

The Verdict

As the tech community eagerly awaits the unveiling of Google’s next foldable, it’s clear that the stakes are high. With the potential for flagship specs and a unified hardware approach across the Pixel 9 series, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold could be a game-changer. However, as with all leaks, a healthy dose of skepticism is warranted until official details emerge at Google I/O 2024.

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the event, where we also expect a glimpse of the Pixel 8a and perhaps a teaser for the new series.