Fast forward to today, and the landscape has shifted dramatically. Samsung has introduced the Galaxy Z Fold 6, a remarkable device that builds on its predecessor's strengths. Its form factor and size are ideal, especially for multitasking with two apps on the main display. The S-Pen remains a favorite feature. However, I find myself increasingly intrigued by the upcoming Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
My admiration for the regular Google Pixel 9 has heightened my anticipation for Google's second foldable phone. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a marked improvement over the first Pixel Fold, with a more premium feel and refined design. Despite the awkward naming, it appears to be the foldable phone I've been eagerly awaiting.
Google has clearly listened to feedback from the first Pixel Fold and addressed its shortcomings in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This new model is thinner, lighter, and more premium. I purchased the original Pixel Fold, but its hardware quickly felt inferior compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and the OnePlus Open. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, however, seems poised to avoid a similar fate.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is nearly an ounce lighter than its predecessor, making a noticeable difference in hand. Its 5.1mm thickness, while not the thinnest in the world, is the slimmest available in the U.S. The revamped front display is now 6.3 inches, matching the Pixel 9 Pro and offering a significant upgrade from the original Pixel Fold’s screen.
The main display of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is also vastly improved, boasting an 8-inch size with a variable refresh rate of 1Hz-120Hz and increased brightness. Early impressions suggest that the screen is one of the standout features of this foldable phone.
One area where I find the Galaxy Z Fold 6 lacking is the camera. While it performs adequately, it doesn’t match the capabilities of other foldables. For $1,800, the camera could be better, especially considering competitors like the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4 and Honor Magic V3 offer impressive camera systems in thin foldable designs. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold uses the same camera system as last year but benefits from Google's advanced image processing algorithms.
New features such as "Made You Look" and "Add Me" showcase Google’s commitment to enhancing the photo experience. These innovations help capture better moments, particularly with young children or group photos.
Google’s approach with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has been to address past issues and incorporate necessary hardware upgrades. The Tensor G4 chip, while similar to its predecessor, coupled with 16GB of RAM, promises improved performance. Early usage suggests that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold feels more responsive than the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Durability remains a concern for foldable phones. While the Galaxy Z Fold 6 is IP48-rated for dust and water resistance, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is IPX8-rated, which lacks dust protection but benefits from a more compact hinge design.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a 4,650mAh battery, slightly larger than the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s, but both phones are expected to have similar battery life. The 37W charging, while adequate, lags behind competitors like the OnePlus Open, which supports faster charging.
In summary, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold excels in several areas, but there are trade-offs. It lacks the S Pen, which is useful for productivity tasks, and isn’t as polished in multitasking compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 6. Samsung’s One UI also offers more customization options. Despite these trade-offs, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is shaping up to be a compelling alternative to the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
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