Last year, Google threw down the gauntlet in the foldable phone arena with the Pixel Fold. It wasn’t perfect, but it was a seriously impressive first attempt, showcasing Google’s signature software smarts in a brand new form factor. Fast forward to today, and I’ve spent the last few weeks putting the new Pixel 10 Pro Fold through its paces. My initial excitement was through the roof – the promise of iterative improvements on an already solid foundation seemed like a recipe for foldable perfection. However, after extensive testing, the reality is a bit more nuanced. It’s good, even very good, but it’s arguably more of an evolutionary step than the revolutionary leap I was anticipating.
The Good Stuff: Incremental, But Welcome, Improvements
Let’s start with the positives. Google has addressed some of the most common criticisms of the original Pixel Fold. The most noticeable improvement is the display. Both the inner and outer screens are noticeably brighter, making them much easier to use outdoors in direct sunlight. This was a major pain point for the first generation, and it’s a genuine relief to see it tackled effectively.
The hinge also feels more robust. While the original Pixel Fold’s hinge wasn’t exactly flimsy, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s hinge offers a more reassuring level of resistance. It stays put at various angles, which is great for using the phone in Flex Mode for video calls or watching content hands-free. Small tweaks like these contribute to a more premium and polished feel.
Finally, Google’s Tensor G4 chip provides a welcome performance boost. Apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and the overall experience feels more responsive. While the previous Tensor chip was no slouch, the G4 provides a tangible upgrade, especially when dealing with graphically intensive tasks or running multiple apps simultaneously. This is particularly useful on a foldable, where you’re more likely to be switching between different applications.
Where the Pixel 10 Pro Fold Stumbles
Despite the improvements, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold falls short in several key areas. The most glaring issue is the camera. While the image quality is generally good, it’s surprisingly similar to the original Pixel Fold. Given Google’s reputation for camera excellence, I was expecting a more significant upgrade, perhaps with a new sensor or improved processing algorithms. Unfortunately, the differences are minimal, and in some cases, I struggled to tell the images apart.
Another area of concern is battery life. While the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s battery isn’t terrible, it’s merely average for a foldable phone. With moderate usage, I could typically get through a full day, but heavy users will likely need to top up the battery before bedtime. Considering the size and weight of the device, I was hoping for significantly better endurance. The competition in the foldable space is fierce, and longer battery life is a crucial differentiator.
The software experience, while generally smooth, still has a few quirks. While Google has made strides in optimizing Android for foldable devices, some apps still don’t scale properly or take full advantage of the larger screen. I encountered a few instances of apps crashing or displaying incorrectly, which was frustrating. This is an area where Google needs to continue to refine its software to truly unlock the potential of the foldable form factor.
The Price of Incrementalism
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold commands a premium price tag, putting it in direct competition with other high-end foldable phones. However, given the relatively modest improvements over its predecessor, it’s hard to justify the cost. For the same price, you could get a competing foldable with a better camera, longer battery life, or a more refined software experience. This price point makes the Pixel 10 Pro Fold a tough sell, especially for those who already own the original Pixel Fold.
The value proposition is further complicated by the fact that the original Pixel Fold is likely to receive continued software support from Google. This means that many of the software improvements and features of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold will eventually trickle down to the older model. For existing Pixel Fold owners, the upgrade simply isn’t compelling enough.
Final Verdict: A Solid Foldable, But Not a Must-Have
The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is a solid foldable phone with some welcome improvements over its predecessor. The brighter display, more robust hinge, and improved performance are all positive steps forward. However, the lack of a significant camera upgrade, average battery life, and high price point hold it back from being a truly outstanding device. It feels more like an iterative update than the game-changing foldable I was hoping for.
Ultimately, whether or not the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is worth buying depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re new to foldable phones and are drawn to Google’s software and ecosystem, it’s a decent option. However, if you already own the original Pixel Fold, or if you prioritize camera quality or battery life above all else, there are other foldable phones on the market that offer a more compelling package. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold isn’t a bad phone, it’s just that in a market as competitive as this, “good” might not be good enough.
