Excited For The Pixel 10 Pro Fold But It May Disappoint Us

The upcoming Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to receive several noteworthy enhancements compared to its predecessor, such as a larger screen, a slimmer hinge, a more powerful battery, and enhanced dust resistance.

The Google Pixel 10 series is anticipated to launch in the next few months, likely by August, and will include a total of four new devices, with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold being one of them.

According to Android Headlines, a wealth of information about this foldable phone has recently surfaced.

As a proud owner of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold since its release in September 2024, I’ve enjoyed the device but noted areas for improvement.

If the latest report is true, there are quite a few positives to look forward to with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, although one aspect still raises concerns.

Larger

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is set to feature a slightly larger exterior display, increasing from 6.3 inches to 6.4 inches. Additionally, its maximum brightness is rumored to rise by 10%, reaching up to 3000 nits.

While a 0.1-inch change might not seem substantial, the adjustments Google plans to make to facilitate this expansion are particularly exciting.

One minor annoyance I’ve encountered with the 9 Pro Fold is the considerable bezels surrounding the outer screen, along with the prominent corners that impede the use of apps needing that space typical of traditional screens.

Not every app is affected, but switching between this device and others can be jarring when I return.

The report suggests that Google will reduce the bezel size, thus allowing for a larger front display that should use corner space more efficiently. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is also expected to come with a smaller hinge, which could contribute to a more compact and lightweight device.

This adjustment would be a welcome change since the 9 Pro Fold feels bulky compared to its sleeker counterparts like the ultra-thin Honor Magic V5, currently the world’s thinnest foldable, and the newly released Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.

Bigger

Another upgrade may include a bigger battery, with reports indicating an increase from 4,650mAh in the 9 Pro Fold to 5,015mAh in the upcoming model.

Battery life hasn’t been a major issue for me with the 9, as it typically lasts a full day before dropping below 20% by bedtime. However, an enhanced battery size could signal further improvements.

While it won’t have the largest battery among foldables— that honor goes to the Honor Magic V5 with its 5,800mAh power pack—the increase is still appreciated.

Faster

The spec leak indicates that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold will feature Google’s latest G5 chipset, along with 16GB of RAM.

Though the RAM remains the same as its predecessor, the new chipset should provide a boost in performance and efficiency.

A new storage option of 1TB might also be introduced, alongside the existing 256GB and 512GB variants. However, expect the price tag to be hefty.

Stronger

Finally, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold could feature a quality its competitors may lack: an IP68 rating, which signifies its dust and water resistance capabilities. The first digit represents dust protection, while the second signifies protection against water.

Many foldables carry an ‘8’ rating for water resistance, indicating the device is safe against submersion, but the dust rating is noteworthy here.

The Honor Magic V5 has a ‘5’ dust rating, while the newly launched Galaxy Z Fold 7 only achieves a ‘4’ rating for larger particles.

An IP68 rating would mean complete protection against dust, allowing for carefree beach trips and enhanced overall durability.

But I expect more

I’ve long appreciated Google’s camera technology. I remember being impressed by my Pixel 3’s photo quality when I took it on vacation to Thailand in 2018.

Google constantly refines its software and imaging technology alongside hardware, and my Pixel 9 Pro Fold is an excellent camera. However, it doesn’t feature the best camera hardware available, despite being the most premium model.

While the Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL utilized a 50MP + 48MP + 48MP triple camera setup, the Fold used a lesser 48MP + 10.8MP + 10.5MP configuration.

I understand that compromises are often necessary to fit all the desired features into a foldable design without making it too heavy or unwieldy.

If rumors hold true, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to maintain the same camera setup as the 9 Pro Fold, retaining the 48MP + 10.8MP + 10.5MP layout.

While I expect Google to enhance the camera software for better image quality, I also believe other models in the Pixel 10 series should receive upgraded camera hardware. Meanwhile, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold might come at a significantly higher price.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL started at $1,099, while the Pixel 9 Pro Fold began at $1,799. That’s a steep increase for hardware that isn’t top-notch. If I’m spending that amount, I want the best materials available.

When is the Google Pixel 10 series launching?

It’s important to approach this report and all preceding rumors with caution, as we won’t know the definitive details about the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold or the rest of the Pixel 10 series until they’re officially announced.

Last year, Google unveiled the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold on August 13, with the 9 and 9 Pro XL available for purchase starting August 22.

The Fold had a subsequent release, debuting on September 4, while the 9 Pro reached shelves on September 9.

This year, a similar timeline is anticipated for the Pixel 10 series. According to the report from Android Headlines, an August 20 launch date is projected, with pre-orders expected on the same day.

Moreover, the Google Pixel 10 is allegedly set for release on August 28, although it remains unclear whether the Fold will be included or delayed like last year.