Google has revolutionised the foldable smartphone landscape with the launch of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, the first device in its category to boast a full IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. This cutting-edge gadget promises to enhance durability while offering a suite of advanced AI features and an impressive camera system, making it a formidable contender in the premium smartphone market.
Revolutionary Durability
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. One of its standout features is the innovative gearless hinge, which expertly addresses the common issue of dust infiltration that has plagued foldable phones. This new design allows the device to maintain optimal functionality even in less-than-ideal conditions, making it a practical choice for users who lead active lifestyles. Google claims that the hinge can endure over a decade of folding, setting a new benchmark for longevity in foldable technology.
Despite these advancements, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold comes with a hefty price tag of £1,749 (€1,899/$1,799/A$2,699), placing it firmly in the high-end market alongside competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Enhanced Display and Performance
On the exterior, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold retains a familiar look, with a slightly larger external screen thanks to reduced bezels and improved brightness on both the inside and outside displays. When opened, the internal screen offers a remarkable experience for multitasking, easily accommodating two full-sized apps side by side. However, at 258g, it feels weighty in hand and noticeably chunkier than its sleek rivals, which may be a consideration for potential buyers.
Powered by the Google Tensor G5 chip, this foldable phone delivers solid performance with 16GB of RAM and storage options starting at 256GB. While it performs admirably for everyday tasks and even gaming, those seeking the highest graphics performance might still prefer devices featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips.
Battery Life and Charging Capabilities
Battery performance can fluctuate significantly based on usage patterns. On lighter usage days, with about five hours of screen time divided between both displays, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold can last around 38 to 40 hours between charges. However, when heavily used, particularly with 5G connectivity, the battery life drops to approximately 28 hours. While respectable, this performance does lag behind some top-tier competitors.
Charging the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is efficient, taking just 90 minutes to reach a full charge and hitting 50% in 30 minutes with a suitable 30W USB-C power adaptor (not included). Additionally, it supports Qi2 wireless charging, allowing for a range of compatible accessories.
Cutting-Edge Software and Features
Running on Android 16, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is packed with a vibrant new interface and a wealth of AI tools that enhance user interaction. Among the notable features is the Gemini chatbot, designed to assist with tasks and provide real-time translations during calls. The standout Magic Cue feature smartly processes data from various Google apps, delivering timely suggestions based on your context.
The device also includes a one-year subscription to Google AI Pro, granting access to advanced AI models and cloud storage, ensuring users can fully leverage the capabilities of their device.
Sustainability is also at the forefront, with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold constructed from 29% recycled materials and designed for longevity, including a battery rated for over 1,000 charge cycles.
Camera Capabilities
The camera system on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold features a 48MP main lens, a 10.5MP ultra-wide, and a 10.8MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, making it a strong contender for photography enthusiasts. While it excels in various shooting conditions, Google’s renowned night mode particularly shines in low-light scenarios.
Innovative shooting modes allow for unique angles and dual-screen usage, enhancing the overall photography experience. However, it’s worth noting that while the cameras are impressive for a foldable, they don’t quite match the performance of the highest-end standard Pixel models.
Price Comparison
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is priced at £1,749 (€1,899/$1,799/A$2,699), which positions it alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and significantly above the standard Pixel 10 models, making it a premium investment for those seeking the latest in foldable technology.
Why it Matters
The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold represents a major leap forward for foldable smartphones, particularly in terms of durability and functionality. By achieving a full IP68 rating, Google has begun to bridge the gap between foldable devices and traditional smartphones, setting a new standard that could influence future designs across the industry. With its powerful features, impressive AI capabilities, and sustainable design, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is not just a gadget; it’s a glimpse into the future of mobile technology.
