Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Premium Foldable Experience with a Price Tag to Match
Google has finally brought its foldable ambitions to India with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, a premium device vying for a place in the increasingly competitive foldable smartphone market. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts an impressive 8-inch inner display, a sleek 6.3-inch cover screen, and powerful performance thanks to Google’s Tensor G4 chipset. However, the premium experience comes at a premium price, making it a captivating but expensive proposition. Let’s dive into the details of this foldable marvel.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold Price in India and Availability
Google has priced the Pixel 9 Pro Fold in India at a hefty Rs. 1,72,999, making it one of the most expensive smartphones currently available in the country. This price tag places it squarely in competition with other high-end foldable devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. The phone will be available in a single 16GB+256GB RAM and storage configuration, offering ample space for demanding users. In terms of color choices, you can pick from Obsidian (a dark grey color) and Porcelain (a light white).
Unlike previous Pixel phones that were exclusively available through Flipkart, the Pixel 9 lineup, including the Pro Fold, will be sold through a broader network of retailers. You can find it at Flipkart, Croma, and Reliance Digital outlets. Google has also introduced Walk-in Centers in Delhi and Bengaluru where you can experience the device firsthand. A third Walk-in Center is scheduled to open in Mumbai in the future. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold goes on sale in India starting August 22.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold Specifications and Features
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a dual-SIM (Nano+eSIM) handset running on Android 14 out-of-the-box. Google assures users of seven years of Android OS, security, and Pixel Drop updates – a commitment to long-term usability and security. Powering this foldable powerhouse is Google’s Tensor G4 chipset, accompanied by a Titan M2 security coprocessor for added security layers. Paired with 16GB of RAM, the phone promises a smooth and responsive performance even while running demanding apps and multitasking.
The Screen Experience:
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold boasts an impressive 8-inch (2,076×2,152 pixels) LTPO OLED Super Actual Flex inner screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering a fluid and vibrant visual experience. The display supports up to 2,700 nits peak brightness, ensuring excellent visibility even under bright sunlight. On the outside, a 6.3-inch (1,080×2,424 pixels) OLED Actual display also features a 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection for increased durability. It also boasts the same 2,700 nits peak brightness as the inner screen.
A Powerful Camera Setup:
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold sets new standards in mobile photography with its robust camera system. The rear camera setup is a blend of precision and versatility:
- 48-megapixel wide-angle camera: With an f/1.7 aperture and optical and electronic image stabilization, this camera excels in capturing stunning images with great detail, even in low-light conditions.
- 10.5-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera: Featuring autofocus and an f/2.2 aperture, this camera expands the field of view, allowing you to capture breathtaking landscapes and group photos with ease.
- 10.8-megapixel telephoto camera: With up to 5x optical zoom and 20x Super Res Zoom, this camera enables you to zoom in on distant subjects without compromising image quality. It features an f/3.1 aperture and optical and electronic image stabilization for enhanced stability and sharpness.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold also houses a 10-megapixel camera with an f/2.2 aperture on both the cover display and the inner screen for high-quality selfies and video calls. Google has packed the phone with its proprietary camera and editing features, including:
- Add Me: This feature makes group photos easier by allowing you to take self-portraits with the rear camera.
- Hands-free astrophotography: Take stunning photos of the night sky without the need for a tripod.
- Face Unblur: This feature can automatically remove blur from faces in photos.
- Top Shot: This feature automatically captures multiple photos leading up to the moment you press the shutter button, allowing you to choose the best shot.
- Frequent Faces: This feature learns and recognizes the faces of your loved ones, making it easier to tag them in photos.
- Video Boost: This feature enhances video quality by analyzing the scene and adjusting settings accordingly.
- Wind Noise Reduction: This feature reduces wind noise in videos, making them clearer and easier to hear.
- Audio Magic Eraser: This feature allows you to remove unwanted sounds from audio recordings.
- Macro Focus Video: This feature allows you to capture videos with a close-up perspective.
- Made You Look: This feature provides a notification if someone is looking at your phone when it’s on the table.
- Magic Editor: This feature allows you to make complex edits to your photos, such as changing the background or removing objects.
Connectivity, Battery, and Security:
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold embraces modern technology with 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, GPS, ultra-wideband (UWB), and a USB 3.2 Type-C port for seamless connectivity. It also houses an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, gyroscope, e-compass, barometer, and proximity sensor.
The phone features a generous 4,650mAh battery which supports PPS charging (45W) for fast and efficient charging. The phone can also be charged wirelessly using Qi wireless chargers. For security, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers face unlock and fingerprint authentication, providing multiple layers of protection. It also has an IPX8 rating for water resistance, making it more durable than its predecessors.
Is The Pixel 9 Pro Fold Right For You?
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold embodies Google’s vision for a premium foldable experience, offering impressive features, powerful performance, and an exceptional camera system. The phone’s long-term support with seven years of software updates, security, and Pixel Drop updates is a testament to its commitment to long-term usability and value.
However, the price tag of Rs. 1,72,999 is a significant barrier to entry for the vast majority of users. It’s a phone that undoubtedly offers a premium experience but comes at a premium cost.
If you are looking for the most innovative foldable phone with cutting-edge features, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a tempting option. However, it’s a decision that requires careful consideration of your budget and priorities. If you are seeking a more affordable foldable alternative, other options exist, such as the Motorola Razr 40 or the Oppo Find N2 Flip.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant step forward for Google in the foldable smartphone market. It combines Google’s software expertise with a powerful hardware offering, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium foldable experience. However, its hefty price tag and stiff competition necessitate careful consideration before making a purchase.
