Google has officially announced the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, its latest addition to the foldable smartphone market. This marks the second book-style foldable from the tech giant, and here's some exciting news—you'll soon be able to get your hands on it in Singapore!
Before discussing its availability in Singapore, let's examine this innovative device's features.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Features and Specifications
Like its siblings, the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL, the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is powered by Google's latest mobile processor, the Google Tensor G4. This advanced processor drives all of Google's core AI features, graphics, and computing capabilities, making photo editing, browsing, and multitasking smoother and more efficient.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features two displays, following the typical design of book-style foldable phones. On the outside, you'll find a 6.3-inch Actua display, which matches the Pixel 9 Pro's size. Inside is an impressive 8-inch Super Actua Flex display, one of the largest in the market, boasting an 80% brightness increase over its predecessor.
Unique to the Pixel 9 Pro Fold are features like Split Screen for multitasking across apps, support for drag-and-drop in photos, and a dual-screen mode specifically for the Google Meet videoconferencing app. This lets you show participants your face and what you're viewing simultaneously.
Google has also collaborated with entertainment and gaming app developers to optimise Pixel 9 Pro Fold content. For instance, the Tabletop Mode (where the phone folds into an L-shape) enhances the gaming experience in titles like Asphalt Unite and Disney Speedstorm. You can expect even more titles, such as NBA Infinite and League of Legends: Wild Rift, to gain support later this year.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold offers all the AI features on other Pixel 9 series devices. At launch, you'll get access to features like Pixel Screenshots, Pixel Studio, Circle To Search, Summarise, and Google's AI assistant, Gemini. Additionally, you'll benefit from classic features like Magic Editor, Best Take, and Video Boost, along with newer additions like Add Me and Pro Controls.
Enhanced cameras for foldable formats
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 48MP main camera, a 10.5MP ultra-wide camera, and a 10.8MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. The cameras are supported by multi-zone Laser Detection Autofocus (LDAF) for precision and clarity.
The phone also offers classic foldable photography features, such as Dual Screen Preview, where you can view the viewfinder on both displays, Tabletop Mode for hands-free shooting, and the Rear Camera selfie function, which lets the outer display act as a selfie viewfinder. A new feature called Made You Look plays a fun animation on the secondary display to capture the attention of babies or pets while taking their pictures.
Other camera capabilities include support for Macro Focus, and both front cameras (on the folded and unfolded displays) now support Face Unlock.
Durability and design
Google has ensured the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is robust for daily use. It has an IPX8 water resistance rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. The device also features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced scratch resistance.
The phone's upgraded “fluid-friction” metal hinge is designed to open fully flat with a satisfying snap. While the hinge is made of steel, it's encased in an aluminium alloy for added durability.
Notably, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is one of the thinnest foldable phones available, measuring just 10.5mm when folded. This makes it slimmer than Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold6, which measures 12.1mm when folded. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is lighter and thinner than its predecessor.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold will be available in Singapore in the Obsidian colour. Pricing starts at S$2,399 for the 256GB model, with a 512GB option available for S$2,579. Unfortunately, the Porcelain colour option will not be available in Singapore. The phone will be available in retail stores from September 2024 onwards.
