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Google Android 13 Released Jun 2023 Discontinued

Google Pixel Fold

7.9 / 10
Compass Score
Based on 54 critic reviews
Android 13 Operating system
7.6" Screen size
48MP f/1.7 Main camera
Tensor G2 (5 nm) Processor
256/512 GB Storage
4,821 mAh Battery

Verdict

A powerful device that transforms from phone to tablet, with a sturdy design and impressive camera capabilities.

+
What's good
+ Durable hinge
+ Wide outer display
+ Good camera performance
+ Strong build quality
+ IPX8 water resistance
−
What's not
− Heavy weight
− Price is high
− Inner display crease
− Software not optimized
− Mediocre battery life
By category

Key specs

What critics say

Critic consensus

Compass Score
54 reviews
weighted by credibility
PC Magazine
PC Magazine
7

“The Google Pixel Fold offers solid performance and strong build quality in a versatile folding form factor but is outperformed by Samsung when it comes to productivity.”

Notebookcheck
Notebookcheck
8.5

“Google has managed to create a strong first foldable in the Pixel Fold, but it still reveals one or two weaknesses upon closer inspection.”

Ars Technica
Ars Technica

“The Pixel Fold proves that Google has a vision for foldables that isn't just a copy of what everyone else is doing. The focus on tablet apps is something only an ecosystem provider like Google can really take on, and it's exactly the kind of work Google should be doing. If Google can stick with this sort of thing (that's a big if), it can bring a lot of value to foldables. The hardware of the Pixel Fold is very impressive. Google isn't usually able to lead the industry in things like battery density and thinness, but the Pixel Fold actually uses better hardware than what you can buy from the competition.”

9to5Google
9to5Google

“Almost a year into its life, the Pixel Fold is a device I really want to love, but it’s pretty clear that this was just a stepping stone to something better. Google took a big, bold risk with this device, and I think it was a good one. But at the end of the day, I don’t think many will look back on this first generation all that fondly. Just like what happened with the original Galaxy Fold. It’s good, it’s better than many expected, but it needed some more time in the oven.”

Third-party data

Testing & benchmarks

DxOMark v5 · Camera
133
Photo 137 · Video 131
#86 globally
Video reviews

Watch before you decide

Reviews
Google Pixel Fold Review: Maybe Next Year!
Marques Brownlee
Long-term
Why Are People Buying the Original Google Pixel Fold in 2026?!
C Butler
Long-term
REVIEW: Google Pixel Fold in 2025 – Worth It? Surprising Cameras Now on Pixel 10?
OSReviews
A 2025 Day in the Life With The Google Pixel Fold
HYLR
Pixel Fold Camera Conclusion: FORMERLY The Best Cameras on a Folding Phone…
JuanBagnell
I Took 100 Photos with the Google Pixel Fold
Soldier Knows Best
Comparisons
OnePlus Open vs. Magic V2 vs. Pixel Fold vs. Galaxy Z Fold 5 Battery Test
PhoneBuff
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs. Pixel Fold: How Do Their Specs Compare?
CNET
Do I Miss My Pixel Fold? Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Pixel Fold
Shane Craig
Google Pixel Fold Real-World Test (Camera Comparison, Battery Test, & Vlog)
TheUnlockr
Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Pixel Fold: Seriously Wasn’t Expecting This…
GregglesTV
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold vs Google Pixel Fold
Tech through Toni
OnePlus OPEN Vs PIXEL FOLD Review – Best Foldable??
Xavier Arthur
Pixel Fold vs iPhone 14 Pro Camera Comparison
Daniel Sin
The New King |RAZR Fold Vs Z Fold 7 Vs Pixel Fold
Nathan B Tech
Battery tests
Google Pixel Fold – Real Day In The Life Review (Camera & Battery Test)
Naseem Speach

In Depth

Design

The Pixel Fold feels luxurious with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus finish, providing a sturdy hold in hand. Designed to fold flat, the phone minimizes dust and debris accumulation inside the hinge.

At 283 grams, it’s heavier than typical phones, making it feel substantial in your pocket or hand. Some reviews noted a ‘sturdy, high-quality’ hinge that inspires durability confidence.

IPX8 water resistance offers peace of mind against spills, though dust protection is absent, so handle with care in dusty environments.

Display(s)

The outer screen is broader than what you find on similar smartphones, which makes it practical and easy to use. Many people find they use this screen the most, reducing the need to unfold the phone constantly.

When you open it up, the larger 7.6-inch screen shines, perfect for working on two apps at once or exploring more content effortlessly. This flexibility makes it versatile and handy for varied tasks.

As Android Authority notes, the “Pixel Fold’s wider form factor makes multitasking a dream.” It transforms your tasks on a bigger display.

Performance

The foldable’s performance is driven by the Google-designed Tensor G2 chip, which supports smooth multitasking and a quick response time. Everyday tasks flow seamlessly, offering a premium user experience.

However, the phone does generate noticeable heat during intensive tasks, a common point of feedback among reviewers, which can impact comfort.

While the chipset excels in AI tasks, games and demanding apps might not perform as well compared to its Snapdragon rivals. Many apps also remain unoptimized for the foldable setup, limiting some of its productivity potential.

Software & Storage

The Pixel Fold leverages a well-optimized interface designed for folding devices. Google’s apps like Gmail and Weather provide a split view, enhancing usability with large displays.

This UI supports drag-and-drop between apps, although as Notebookcheck noted, “the number will increase in the future,” indicating ongoing app enhancement efforts.

The device ensures long-term support with three major upgrades up to Android 16, providing a future-proof platform.

Cameras

You’ll experience great clarity and natural colors with the Pixel Fold’s 48MP main camera, perfect for taking sharp and detail-rich photos. Reviewers highlight that it shines in daylight, capturing crisp images with balanced colors and contrast.

An ultra-wide lens and periscope zoom add versatility, though reviewers at Notebookcheck mention that low-light performance can introduce noise, so this is a factor to consider if night photography is your focus. Reviewers note this camera setup “takes foldable phone photography to the next level,” giving you a flexible photography tool.

While selfies are decent, using the main rear camera for the task makes them stand out with heightened quality. Video capabilities extend to 4K, presenting a smooth viewing experience, making it a well-rounded device for content creators.

Battery

The Pixel Fold stands out with excellent battery life, even in tablet mode. You can unfold it to enjoy its tablet-like features without worrying about running low on juice. This is perfect for productivity or enjoying your favorite shows during long commutes or breaks. Reviewers note you can comfortably use the Pixel Fold’s features throughout the day.

Wired charging speed efficiently powers the device, thanks to power delivery support. You’ll need less time plugged in, which is handy for busy days. Although wireless charging is slower, it’s there methodically for overnight charging. This makes the Pixel Fold practical for those who enjoy the best of both phone and tablet experiences without constant charging concerns.

“The Pixel Fold ended our battery test with a 69% charge remaining, which is phenomenal,” praised experts.

Audio

The Pixel Fold’s dual speakers deliver clear and balanced audio, ensuring movies and music sound robust and immersive. According to Notebookcheck, the audio is clear, with the speakers “capable of decent audio” for various purposes.

For phone calls, its voice quality is notably high, with efficient background noise filtration, as reported by Notebookcheck. This guarantees you can communicate effectively, even in busy environments.

The Bottom Line

This foldable stands out with its innovative design, offering a practical outer screen that functions like a standard phone, while also providing a large interior display for multitasking and media consumption. The camera quality is impressive for a foldable, providing vibrant and detailed photos. Experts from Notebookcheck observed that “the Pixel Fold does a really good job” in capturing detailed images. Its solid build leaves no gaps when closed, adding durability. Keep in mind the weight and handling, as it’s heavier compared to conventional phones, but the unique form factor aims to balance the overall experience.

Common questions

What people actually want to know

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Community

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