Google unveils the Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A ‘Phone-First’ approach with sleek design and enhanced camera features

Top 3 Key Points:

1. Pixel 9 Pro Fold is thinner by 1.5mm when closed and 0.7mm when open, focusing on a ‘phone-first’ design.
2. The new double-stacked camera bar boosts battery capacity and camera capabilities.
3. Features an all-new vapor chamber for improved cooling and a durable, sleek hinge design.

Google’s latest release, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, brings major improvements in both design and functionality, setting it apart from its predecessor. One of the standout achievements is how much thinner it is—1.5 millimeters when closed and 0.7 millimeters when open—offering a sleeker and more practical foldable experience.

Based on user feedback, Google focused on creating a “phone-first” design. According to Claude Zellweger, the team recognized that people primarily use the device as a regular smartphone, even though they appreciate the versatility of a foldable.

This design shift is evident in the camera bar of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which now features a double-stacked setup. Unlike previous models, the new camera design doesn’t span the full width of the device. However, this choice wasn’t just about aesthetics—it also allowed Google engineers to fit a larger battery into the device, improving both battery life and the overall balance of the phone when placed on surfaces. The camera system also features custom optical modules, enabling professional-grade photography features, and aligning the foldable more with high-end smartphones.

To keep the device compact, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold incorporates custom components like a thinner haptics driver and a smaller USB-C port. These elements help reduce bulk without compromising functionality. Google has also introduced an all-new vapor chamber and a graphite thermal spreader for better heat management, ensuring that the phone stays cool during intensive use.

Lastly, the device’s hinge has been refined. Built with multi-alloy steel and high-strength aluminum, the new hinge design is more durable than its predecessor and contributes to the phone’s thinner profile. Google also took special care in crafting the “snap” sound of the hinge when closing the device, which they describe as satisfying and tactile.

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold showcases Google’s commitment to delivering a cutting-edge foldable that balances innovation with practicality, all while maintaining the sleekness and durability users expect.