Here’s a Very Clear Real-World Look at Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold

In recent weeks, we've seen a flood of leaks showcasing every angle of Google's Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL. However, the company's second-generation foldable phone managed to keep a low profile—until now. As reported by Android Authority, new regulatory photos from Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC) have fully revealed the Pixel Fold 2, also known as the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

The images confirm that Google is moving away from the short and squat passport-style design that made the original Pixel Fold distinctive compared to Samsung’s tall and narrow Galaxy Fold. This time, Google seems to be taking inspiration from the OnePlus Open. The outer display remains very usable, offering ample screen real estate, but it’s definitely taller than before.

Yep, there’s still a crease. But maybe a less prominent one? 

Around the back, the photos reveal that the 9 Pro Fold will ditch the camera bar, which has become one of Google’s signature hardware elements. Instead, the new design features a different style of camera housing. While its exact name remains unclear, it looks substantial enough to prevent the phone from wobbling when laid flat on a table. The inner display also showcases a noticeably taller and narrower screen ratio compared to the original Fold, with thinner bezels.

So long, camera bar.

One tradeoff with the new design is that the inner camera is now a cutout on the upper-left part of the display, whereas previously it was integrated into the bezel, offering an uninterrupted display. While some might prefer the previous approach, the cutout is the compromise for the sleeker bezels. Another potential concern is the battery capacity. Google has opted for a slightly smaller 4,560mAh battery this time, compared to the 4,727mAh battery in the first Pixel Fold. The original Fold wasn’t known for its battery longevity, so hopefully, the latest Tensor processor will offer some efficiency gains to compensate.

The original Pixel Fold’s short, squat display made it such a good one-handed phone. But it’s a damn heavy one.

Having used the Pixel Fold as my daily driver for much of the past year, I can attest to its unique appeal. Despite being outclassed in screen brightness by the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, suffering from mediocre speakers, and lacking optimized apps, it still feels special. Here’s hoping the second iteration can address these shortcomings, even if it’s likely to cost upwards of $2,000 (approximately ₹1,64,000).

The new 45W charger looks quite a bit different than Google’s current wall plug.

The regulatory images also showcase a new 45-watt USB-C charger, which is likely to ship with some of these devices. The new charger features a more rounded design compared to the chargers that Google has included with Pixel phones in recent years.

Stay tuned to Kushal Bharat Tech News for more updates on the latest developments in technology and devices.