In a world where foldable smartphones are rapidly gaining traction, a key question arises: Is Google’s entry into this foldable market worth the hefty price tag? Today, the Pixel Fold joins the foldable lineup with a premium price and numerous features. But how does it compare to its competitors, and more importantly, is it worth the investment?
The foldable smartphone category is steadily gaining momentum, with key players such as Samsung, OnePlus, and now Google in the mix. According to recent reports, the market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20% this year, with foldable device shipments predicted to reach 798,000 units by the end of 2024. The Pixel Fold steps into this landscape as consumer interest in foldable innovation’s usability and relevance continues to grow.
At first glance, Google’s Pixel Fold resembles a regular smartphone. However, when unfolded, it transforms into an 8-inch tablet, providing both portability and a larger display. This adaptability is a major selling point for users who want more screen real estate without needing to carry two separate devices.
The Pixel Fold features a 6.3-inch OLED cover display with a 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. It supports up to 2700 nits of peak brightness, which is favourable for outdoor use. Unfolding the device reveals a large 8-inch inner display that offers ample space for multitasking and entertainment. But how does it stack up against competitors?
In the foldable market, Google faces tough competition from Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the OnePlus Open. Samsung’s foldable lineup, now in its sixth generation, benefits from brand strength and a robust marketing campaign. Meanwhile, OnePlus positions its foldable as a more affordable option, costing significantly less than its rivals. So, where does the Pixel Fold stand?
When it comes to photography, Google’s Pixel Fold is a worthy successor to the Pixel 6 series, thanks to Google’s prowess in software, computer science, and artificial intelligence (AI). Foldable phones generally don’t match the camera performance of non-foldable phones, but the Pixel Fold breaks this norm. It boasts a 48MP main camera, a 10.8MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 10.8MP ultrawide lens, delivering excellent camera quality for a foldable device.
However, hardware enthusiasts may find the Pixel Fold’s Tensor G4 chipset underwhelming, especially when compared to its competitors. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and the OnePlus Open’s processors outperform the Pixel Fold in benchmarks. Still, the Tensor G4, optimized for Google’s stock Android, offers smooth real-world performance, making this trade-off less noticeable for most users.
The Pixel Fold shines in its AI capabilities. Google has integrated its Gemini AI system into the Pixel Fold, offering features such as real-time language translation, enhanced image processing, and predictive text with machine learning. These AI-driven features make the Pixel Fold more than just a foldable phone — it’s a smart assistant in your pocket.
Samsung and OnePlus are still catching up in this area. While Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 is gradually incorporating more AI features, it is in the developmental stage. OnePlus, for its part, has yet to introduce significant AI innovations in its foldable devices. This positions Google as the leader in AI integration within the foldable market.
Now comes the crucial question: Is the Pixel Fold’s premium pricing justified? In India, the Pixel Fold is priced at ₹1,72,999, making it the most expensive foldable on the market. In comparison, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 starts at ₹1,65,000, and the OnePlus Open, with nearly all flagship features, is priced at ₹1,39,999 — making it the most affordable option in this segment.
For value-conscious buyers, the OnePlus Open is hard to beat. It offers competitive performance, decent cameras, and the novelty of a foldable form factor at a significantly lower price. However, for those who prioritize AI integration, software optimization, and a sleek design, the Pixel Fold’s higher price may be justified.
Google’s Pixel Fold brings something unique to the foldable phone market, especially in terms of artificial intelligence. Its sleek design, coupled with top-tier software, positions it as a high-end foldable device. While the hardware may not be groundbreaking, the AI integration and optimized Android experience make the Pixel Fold stand out.
However, the premium price tag may deter some buyers. For those seeking a foldable smartphone at a lower price, the OnePlus Open is the best option. Meanwhile, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers a balance of high performance and brand recognition.
Ultimately, Google’s Pixel Fold is a device for tech enthusiasts who prioritize AI and are willing to pay for cutting-edge innovation. But for value seekers, other foldables offer nearly the same features at a significantly lower cost.