The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to be announced alongside the other members of Google’s flagship lineup at the Made by Google event on August 20th.
I’m excited about the device in a way I wasn’t for its predecessor. There have been thorough leaks outlining most of what we can expect, and if rumors are true, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold will be more than meets the eye.
It’s not the flashiest design, and the competition is stiff this year, thanks to Samsung finally upgrading the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in meaningful ways. However, Google shouldn’t be ruled out.
Our friends in Mountain View have done an excellent job over the last couple of years, releasing solid hardware and reliable software. Leaks suggest Google is taking a different approach to its book-style foldable.
Here’s why Google’s entry is the one you’re quietly going to want.
Improved durability is a deciding factor
An IP68 rating matters
If rumors are correct, Google’s reached an important milestone with the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
An IP68 rating means more than just improved dust and water resistance. It’s peace of mind.
First impressions matter, and everyone’s heard a horror story about someone’s foldable breaking.
These devices are nothing like they were six years ago, and I’ve never had any significant issues. Still, there are occasional problems in the news, and any added durability measures are welcome.
I’ve used the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, and it’s a solid folding phone. The hinge is outstanding, and its IP48 rating would be enough for most people.
However, an IP68 rating for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold checks a box for many buyers. You won’t have to worry about using your phone outdoors or poolside, and for the first time, debris isn’t as much of a concern.
I still wouldn’t build a sand castle on top of my Pixel 10 Pro Fold at the beach, but daily use shouldn’t result in malfunctions.
I hear from so many people who avoid taking a chance on a folding phone because of perceived durability issues, and an IP68 rating on the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold removes a significant roadblock for buyers.
Book-style folding phones need bigger batteries
Google understood the assignment
Numerous rumors suggest the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold will have a 5,015mAh battery, making it over 600mAh larger than the battery in the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
That’s a significant difference, and it’s the primary reason why I’m excited about Google’s foldable.
I buy book-style foldables to use the expansive screen real estate I’m given — not worry about conserving battery. Unlike clamshell foldables, I’ll want to edit photos and multitask on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Battery life isn’t poor on the Galaxy Z Fold 7, but it’s also not outstanding. If you use the phone’s internal display heavily, you’ll notice the battery percentage melting away throughout your day.
I don’t spend $2,000 only to need a charger by dinnertime, and it was a clear miss on the Galaxy Z Fold 7. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold isn’t expected to have the same problem.
If Google can pair a bigger battery with a more power-efficient Tensor G5 chipset, we’ll have a winning combination to look forward to.
Something beautiful is coming to Pixels
Google’s done alright with Material 3 Expressive
I rarely get excited about software overhauls. One UI 7 was desperately needed on Samsung devices, and the company did an outstanding job, but it’s not something that moved the needle for me.
That’s not the case with Material 3 Expressive. Google’s Android 16 software refresh is fantastic, and I can’t wait to see how it looks on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
The company also did an excellent job streamlining its design, and Material 3 Expressive trickles down through the entire user experience.
It’s a matter of preference, and One UI 8 may be a selling point for you on the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
Still, I’m looking forward to Material 3 Expressive on the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, and I think it’s going to be an advantage for Google moving forward.
It’s going to be much closer than you’d think
It’s important not to judge a book by its cover.
At first glance, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold won’t look like much up against the much-improved Galaxy Z Fold 7.
However, under the hood, if rumors are to be believed, Google’s made the necessary improvements to add value to book-style foldables.
I’m all for an attractive design, but the functionality has to match.
It’s still early, but Google might come out ahead in areas that will matter most to consumers.
If I can’t use the large internal display most of the day on a single charge, what’s the point of spending all that money?
