Google recently hosted its I/O 2023 developer event, where it unveiled its first foldable phone – the Pixel Fold. The device, boasting a horizontal folding design, is now available for pre-order in the US, with plans to expand to select global markets. Additionally, Google presented two other hardware products – the Pixel Tablet and the budget-friendly Pixel 7a smartphone.
Single Foldable Offering with Promise of More to Come
Despite the growing trend of multiple foldable offerings from competitors, Google announced only one foldable at the event. However, recent insights from an official podcast hint at a second foldable device under development.
Ivy Ross, Google’s head of design for hardware products, confirmed the existence of this second foldable. Though Ross refrained from disclosing further details about the product, she indicated the device’s launch was held back as it was not “good enough yet”. This suggests Google’s commitment to introducing a product that exceeds or at least matches the standards of existing models in the market.
The Second Foldable: Potential Design and Expectations
While the specifications of the second foldable remain undisclosed, speculations suggest a design similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip, which features a clamshell flippable design. Google’s approach to delaying the second foldable’s launch may result in a product with superior features compared to existing market models.
Competition in the Foldable Phone Market
Google’s Pixel Fold aims to rival Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 5, despite joining the foldable trend later than most competitors. With a design mirroring Oppo’s Find N2 model, the Pixel Fold provides a broader display compared to Galaxy Z Fold 4’s taller form factor.
Pixel Fold: A Deep Dive into Specifications
The Pixel Fold hosts a 5.8-inch full-HD+ outer display and a 7.6-inch inner foldable display with a 6:5 aspect ratio. Both displays support a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, providing users with smoother and more responsive interaction. Additionally, the device flaunts an IPX8 rating, offering water resistance.
For photography enthusiasts, the Pixel Fold offers a rear camera setup including a 49-megapixel primary camera, a 10.8-megapixel ultrawide, and a 10.8-megapixel telephoto camera. It features two selfie cameras – one on the outer display and one on the inner display bezel. Powering this device is the Google Tensor G2 processor, also found in the Pixel 7a, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro smartphones.
The Pixel Fold will initially be available only in Germany, Japan, the UK, and the US. The broader availability and potential for future foldable offerings reveal Google’s continued investment in innovating and expanding its hardware portfolio.
