Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold review: The foldable that finally finds its footing

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold marks a significant advancement in Google's foldable smartphone lineup, priced at ₹1,72,999, it occupies a premium niche. This iteration showcases an impressive evolution, featuring a robust hinge, enhanced display brightness, and improved battery longevity, making it the company's most refined offering yet. At first glance, the design may seem reminiscent of its predecessor, maintaining the same flat edges and rear camera layout. However, the new gearless hinge is a standout feature. It operates smoothly and quietly while offering IP68 protection against dust and water, which is a groundbreaking addition for foldables. Despite its weight of 258g, which can become noticeable during extended use, the device exudes a premium feel, especially with its sleek matte finish that tends to attract smudges. When it comes to display quality, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold does not disappoint. The 6.4-inch cover display has been widened for a more user-friendly experience, making typing more comfortable. The inner 8-inch LTPO OLED display supports a 120Hz refresh rate and maintains impressive brightness levels even in direct sunlight. While the bezels are thicker compared to competitors like Samsung, the overall viewing experience is enhanced by the consistent color accuracy and smooth touch response across both screens. Running on Android 16 with the new Pixel UI, the software experience is vibrant and responsive, although Google still faces challenges with multitasking features when compared to rivals. The split-screen functionality is available, but lacks the versatility seen in other foldable devices. Nonetheless, Google's AI capabilities shine through with features like Magic Cue, which provides timely information from various apps, though it remains limited to Google’s suite at this stage. Under the hood, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is powered by the Tensor G5 chip, coupled with 16GB RAM and 256GB of storage. While benchmark scores may not be stellar, real-world performance is impressive, particularly in gaming scenarios. Popular games like Call of Duty: Mobile run smoothly even at high settings, indicating that the device is well-optimized for its software. However, the camera system presents a mixed bag. Despite being branded as 'Pro', the hardware remains largely unchanged, featuring a 48MP main camera, a 10.8MP telephoto lens, and a 10.5MP ultrawide camera. While the main camera delivers vibrant colors, it falls short in sharpness, especially in zoomed images. The telephoto lens performs reasonably well in low light, but the ultrawide camera leaves much to be desired. Video capabilities, including 4K recording, also lag behind competitors. On a positive note, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold offers commendable battery life with its 5,015mAh capacity, easily lasting through a full day of intensive use. Charging options remain consistent with 30W wired and 15W wireless capabilities, supported by the new Pixel Snap magnetic charging system. In conclusion, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold demonstrates Google's commitment to refining its foldable technology, delivering a product that is more durable and user-friendly than its predecessors. While it excels in design and battery performance, the camera system still requires significant upgrades to justify its premium price point. For those who appreciate a clean Android experience with timely updates and thoughtful features, this device makes a compelling choice.