With a starting price of $1,799, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold stands as Google's priciest phone yet, featuring a more compact design and enhanced internal components.
Despite its premium status, this model lacks certain unique AI video features found in its non-folding siblings, the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL. According to PhoneArena, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is missing the Video Boost feature that debuted with the Pixel 8 Pro last year.
Video Boost Feature
Video Boost utilizes Google's cloud processing capabilities to enhance video quality. To activate it, users must record a video with the feature turned on, which is then sent to Google's servers for AI-driven improvements. Once processing is complete, users receive a notification that their "Boosted" video is ready for download. Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL models offer even more advanced results by supporting the upscaling of 4K videos to 8K and providing lossless 20x zoom with Video Boost. The processing speed is reportedly double that of the Pixel 8 Pro.
Although Video Boost's core operations are cloud-based, there are some hardware requirements, as noted by PhoneArena. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold, despite its high price tag, seemingly falls short of meeting these needs.
Camera System Comparison
Its camera setup includes a 48MP primary lens, a 10.5MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10.5MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, which doesn’t stack up against the 50MP primary, 48MP ultra-wide, and 48MP telephoto lenses with 5x optical zoom in the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL.
This disparity isn't unexpected, as foldable phones typically struggle to match the camera prowess of their non-folding peers. Similar differences can be seen between the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the Galaxy S24 Ultra. However, at a price point of $1,800, users might anticipate top-notch camera technology from Google in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This exclusion could be a potential dealbreaker for avid photographers.
Weighing Your Options
Ultimately, the choice hinges on what matters most to you. If video editing and high zoom capabilities are priorities, the Pixel 9 Pro series clearly has the edge.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a large, unfolded display and productivity, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold remains a compelling option. Just be mindful of its camera hardware and video processing limitations compared to the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL before making your decision.
