I Tried the New Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

Impressive

So today I happened to be walking by a Google Store and realized they probably had the new Pixels. I’ve seen a lot of buzz around Google’s new folding phone so I was curious to try it, especially with the new iPhone announcement tomorrow. As I’ve stated in the past, I’m extremely disappointed at the lack of innovation in the smartphone space. As I’ve considered whether to replace my iPhone 15, I’ve come to the conclusion that very little has changed since at least the iPhone 12. While for almost 15 years, I was constantly upgrading my phone and felt a rush of joy at new technology, that about ended with the iPhone X and it’s a feeling I think we all miss.

Well, I went into the store and found the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold. I was immediately surprised at how small it was. I put it side by side with my 15 Pro Max and it was both narrower, shorter, and about the same thickness when closed. The front screen felt tiny compared to my large device in fact, but was crisp, bright, and clear.

And then I opened it.

Inside is a massive mini-tablet sized screen that is just beautiful. Just like its iOS cousins, navigation was fast and apps were very snappy. But I immediately started playing with the multi-tasking capabilities. For a power user like me having two apps side by side would be a total game changer instead of always swiping back and forth between them. Even more, the device was shockingly thin when open, so much so it made my iPhone feel thick in comparison. I actually had to look it up right now and it’s only 30g heavier than the iPhone although you don’t notice it.

So in a smaller device, you get significantly more advanced capabilities vs. the iPhone. I suddenly realized this was the device to give me those great feelings again. Alas, I use FaceTime and my Apple Card entirely too much to be able to switch devices. We pretty much know the iPhone 16 is the same old same old so I don’t expect to get excited tomorrow. We probably have years before Apple gives us anything as exciting as what I saw today.