Pixel 10 Pro Fold Battery To Get Much Larger
In the evolving world of foldable smartphones, Samsung has made thinness and larger camera systems a primary focus for their devices this generation. While a 4.2mm thickness is undeniably impressive for a foldable device, it often comes with a trade-off: battery capacity. Google, however, appears to be marching to the beat of its own drum with the upcoming Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
A fresh leak from Android Headlines suggest that while the Pixel 10 Pro Fold will maintain a design similar to its predecessor, their might be a good reason. This might seem counterintuitive in a market obsessed with ever-slimmer devices. However, Google's rationale becomes clear when you look at what they are gaining: a significant increase in battery size. This strategic decision prioritizes real-world usage over a headline-grabbing thinness. Last years’ Pixel 9 Pro Fold packed a 4,650mAh battery, which tended to get me through the day just fine. With the 10 Pro Fold Google is apparently increasing that to a whopping 5,015mAh battery. Taken with the Tensor G5, which should be much more efficient than last year’s chip, the new Fold could be a battery champ.
To be clear, this isn’t a silicon-carbon battery, just a larger traditional lithium-ion cell. Charging speed is also getting a small bump to 23w, but I think there could be a bigger improvement in reality. My 9 Pro Fold often fell below the stated 21w while charging due to heat. If the Tensor G5 is truly better, this might not happen as often.
Google's pragmatic approach extends to the camera system as well. Instead of chasing the latest flagship camera sensors that often necessitate a larger, more prominent camera bump, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to utilize the same sensor that’s found in the Pixel 9a. Google's computational photography prowess is well-documented, capable of producing stunning images even with less bleeding-edge hardware. By opting for a sensor that allows the camera bump to remain a reasonable size, Google avoids the aesthetic and practical drawbacks of an overly protruding camera module. It keeps the device sleek, comfortable to hold, and less prone to wobbling on flat surfaces.
The most noticeable physical evolution for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold lies in its cover screen. Reports suggest that the hinge area has been subtly shrunk, allowing the cover display to expand slightly. This minor but impactful adjustment means a more expansive and usable external screen without drastically altering the device's overall footprint. Beyond this refinement, the general design aesthetic and dimensions are expected to remain largely consistent with the previous generation, signaling Google's contentment with its current form factor.
When it comes to software, Google continues to forge its own path, notably refraining from implementing multi-app split window functionality or comprehensive floating windows that some competitors offer. This approach, which diverges from what many power users might expect on a large foldable display, is another clear example of Google doing things their own way. It remains to be seen what exactly software tricks, foldable or otherwise, they have up their sleeve for the 10 Pro Fold, but it's likely to be something uniquely Google.
Ultimately, Google's strategy with the Pixel 10 Pro Fold seems to be about finding a sensible balance. While competitors are pushing boundaries in terms of slimness, Google is focusing on delivering a well-rounded user experience. By prioritizing battery life and a manageable camera design, they are creating a foldable phone that might just be more practical and enjoyable for the everyday user. It's a refreshing approach that underscores Google's commitment to thoughtful engineering over chasing spec sheet bragging rights.