The original Google Pixel Fold's wider aspect ratio delivers superior content consumption compared to newer square-foldable designs, according to a MakeUseOf analysis published January 2. Despite hardware limitations including a Tensor G2 chipset and 283-gram weight, the 2023 foldable's 7.6-inch display handles widescreen video and productivity tasks more effectively than current models.
Modern foldables like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 use nearly square aspect ratios that create larger black bars during video playback. The original Pixel Fold's wider display shows more content for widescreen films and provides better multitasking space for spreadsheet management and word processing, the analysis found.
Productivity advantages extend to tablet mode, where the Pixel Fold's width and weight provide stability that newer ultra-thin models lack. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 reportedly topples over in flex mode due to its lightweight design, according to MakeUseOf, while the Pixel Fold's 12.1mm thickness enables reliable half-opened laptop-style usage.
Android 16 updates continue improving the original Pixel Fold with Material 3 Expressive and multitasking features from newer models. The device remains upgradeable to Android 16 and refurbished units are available for around $500 in 2026, representing significant depreciation from its $1,799 launch price.
Current foldable market consolidation leaves consumers with limited form factor choices. The U.S. market now features essentially identical square-foldable designs across Samsung, Google, and OnePlus devices, abandoning the Pixel Fold's distinctive wider approach that inspired Galaxy Z Fold models with expanded aspect ratios.
Verizon offers four Pixel 10 Pro XL devices at no cost with new Unlimited Welcome plan lines through October 31, 2026, according to Android Central. The promotion requires 24-36 month commitments with $25 monthly line fees and $40 activation charges per device, totaling $2,400-$3,600 in service costs over contract periods.
Sky provides free Pixel Watch 3 LTE units worth £499 with Pixel 10 Pro purchases through January 7, the Manchester Evening News reported. The 45mm smartwatch includes 24-hour battery life with always-on display and connects to Fitbit Premium for workout tracking and sleep analysis.
Google's product development has shifted toward conservative hardware approaches, 9to5Google analysis suggests. The company abandoned experimental devices like Google Clips and hasn't released flip-style foldables despite earlier indications of broader hardware ambitions.
Pixel 10 Pro devices feature Tensor G5 processors with on-device AI capabilities including real-time voice translation and context-aware operations across apps. The camera system includes 50MP main sensors with Pro Res Zoom technology that cleans images at up to 100x magnification using diffusion models.
The original Pixel Fold's durability concerns have been "significantly overblown" according to the MakeUseOf analysis, with units remaining functional years after launch despite early Galaxy Z Fold models experiencing crease cracking within one to two years of use.
Foldable design standardization reflects broader industry trends toward risk-averse product development. Google's current hardware portfolio focuses on established categories including phones, tablets, watches, and smart home devices rather than experimental form factors like smart glasses or dedicated AI devices.
Market availability for the original Pixel Fold includes Amazon listings at $550 and Woot offers at $519. The device's continued software support through Android 16 and competitive pricing position it as a viable alternative to newer $1,199-$1,349 flagship foldables from Samsung and Google.
