Google’s boldest foldable impresses and divides tech fans online

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold has taken over the internet after a wave of hands-on reviews went viral, giving the public its first real look at Google’s next-generation foldable flagship. Reviewers and early testers have flooded YouTube, X, and TikTok with impressions, praising its design, AI-driven features, and performance, while also pointing out some notable flaws. The buzz surrounding these early reviews has turned the Pixel 10 Pro Fold into one of the most talked-about smartphones of 2025, even before its official retail release.

One of the biggest highlights from the hands-on coverage is the redesigned hinge. Google has finally addressed one of the major complaints from previous generations—the bulky, uneven folding mechanism. The new hinge uses a gearless system, allowing for smoother motion, less creaking, and a tighter close with minimal gap between the screens. Reviewers noted that the hinge feels sturdier than Samsung’s Z Fold series, suggesting Google may have finally found the right balance between durability and usability. Combined with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold sets a new benchmark for ruggedness in foldable phones, a category that has long struggled with longevity concerns.

The displays are another area drawing strong reactions. The outer screen, a 6.4-inch OLED panel, delivers exceptional brightness and fluid 120Hz refresh rates, making it easier to use without unfolding. The inner display stretches to an 8-inch OLED panel that reviewers describe as “tablet-like” in clarity and smoothness. Several hands-on videos demonstrate improved multitasking—users can now drag and drop between apps, use split-screen more intuitively, and even resize windows fluidly thanks to Android 16’s updated interface. Many reviewers agree that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold finally feels like a foldable that can serve as both a phone and a small productivity device.

Under the hood, Google’s Tensor G4 chip is proving capable of handling intensive multitasking, AI features, and 4K video recording without overheating. Testers report smoother gaming performance, faster app loading times, and more consistent battery life compared to the previous Pixel Fold. The device’s AI capabilities have also impressed reviewers—features like real-time call translation, on-device text summarization, and enhanced voice commands make everyday use more intelligent and personalized. Google’s Gemini-powered AI even offers context-aware suggestions when switching between folded and unfolded modes, such as adjusting layouts or recommending apps based on user activity.

However, not all aspects of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold have been met with universal praise. The camera system, while capable, has received criticism for underperforming compared to Google’s own non-folding Pixel 10 Pro. The foldable’s compact camera array reportedly struggles with low-light performance and long-range zoom. While daytime shots remain excellent with strong color accuracy and detail, reviewers noted more noise and softer focus in challenging conditions. This trade-off may disappoint photography enthusiasts expecting Pixel-level camera dominance across all scenarios.

Another divisive factor is weight and ergonomics. At roughly 258 grams, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is heavier than most premium smartphones, and even slightly bulkier than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 6. Some reviewers commented that extended one-handed use leads to wrist strain, particularly during texting or photography. The wide aspect ratio also makes it tricky to operate with one hand, though many praised the improved grip texture and build materials, which include recycled aluminum and Gorilla Glass Armor. Overall, while its design is undeniably premium, its practicality for daily use may depend on how comfortable users are with its heft.

Despite the criticisms, many reviewers emphasize that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold represents a major step forward for Google’s hardware division. The combination of robust build quality, advanced AI integration, and smoother multitasking suggests that the company has learned from its earlier foldable missteps. Several tech influencers describe the device as the “first foldable that feels truly ready for everyday life,” while others caution that its $1,799 starting price may limit its appeal to enthusiasts rather than mainstream buyers.

The viral nature of these hands-on reviews has also fueled debates about the future of foldables in the U.S. market. Some viewers see the Pixel 10 Pro Fold as a glimpse of where smartphone innovation is heading, blending hardware sophistication with powerful software intelligence. Others argue that the category remains too expensive and niche to attract mass adoption. Still, the attention surrounding Google’s latest release proves that foldables are no longer a curiosity—they are fast becoming a key battleground for smartphone brands competing for high-end users.

In the end, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s viral moment underscores just how much excitement still surrounds cutting-edge mobile technology. It’s not a perfect device—its weight, camera compromises, and steep price tag leave room for improvement—but it represents a confident statement from Google about its place in the future of foldables. For fans of innovation, AI, and premium design, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold may very well be the most compelling Android device of the year.