Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold officially launches on October 9, 2025, starting at $1,799, and brings major improvements—most notably IP68 dust and water resistance, a powerful Tensor G5 chip, and new AI features.
Key Takeaways
- Release & Price: Launch is set for October 9, 2025; base model starts at $1,799.
- Durability: First foldable from Google with IP68 water + dust resistance, thanks to a new gearless hinge.
- Performance: Runs on the Tensor G5 chipset, paired with up to 16GB RAM and up to 1TB storage.
- AI features: Includes Google’s latest on-device AI tools like Magic Cue, Gemini Live, and other smart photo capabilities.
What’s New & Noteworthy
Release Details & Pricing
Google revealed the Pixel 10 Pro Fold on August 20, 2025, but because of production / supply constraints, it will only hit retail on October 9.
- Storage options: 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
- Pricing tiers:
- 256GB: $1,799
- 512GB: $1,919
- 1TB: $2,149
- Regions: In some markets (e.g. Qatar), local pricing is around QAR 6,500 for the base model.
Design & Durability
- Google designed this foldable with aerospace-grade aluminum and a gear-less hinge, which helps make it sturdier than before.
- The big headline: IP68 rating for both water and dust resistance—rare for foldables.
- Inner screen: 8-inch AMOLED, outer screen: 6.4-inch AMOLED, both with up to 120Hz refresh rate.
- Peak brightness is very high (reportedly up to 3,000 nits), making the displays usable even in direct sunlight.
- Google says the fold mechanism is built to endure up to 10 years of folding.
Performance & Hardware
- Powered by Tensor G5, built on a 3nm (or 4nm, depending on source) process.
- Memory: 16GB RAM across all variants.
- Battery: 5,015 mAh, with 30W wired charging.
- Wireless charging: Supports Qi2 magnetic charging, which works with Google’s PixelSnap system.
Camera System
- Triple rear setup:
- 48 MP wide (main)
- 10.5 MP ultra-wide
- 10.8 MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom, and up to 20x Super Res Zoom.
- Front cameras:
- 10 MP outer (cover)
- 10 MP inner (fold)
- Video supports 4K at 60fps, and Google’s AI tools (Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, etc.) help with post-processing.
Software & AI Features
- Ships with Android 16 and a “Material 3 Expressive” interface, according to leaks.
- AI capabilities:
- Magic Cue: Contextual assistance (e.g., flight details popped up during airline calls).
- Gemini Live: On-device intelligence for multitasking / suggestions.
- Camera AI: New tools like Instant View, Add Me, Best Take, and Camera Coach.
- Google reportedly includes a 1-year free Google AI Pro subscription for Pixel 10 Pro Fold buyers — covering services like Gemini, Imagen, and other cloud tools.
- Update promise: One report says up to 7 major Android upgrades.
Durability & Real-World Issues
- The IP68 rating is a big deal. According to The Verge, this is “a significant milestone for foldables.”
- However, some users on Reddit report charging issues: “Google says the issue is caused by using ‘incompatible’ wireless chargers … It is recommended Pixel 10 owners use certified Qi2 chargers.”
- On the positive side, many early owners praise the battery life and screen responsiveness: “Great battery life … inner screen and exterior screen all perfectly responsive.”
- As for the crease: some say it’s improved relative to Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
Implications for the Foldable Market
- Durability benchmark: With IP68, Google raises the bar. Other foldables often struggle with dust ingress; Google’s hinge design could set a new standard.
- AI on foldables: By putting advanced AI in a foldable, Google is blending productivity and intelligence. This could push foldables more into “work device” territory, not just premium gadgets.
- Value play: The $1,799 starting price hasn’t gone up compared to last-gen foldables. For buyers, that’s a strong signal: Google believes in this form factor and is serious about long-term investment.
- Consumer risk: Early adopter risk remains — reports of charging quirks and shipping delays mean some buyers will be cautious.
FAQ
Q1: When can I pre‑order the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold?
Pre-orders began on August 20, 2025, but the phone is expected to be widely available on October 9, 2025.
Q2: What storage and memory options are available?
You can choose between 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage. All variants come with 16GB RAM.
Q3: Is the Pixel 10 Pro Fold repairable or durable enough to justify its price?
It’s more durable than many foldables: IP68 rating and a gear-less hinge design help protect against dust and water.
But some users caution about using only compatible Qi2 chargers to avoid battery or charging issues.
