Google Pixel Foldable | What we know so far
Foldable smartphones are growing in popularity thanks to efforts from Samsung and others. As the tech improves, though, other companies are getting in on the fun. Rumors have hinted that Google is working on a foldable for its Pixel smartphone lineup, and from the looks of it, it’s coming relatively soon. Here’s what we know so far.
Everything we know about the Google foldable
9to5Google first reported that Google was working on a Pixel foldable in August of 2020. In that report, we revealed the codename for the device was “Passport,” a codename we also spotted in May 2021 showing that the device is still in progress.
That codename also hints a bit at the design of the foldable. Like a physical passport, it seems possible the device will have a book-style fold for its display. A report from February also pinpointed a 7.6-inch display, further hinting at that design. For an idea of what that design could look like in person, we can look to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series. We reviewed the Z Fold 2 last year, with the form factor cementing the idea that this technology is the future of smartphones.
Like Samsung’s flagship foldable, reports claim that Google’s foldable will use ultra-thin glass to create a smoother internal display that feels better under the fingertip. It also helps with durability.
There are also some points of speculation that can be made regarding this device. It’ll likely be similar on the spec sheet to other Google Pixel phones, most likely mirroring the Pixel 6, which is expected to use Google’s custom “Whitechapel” chipset and offer two cameras.
When with Google release ‘Pixel Fold?’
Details are slim right now on Google actively releasing a Pixel foldable. One recent report claims that production for the display will start in October of 2021. Our original timeline said the device would release in 2021 — something that a display analyst says remains true.
If that is the case, it seems most likely that Google will release its first foldable late in 2021. November or December seems most likely based on an October start-of-production for the display, but the ongoing chip shortage and other factors could play a role in when this device makes its debut.
Stay tuned for 9to5Google’s full coverage.
