Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold Revolutionizes Durability in Foldable Phones, Achieves First IP68 Rating

Google’s Pixel 10 Pro Fold marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of foldable smartphones, focusing on what has long been the Achilles’ heel of the category: durability. As of late 2025, Google’s latest foldable is not just a refinement over its predecessor—it’s a calculated bet that foldables can finally be as sturdy and reliable as traditional slab phones, without sacrificing the unique experiences that only folding screens can provide.

Design and Build: Sturdiness at the Forefront

At first glance, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold may not look dramatically different from the Pixel 9 Pro Fold[1][2]. The engineering, however, tells a different story. Google has introduced a gearless hinge, which is twice as durable as the previous version and now closes with almost no gap[1][4][5]. This design minimizes the entry of dust and debris, long a concern for foldable users, and significantly reduces the risk of accidental screen damage during daily use. The phone is now the first foldable to achieve an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, putting it on par with the sturdiest slab phones and setting a new industry standard[1][4][5].

The phone’s chassis uses aerospace-grade aluminum and a fingerprint-resistant coating. Impressively, the device is also eco-conscious, incorporating at least 29% recycled materials and featuring 100% plastic-free packaging[3]. At 9.1 oz, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is not the lightest foldable, but the extra heft underscores its solid construction[3].

Display: Large, Bright, and Reinforced

Google has improved both displays: there’s now a 6.4-inch Super Actua cover display and a massive 8-inch Super Actua Flex inner display[4][3]. The inner screen employs ultra-thin glass sandwiched between two layers of anti-impact film, providing drop protection that Google claims can withstand over 10 years of folding[4]. Both screens are brighter than before, making outdoor use much more pleasant[1]. Notably, the bezels around the display are somewhat thick compared to competitors, which may be a trade-off for added durability[1].

Performance: Tensor G5 and AI Integration

Under the hood, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold runs on Google’s latest Tensor G5 processor and includes 16GB of RAM[3][7][8]. While this chip powers daily tasks with ease and enables advanced AI-assisted features, it trails some competing processors in synthetic benchmarks[1]. Nonetheless, real-world performance remains strong, especially for users invested in Google’s software ecosystem.

The phone launches with Android 16 and is packed with Google’s latest AI capabilities. Features like Magic Cue (contextual information from apps and screenshots), Gemini Live with video view, and camera coach make the Pixel 10 Pro Fold more than just a hardware upgrade—it’s a showcase for the future of context-aware smartphones[1][4].

Camera: Capable, but Not the Pinnacle

The triple rear camera system includes a 48MP main sensor, a 10.5MP ultrawide, and a 10.8MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom[1][3][5]. While this setup is solid, it doesn’t match the more advanced camera systems found in the Pixel 10 Pro slab phones, which feature higher-resolution sensors and better low-light capabilities[1]. The main camera delivers good detail, especially in daylight, but the ultrawide and telephoto lenses are less impressive, particularly in low light[1]. For many users, the camera will be “good enough,” but photography enthusiasts may be better served by Google’s non-folding flagships.

Battery and Charging: Bigger and Faster

With a 5015 mAh battery, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold offers up to 30+ hours of battery life, a notable improvement for foldables[4][7][8]. It supports fast charging (50% in 30 minutes with a 30W charger) and is the first foldable to feature Qi2 wireless charging with Google’s new Pixelsnap magnetic accessories, even when unfolded[4]. However, it lacks the 25W Qi2 charging found in the Pixel 10 Pro XL, and vapor chamber cooling is reserved for Google’s slab models[1].

Software and Multitasking: Still a Work in Progress

Google’s software experience is polished, packing all the expected Pixel features plus new AI enhancements. However, multitasking on the foldable still lags behind competitors like Samsung, which offers more flexible multi-window options[1]. App optimization remains inconsistent, as many third-party apps do not fully take advantage of the foldable’s large screen. Google continues to encourage developers to improve support, but it’s an area where the Pixel Fold series has room to grow[1].

Environmental Credibility

With ECOLOGO certification, a high percentage of recycled materials, and a strong focus on packaging sustainability, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is one of the most eco-friendly foldables to date[3]. This may appeal to users who want cutting-edge tech without compromising on environmental values.

Pricing and Value Proposition

At a retail price of $1,799, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is $200 cheaper than Samsung’s ZFold 7[1]. Occasional discounts make it more accessible, but it remains a premium device. For users who prioritize durability and want a stock Android experience with the latest AI features, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is easily the best Google has ever offered in the foldable category[1].

Conclusion: Google’s Commitment to Sturdy Foldables

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold isn’t the thinnest or flashiest foldable, nor does it offer the very best cameras. But its combination of industry-leading durability, useful AI features, and a strong focus on sustainability sets it apart. For anyone who has hesitated to try a foldable due to concerns about longevity or reliability, Google’s latest bet may finally be the one that makes foldables genuinely practical for everyday use.

Original source: TechCrunch – Pixel 10 Pro Fold review: Google’s bet to make foldables sturdy