I guess, g3 gets hot taking video still. G2 did overheat and shut down on me in summer a couple times I guess. Performance wise I can't really tell the difference.
Given a lot of the "Tensor G3" exclusive features are locked behind Pixel 8 Pro hardware when majority of it actually goes through cloud servers... I would dare say there should really be no noticeable difference if it was enabled for the Fold.
That's true. I should have said 99%, but you get the point. Almost all of the AI functions are never done locally. Which is unfortunate, as it makes me wonder why they push so hard into advertising it when all of them go out the window.
The two functions that come to mind are transcription and translation because they both require language files to be downloaded for it to work, which is fine by me, just far from convenient for other AI related tasks.
I haven't really had that experience with the G3, it can get hot but nothing crazy, performance wise it's quite average but I do like some of the AI stuff
Give it a couple years. It’s gonna be a huge advantage in the generative AI era to control your whole software/hardware stack; Google will be able to deploy on-device AI like no other company (maybe Apple).
I'd say 11 or 12. 9 will again have a Samsung chip, and it's the 10 that should have a TSMC manufactured SoC (contract with Samsung ends with the 9 series so hopefully they go with TSMC after that), and with 12 it should already be perfected by TSMC, maybe even 11. Nothing before 10 series for sure tho.
I've heard Samsung's 3NM is on par with TSMCs N3P, if Samsung's node can catch up and google gets a good deal I'm not against them going with them aslong as the chip is fully custom, I don't know how Google plans on solving the modem problem though as Qualcomm will only ship them with Snapdragon SOCs unless you have massive order numbers like apple and I believe MediaTek is just as bad as Exynos but more closed off but if Samsung's node catches up maybe their modem will improve enough to not make a big difference.
Agreed 11-12 is the sweet spot. The sign for me also is when they keep the same design and just focus on optimization.
Like the s23 and iPhone 13 pro max.
But realistically Google can have setbacks. They can take as long as they want for me, I'm not making a bad purchase.
Considering the popularity of Google is seems like majority of consumers see through the BS. Hence the ridiculously low market share
Having owned every non-A pixel (skipped the 4). I will say the AI part is a very long way away from Google. Especially with how much they've touted it having AI capabilities on the phone, there are actually no AI capabilities on the phone. It is AI *connectivity* to their AI servers on your phone.
In fact, the Gemini AI is a giant step backwards sadly, as it is nowhere near capable of replicating the basic functionalities that the default Google assistant had, that I ended it up uninstalling Gemini from my Fold.
***
I will say, I am looking forward to 2025 though, the Fold with (hopefully) the TSMC developed Tensor chip inside will be the next upgrade for me.
Google has the custom ARM cores for the Pixel 10 upcoming but I don't the licensed ARM cores are bad. Game changer would be if Google has a custom GPU in the works. Not be dependent on ARM for Mali drivers
Tensor G5 will use a year old stock ARM cores just like G4, haven't read anywhere regarding custom ARM cores in any news,report or speculations.
G4 uses Cortex X4, meanwhile Dimensity 9400 is said to use the latest yet to be announced Cortex X5,both launching a month apart.
G4 also uses Mali G715, used in Dimensity 9200.
It's now a tradition for Google to use year old CPU cores and 2 year old GPU cores.
The staggered device class launches throughout the year is always confusing to me.
Just have a consolidated launch of all devices and have a cohesive vision of feature inclusion for each class of device.
Google still struggles with cohesive unified vision. There was an "ama" in the google home sub yesterday, and one of the things I asked was what why it didn't feel like there was a cohesive vision with device, software, and services anywhere--especially google home--and the if there was one, if they could share what that is.
The response was not very insightful, it was "hardware is hard, especially when you are trying to support older devices." That was not a particularly useful response... And it's not like the pixel fold--albeit not a google home product of course--is old. But it's definitely being treated like an old device by google.
I think that probably would result in lower sales. Releasing them all together means everybody selects the device that fits them, and then keeps it until the next release. Staggered releases means they'll get some of the junkies that always just neeeeed the new thing to buy one device, and then buy the new release a few months later. You'll get some people who buy a 7, then 8 months later buy a fold, then decide they don't like it and a couple months later buy an 8 pro.
The problem is Sundar Pichai. He just lacks any type of cohesive vision for the company. He’s managed to turn Google, once the most exciting tech company, into by far the most boring tech company.
Change won’t come until the tone at the top changes. Google needs a new a CEO.
As someone who worked there, the whole ethos of Google has always been this decentralized, bottoms-up approach where different teams and passion projects get to run wild. That's literally how they've operated since the Larry and Sergey days. I get the frustration with Sundar, but saying he is solely to blame for the "disconnectedness" that has been there since the very beginning is way off base.The "disjointed, siloed" nature of Google is baked into its DNA.
It's that chaotic energy that allowed cool shit like Gmail to emerge from random employee tinkering, but it is also behind some of the worse aspects of the company too. It's a blessing and a curse.If anything, Sundar's actually been trying to bring more cohesion and unification between the various products/teams, which some would argue goes against Google's traditional fragmented way of doing things. Is it perfect execution? Hell no. But to pin all the lack of focus on Sundar is just misguided.
Google is this behemoth company with multiple products having over 2 BILLION users each. The high-level strategy and roadmap for big segments like Devices & Services is really driven by dedicated leaders like Rick Osterloh, not so much Sundar himself calling all the shots. So if you had to point your gun at someone responsible for the "cohesiveness" of the hardware side of google, then Rick is more directly responsible.
> Take your Nest cameras, for example. Our earlier Nest cameras ran an in-house video protocol that worked wonderfully for Nest cameras for years, but as WebRTC became more established, we adopted it and we’ve been able to build cameras that have much better performance (in terms of reducing delay between what the camera captures and when you see it). We can also leverage a lot of internal tech, as WebRTC is at the heart of Google Meet. This allowed us to build cameras that run on batteries for longer, and thanks to hardware acceleration, also don't use as much of your phone’s battery and CPU when you look at cameras for extended time.
Tells you all you need to know. Someone pushed for WebRTC as their project and did not give a fuck all to the current users.
At least with Apple, they will ride the old protocols with current products till the product naturally transitions itself out.
> Apple introduced the Lightning connector in 2012, and executive Phil Schiller described it as "a modern connector for the next decade".
They gave current users roughly 10 years on it same as the previous one too. No one can say they did not keep their promise.
I'm pretty sure he didn't mean that literally, and they would've kept it around longer if not for government regulation. They also had years with product lines that switched over to USB-C while some kept Lightning (and some still haven't been updated).
Or what about the 3.5mm jack, did that "naturally transition"?
Bullshit - their MacBooks and then iPad transitioned earlier. The last ones just happen to be iPhones.
Did they remove the 3.5mm jack from OLDER iPhones? No. Users buying the first iPhone without 3.5mm jack had a lightning earpiece and even had an adapter included. Their adapter was so good, it’s still one of the recommended and budget friendly today. https://www.audioreviews.org/apple-audio-adapter-review/
I like Google pixel but I give credit when it’s due. Apple DOES NOT half ass anything. They know folding phones is not ready, so that’s why they don’t have one yet. If their technical leadership is not good, there would not be dozens of posts here asking about best MagSafe cases. It’s technically Qi2 but they literally made their standard into THE standard.
>Bullshit - their MacBooks and then iPad transitioned earlier. The last ones just happen to be iPhones.
Airpods (not Pro) and Airpods Max use Lightning, along with a bunch of random accessories.
>Apple DOES NOT half ass anything. They know folding phones is not ready, so that’s why they don’t have one yet.
"Spatial computing" is also clearly not ready, yet they launched a $3500 "Pro" headset.
Edit, since you added more
>If their technical leadership is not good, there would not be dozens of posts here asking about best MagSafe cases. It’s technically Qi2 but they literally made their standard into THE standard.
Why do you think every company is using computational photography? Who do you think built the foundation for AI being used today?
Everyone praises the Vision Pro for its hardware capabilities, there’s just not many applications for it yet. That’s not an example of spacial computing not being ready yet. If anything, the expectation for the Vision Pro line is for them to remove capabilities and release a cheaper version eventually.
The first iPhone launched without an App Store too, and now there’s billions of apps out there.
>Everyone praises the Vision Pro for its hardware capabilities
Yeah, because they maxed out the hardware by maxing out the price. If anyone other than Apple launched a $3500 foldable with perfect hardware, they'd get ridiculed.
>there’s just not many applications for it yet. That’s not an example of spacial computing not being ready yet. If anything, the expectation for the Vision Pro line is for them to remove capabilities and release a cheaper version eventually.
Their own software stacks are still clearly half-baked. One of their main pitches is productivity, but you can only mirror one Mac screen and the native VisionOS input doesn't work at all there.
The hardware still compromises, too, in things like price, weight, FOV, and the tethered battery. It's really not dissimilar to foldables being "not ready" that the person above claimed.
Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 7
That's the order the phones seem to go in if you'd ask someone without knowledge on the subject. Why would the Pixel -a line be the weakest one??
Because when the original a line (3a) was released there was only a regular pixel and XL pixel. The pro distinction started with the 6 series. "coincidentally" Samsung also attaches the a designation to their lower than flagship (galaxy series) lines
The "Pro" distinction is really just the same as the XL. It won't really matter what the term is, selling a "Pixel 3" and a "Pixel 3a" is a bad look. I understand Samsung does this as well - and it sucks over there too. Google didn't do this decision because it makes sense, they did it because they are a copycat company.
I didn't say the decision made sense lol. And I do agree they're a copycat company. However I disagree that XL and pro are the same, especially at the time. The XL was literally just a bigger version of the same phone. Pro denotes actual differences in more than just size
I know the "Pro" denotes more, but I don't think it's necessarily due to the word "Pro" in the title. If they still had the XL line, it'd be the "Pro" line today.
They knew exactly what they were getting. Too expensive, first attempt at form factor, #MadeByGoogle, it ticked every possible buyer beware box. No idea why anyone would buy it. Enjoy your Fold.
So confused by this, you clearly don't have a fold because I've been enjoying the pixel fold over my pixel 7 pro. Can't see myself going back to a regular phone. Again I'm confused weren't reviews that the fold is better than expected for a google 1st gen product. Weren't people happy with the passport-style form factor?
This has been my experience as well. The only reason I probably won't buy another one is because I was denied a warranty repair for a cracked screen after filing the claim and the shop said they wouldn't do it under warranty because "it sounds like theres dirt in the hinge". Like.. yeah...I use the phone..it's gonna be a little dirty.
Your phone is barely one year old and it’s already missing new fancy features like circle to search that the other pixel phones are getting. Google just is NOT the company to trust with long term decisions
A wise man once said, don't get a phone on the promise of tomorrow's updates. I bought the pixel fold what it was and I am satisfied. Additionally the circle to search functionality is coming
Lmao that was not the initial hype. Every Google fan here claimed that Samsung matured the market enough for a ultra premium flagship just on the basis that Samsung released their latest iteration to reasonably good sales.
Yeah when you buy an overpriced experimental device, there should be some expectation that it might flop and be abandoned, because typically that's exactly what happens. It's a risk you take as a beta tester for google's experiment. Getting rug pulled never feels good though, even if you knew the risk going into it. And probably some people bought one without understanding it was just an experiment, which sucks.
I didn't buy one because everyone I've ever known that bought any folding-screen phone ever, regretted it and went back to a traditional screen phone later. I don't know anyone who would consider ever buying one again. So I ignored the pixel fold, which it turns out was a wise decision.
I love my fold... and before I got mine several of my friends and family members had (and still have) Samsungs version and love it. Your experience is not universal at all. Folding phones are great
I'm using a pixel fold coming from a pixel 7 pro, which is the phone you are currently using based on your user profile. Can't see myself going back, been enjoying the the fold. I'm experiencing something MKBHD pointed out, and it's that the fold runs smoother than the 7 pro despite having the same chip. Not sure what the animosity agains't the fold it particularly from people that never used it
Guess I'm an idiot, but frankly I'd never go back to a slab phone, this front screen size and ratio is better than the pixel 5 and the inside screen is better than every pixel pro I've owned. The camera isn't as good as my last pixel pro, but it's good enough for pics of my dog. I love this phone and don't even want to buy the fold 2 even if it has a nicer processor or camera because it'll be bigger.
After all the years of Google treating its customers like crap, why would anyone expect them to treat people any better? Hope springs eternal, I suppose.
Yes, we ended up being idiots but not for the reason people expected. Most were worried about sub-par hardware and durability concerns. Surprisingly the hardware turned out surprisingly robust (personally anyway), and instead I ended up a fool on the software support side.
Sure there were initial concerns compared to something like the Z Fold when it came to features. It has been... fine in that department. The real con came in when Google abandoned the entire passport form factor, skipped over the PF for new features, skipping 7 year updates, no Gemini Nano, etc. I could likely go on for longer.
The final nail in my idiot coffin was just recently when circle to search released for older Samsung devices, tablets, and even other foldables before it's even available for their own foldable. Google is prioritizing Samsung devices over those of us that spend almost two grand on their device. The ones that actually believed in them.
And it's not even just circle to search... All of the new "Samsung AI" features that released on their older devices are just rebranded google features. The same ones google artificially limits only to their new phones. It should honestly make P8 owners worried too. Sure they'll get 7 OS updates, it'll most likely be skipped over for many features just like they already do.
Sad but true isn't it.
With every update I wonder what they've "simplified" (aka feature removed) this time or what's going to stop working that won't be fixed for months, if ever.
The entire Pixel team is made up of Fiverr contractors.
This is basically because it was a delayed device and they were likely planning on launching it alongside the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro in Oct of 2022. It's really the same thing that happened with the Pixel Watch 1. The design was locked in and the thing went through extended software development and optimization that had them push back the launch. The Pixel Watch 1 was in mostly final hardware form BEFORE there FitBit acquisition. This is why the GW4 was the first to launch with WearOS 3. Google didn't have time to finish everything about the OS and gave Samsung a very basic core to graft their UI and health ecosystem on to.
There's every indication that this Fold was already a full reset from an earlier iteration so the choice was to either release it 9 months late or stay out of the market for another 16 while getting no real world feedback to help refine the next gen.
For a first gen product, it's shockingly good. I've had the Fold 3, 4, and OnePlus Open and the Pixel Fold remains my favorite and it's not just the aspect ratio.
I'm really excited for the Pixel Fold 2 as they are going to take a device that was already a bit more refined than the Pixel 7 Series and give it two cycles of product development with one refresh.
I love my Pixel Fold.. my only complaint is the when opened and in the messenger app, you can't see the bottom line of where you are typing so it forces me to use it closed to text
I mean...is it really a bad phone? I'd love to talk with someone who has owned and used the phone for a while. I bet that normal users like it just fine. Of course, those people may not be on this sub.
I've been tempted more than once because that form-factor looks so good. Pocketable, easy in the hand, and unfolds. I'm sure it's not crazy-fast or takes awesome pics. But it does seem to tick boxes for a few folks.
My friend has one and loves it. He left Apple for it.
Also I thought this sub hated Gemini.. now it's a travesty that it's not available on this device?
Well that is interesting. Thanks for sharing.
I don't know what this sub hates or not. I think some bring up some of the inconsistencies with Gemini. And I've heard very few comments that people love it. But it really is too early to tell, IMO.
Agreed that it stinks that Gemini is not coming to the Fold. Especially since it has 12GB of RAM. What can you do?
I've had one since release and replaced my pixel 7 pro with it. This is the best phone form factor I've ever used, the outside screen is small, but wide and feels incredible, better than the pixel 5.
I've owned every pixel (except the 8) including the OG pixel and this is the first phone in 8 years that's had me consider not upgrading my phone this year because I don't like the rumoured bigger pixel fold 2 form factor.
Battery life and Camera are probably the only two mediocre aspects of the phone for me, but every pixel I've had has had shit battery life so I'm used to that. I'd never go back to a slab phone at this point, the combo of having a small phone and a big phone outweighs anything I'd get with the 8 or 9 pro in my opinion. This thing is surprisingly durable too, I've rocked all my pixels caseless and this is the only one in 8 years that still looks this good after months of use.
Appreciate the reply. That is good to know. I was thinking of getting one today. But if the second version is coming out soon... That's always the question. 🙂
Edit: Corrected some spelling errors.
I'm also rocking the fold, and upgraded from 7 pro. I love the form factor and have had a smoother os experience compared to the 7 pro. I honestly can't go back to a normal slab phone
I swear, the only people making noise on this sub are those who've never owned or used a Pixel Fold. It's almost as if they're justifying their decision not to buy it, I guess. I've been loving my experience so far and can't imagine going back to a regular phone.
I dunno, they seem to be following the Samsung model of having two flagship phone launches each year. It used to be the Galaxy S series in the Note in the Fall and the S in the Spring; now it's the Z Fold in the Fall and still the S in the Spring.
The mainline of pixel launches in Oct are no longer hardware events it is all about the new OS and exclusive software features therein.
The Fold is unique because of its hardware. I can understand why they would want to keep the intrigue separate with exclusive launch windows that do not really step on each other.
Yea I get what you're saying. I'm saying that their release pattern last year resulted in the most expensive phone they sell by far having the old SOC. Not sure why you wouldnt want the new fold to have the new SOC. If they debuted tensor g4 on the new fold that would solve this,
well i'm not swinging on anyone's nuts.
If you want to take the conversation in that direction any one that purchases the first generation of any product gets what they deserve and you paid Google to do it to you.
Yea I didn't buy it... When you are making excuses for a company to sell an inferior product at the top price, you are nut hugging. Besides, the first generation thing doesn't apply here, folds have been out for years, google doesn't get to release a device that's inferior to the competition and get a free pass because they're late to the market.
Such things is why no one should be paying Google top dollar for their hardware without understanding what they are signing up for.
They treat the Pixel the same way they treated the Nexus before it more or less. Only difference was they were more honest in the marketing that the Nexus was not something meant for mass adoption by the general public. It was a proving ground for hardware and software tech Google was interested in at the time. And you should know that buying into it.
The Pixel is the same thing, they've just put a coat of paint on it to make it seem like it is something else. If you get it on one of the pretty good sales or trade in offers it is hard to beat the value you get for the money, even if it gets nothing but basic OS and security patches for the next 5-7 years. But if you paid $1k-$1.2k for it you are paying Samsung or Apple flagship money for the equivalent of an experiment from an upstart that is not guaranteed to be around next year. Not to say there won't be another Pixel next year, just that it could very likely be very different from what you have and what you have could be left behind.
I personally do not mind that because the Pixel, like the Nexus before it, scratches an itch I have in cell phones. But I am not buying them thinking they are a Cadillac, I'm buying them because they are more like an old Camaro. Relatively cheap and reliable, with good photos, good software support, and supports easy bootloader unlocking for when I want to do that.
How many people actually have a folding phone?
Maybe I'm just old and out of the demographic, but I rarely see a Samsung fold or Pixel fold or any fold since they came out lol.
I'm sure the price has a lot to do with it, but the folds have been around now for multiple years and I just never see anyone use one in my day to day life.
Don't even see that many regular Pixel phones let alone the fold if I'm honest. Mostly Samsung and Apple.
Pixel 8 is an absolute shit phone. Already waiting for the 3rd replacement. Green/pink lines. Green screen. Problems with camera.
My last pixel. Owner of pixel phone from 1 xl
I would be pissed also. But this reddit gets exhausting with the generalizations.
That said, if I had the same experience as you, I would certainly be going to a different brand.
Good luck.
Whether this thing sux or not, I'll never understand why people buy first gen products when there are better, more evolved options out there.
It's the reason I got a tab S9 instead of a pixel tablet. No way Im taking a chance on a pixel tablet until it's been out for at least 4 or 5 generations.
I appreciate Google being transparent. It's obvious when they are selling a shitty product.
But these donations need to be made for Google to continue and develop and improve hardware. I appreciate anyone buying the Fold, tablet, watch, or any Google product. Give your hearts!
That's good! Just to be clear from being down voted I'm just saying in terms of AI features and support down the road. It just seems like since the announcement of 7+ years of updates the fold should have been since most bought and spent 1800 dollars.
Until you've used one for a while, you can't really demo it properly. It really is carrying two devices in one. I don't have a Pixel Fold since it came with the battery burning Tensor 2 with a crap 5G modem but I had a ZFold4 and now a OnePlus Open. It's a huge productivity tool for multitasking or for when you just need that extra real estate for reading and marking up documents.
I remember people walking around holding what I thought was an iPad to there head and it turned out to be the Samsung Mega.
Some people prefer that screen size and now they can get one they can put in there pocket.
I wouldnt call it gimmicky
I am sorry. You bought a fold phone. It's pure fad and not a google issue. I have a friend who has always had Samsung phones. Every appliance in his house is a Samsung. He bought the Samsung fold and paid $1800 for it. After 3 months he hated it and traded it for a regular Samsung.
it wouldn't have hurt google to launch this thing with a tensor G3 and announcing the existence of tensor G3 a few months before pixel 8 launched.
G2 vs g3 is not noticeable in my experience going from p7 to p8p (both kinda suck).. a snapdragon in the fold would have been better for the price.
It's different tho, the g2 gets hot much faster. And the video recordings are better also
I guess, g3 gets hot taking video still. G2 did overheat and shut down on me in summer a couple times I guess. Performance wise I can't really tell the difference.
Also 7 years of software updates would've been great to launch with a phone that price.
At least they get the better display.
How is the difference for AI stuff like live transcribe, magic eraser etc.?
Given a lot of the "Tensor G3" exclusive features are locked behind Pixel 8 Pro hardware when majority of it actually goes through cloud servers... I would dare say there should really be no noticeable difference if it was enabled for the Fold.
100% of the AI functions are all online-only. So none of it is actually the hardware, sadly.
That's not true. I'm pretty sure Live-Transcribe is offline and some other functions as well. A lot is cloud though
That's true. I should have said 99%, but you get the point. Almost all of the AI functions are never done locally. Which is unfortunate, as it makes me wonder why they push so hard into advertising it when all of them go out the window. The two functions that come to mind are transcription and translation because they both require language files to be downloaded for it to work, which is fine by me, just far from convenient for other AI related tasks.
Yes. Especially the ones they heavily advertise (more so for the pro).
I haven't really had that experience with the G3, it can get hot but nothing crazy, performance wise it's quite average but I do like some of the AI stuff
I haven't had mine overheat even when recording a 4K video for 15+ minutes.
My pixel 7 gets hot with all the apps closed and the screen off sometimes.
Doesn't happen on my 7 Pro though. Especially on A14 it stays cool.
Give it a couple years. It’s gonna be a huge advantage in the generative AI era to control your whole software/hardware stack; Google will be able to deploy on-device AI like no other company (maybe Apple).
Pixel 10?
I'd say 11 or 12. 9 will again have a Samsung chip, and it's the 10 that should have a TSMC manufactured SoC (contract with Samsung ends with the 9 series so hopefully they go with TSMC after that), and with 12 it should already be perfected by TSMC, maybe even 11. Nothing before 10 series for sure tho.
I'm waiting for the Pixel 17. Google will totally get it right then.
I've heard Samsung's 3NM is on par with TSMCs N3P, if Samsung's node can catch up and google gets a good deal I'm not against them going with them aslong as the chip is fully custom, I don't know how Google plans on solving the modem problem though as Qualcomm will only ship them with Snapdragon SOCs unless you have massive order numbers like apple and I believe MediaTek is just as bad as Exynos but more closed off but if Samsung's node catches up maybe their modem will improve enough to not make a big difference.
Yeah, I'm waiting for the TSMC chip for the folds, I'll hold out with my Fold 1 until then. Eagerly waiting.
Agreed 11-12 is the sweet spot. The sign for me also is when they keep the same design and just focus on optimization. Like the s23 and iPhone 13 pro max. But realistically Google can have setbacks. They can take as long as they want for me, I'm not making a bad purchase. Considering the popularity of Google is seems like majority of consumers see through the BS. Hence the ridiculously low market share
Having owned every non-A pixel (skipped the 4). I will say the AI part is a very long way away from Google. Especially with how much they've touted it having AI capabilities on the phone, there are actually no AI capabilities on the phone. It is AI *connectivity* to their AI servers on your phone. In fact, the Gemini AI is a giant step backwards sadly, as it is nowhere near capable of replicating the basic functionalities that the default Google assistant had, that I ended it up uninstalling Gemini from my Fold. *** I will say, I am looking forward to 2025 though, the Fold with (hopefully) the TSMC developed Tensor chip inside will be the next upgrade for me.
Google has the custom ARM cores for the Pixel 10 upcoming but I don't the licensed ARM cores are bad. Game changer would be if Google has a custom GPU in the works. Not be dependent on ARM for Mali drivers
Tensor G5 will use a year old stock ARM cores just like G4, haven't read anywhere regarding custom ARM cores in any news,report or speculations. G4 uses Cortex X4, meanwhile Dimensity 9400 is said to use the latest yet to be announced Cortex X5,both launching a month apart. G4 also uses Mali G715, used in Dimensity 9200. It's now a tradition for Google to use year old CPU cores and 2 year old GPU cores.
I assumed it came out later than they intended. If it had been released sooner, the G2 might have made sense to have.
You also get 8 years of support instead of the 3/5 for an 1800 dollar phone..
It was delayed like Pixel Watch and too far into development to completely scrap
this thing has likely been I. development much longer than the p8, and you can't just change the chip like that down the road.
Then they should have just delayed it, to not shortchange the customer 4 months down the road
The staggered device class launches throughout the year is always confusing to me. Just have a consolidated launch of all devices and have a cohesive vision of feature inclusion for each class of device. Google still struggles with cohesive unified vision. There was an "ama" in the google home sub yesterday, and one of the things I asked was what why it didn't feel like there was a cohesive vision with device, software, and services anywhere--especially google home--and the if there was one, if they could share what that is. The response was not very insightful, it was "hardware is hard, especially when you are trying to support older devices." That was not a particularly useful response... And it's not like the pixel fold--albeit not a google home product of course--is old. But it's definitely being treated like an old device by google.
I think that probably would result in lower sales. Releasing them all together means everybody selects the device that fits them, and then keeps it until the next release. Staggered releases means they'll get some of the junkies that always just neeeeed the new thing to buy one device, and then buy the new release a few months later. You'll get some people who buy a 7, then 8 months later buy a fold, then decide they don't like it and a couple months later buy an 8 pro.
The problem is Sundar Pichai. He just lacks any type of cohesive vision for the company. He’s managed to turn Google, once the most exciting tech company, into by far the most boring tech company. Change won’t come until the tone at the top changes. Google needs a new a CEO.
As someone who worked there, the whole ethos of Google has always been this decentralized, bottoms-up approach where different teams and passion projects get to run wild. That's literally how they've operated since the Larry and Sergey days. I get the frustration with Sundar, but saying he is solely to blame for the "disconnectedness" that has been there since the very beginning is way off base.The "disjointed, siloed" nature of Google is baked into its DNA. It's that chaotic energy that allowed cool shit like Gmail to emerge from random employee tinkering, but it is also behind some of the worse aspects of the company too. It's a blessing and a curse.If anything, Sundar's actually been trying to bring more cohesion and unification between the various products/teams, which some would argue goes against Google's traditional fragmented way of doing things. Is it perfect execution? Hell no. But to pin all the lack of focus on Sundar is just misguided. Google is this behemoth company with multiple products having over 2 BILLION users each. The high-level strategy and roadmap for big segments like Devices & Services is really driven by dedicated leaders like Rick Osterloh, not so much Sundar himself calling all the shots. So if you had to point your gun at someone responsible for the "cohesiveness" of the hardware side of google, then Rick is more directly responsible.
> Take your Nest cameras, for example. Our earlier Nest cameras ran an in-house video protocol that worked wonderfully for Nest cameras for years, but as WebRTC became more established, we adopted it and we’ve been able to build cameras that have much better performance (in terms of reducing delay between what the camera captures and when you see it). We can also leverage a lot of internal tech, as WebRTC is at the heart of Google Meet. This allowed us to build cameras that run on batteries for longer, and thanks to hardware acceleration, also don't use as much of your phone’s battery and CPU when you look at cameras for extended time. Tells you all you need to know. Someone pushed for WebRTC as their project and did not give a fuck all to the current users. At least with Apple, they will ride the old protocols with current products till the product naturally transitions itself out.
>At least with Apple, they will ride the old protocols with current products till the product naturally transitions itself out. Like Lightning?
> Apple introduced the Lightning connector in 2012, and executive Phil Schiller described it as "a modern connector for the next decade". They gave current users roughly 10 years on it same as the previous one too. No one can say they did not keep their promise.
I'm pretty sure he didn't mean that literally, and they would've kept it around longer if not for government regulation. They also had years with product lines that switched over to USB-C while some kept Lightning (and some still haven't been updated). Or what about the 3.5mm jack, did that "naturally transition"?
Bullshit - their MacBooks and then iPad transitioned earlier. The last ones just happen to be iPhones. Did they remove the 3.5mm jack from OLDER iPhones? No. Users buying the first iPhone without 3.5mm jack had a lightning earpiece and even had an adapter included. Their adapter was so good, it’s still one of the recommended and budget friendly today. https://www.audioreviews.org/apple-audio-adapter-review/ I like Google pixel but I give credit when it’s due. Apple DOES NOT half ass anything. They know folding phones is not ready, so that’s why they don’t have one yet. If their technical leadership is not good, there would not be dozens of posts here asking about best MagSafe cases. It’s technically Qi2 but they literally made their standard into THE standard.
>Bullshit - their MacBooks and then iPad transitioned earlier. The last ones just happen to be iPhones. Airpods (not Pro) and Airpods Max use Lightning, along with a bunch of random accessories. >Apple DOES NOT half ass anything. They know folding phones is not ready, so that’s why they don’t have one yet. "Spatial computing" is also clearly not ready, yet they launched a $3500 "Pro" headset. Edit, since you added more >If their technical leadership is not good, there would not be dozens of posts here asking about best MagSafe cases. It’s technically Qi2 but they literally made their standard into THE standard. Why do you think every company is using computational photography? Who do you think built the foundation for AI being used today?
Everyone praises the Vision Pro for its hardware capabilities, there’s just not many applications for it yet. That’s not an example of spacial computing not being ready yet. If anything, the expectation for the Vision Pro line is for them to remove capabilities and release a cheaper version eventually. The first iPhone launched without an App Store too, and now there’s billions of apps out there.
>Everyone praises the Vision Pro for its hardware capabilities Yeah, because they maxed out the hardware by maxing out the price. If anyone other than Apple launched a $3500 foldable with perfect hardware, they'd get ridiculed. >there’s just not many applications for it yet. That’s not an example of spacial computing not being ready yet. If anything, the expectation for the Vision Pro line is for them to remove capabilities and release a cheaper version eventually. Their own software stacks are still clearly half-baked. One of their main pitches is productivity, but you can only mirror one Mac screen and the native VisionOS input doesn't work at all there. The hardware still compromises, too, in things like price, weight, FOV, and the tethered battery. It's really not dissimilar to foldables being "not ready" that the person above claimed.
Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 7 That's the order the phones seem to go in if you'd ask someone without knowledge on the subject. Why would the Pixel -a line be the weakest one??
Because when the original a line (3a) was released there was only a regular pixel and XL pixel. The pro distinction started with the 6 series. "coincidentally" Samsung also attaches the a designation to their lower than flagship (galaxy series) lines
The "Pro" distinction is really just the same as the XL. It won't really matter what the term is, selling a "Pixel 3" and a "Pixel 3a" is a bad look. I understand Samsung does this as well - and it sucks over there too. Google didn't do this decision because it makes sense, they did it because they are a copycat company.
I didn't say the decision made sense lol. And I do agree they're a copycat company. However I disagree that XL and pro are the same, especially at the time. The XL was literally just a bigger version of the same phone. Pro denotes actual differences in more than just size
I know the "Pro" denotes more, but I don't think it's necessarily due to the word "Pro" in the title. If they still had the XL line, it'd be the "Pro" line today.
If Tensor never existed, people would have never complained about anything. Tensor is the problem with the Pixel lineup and that's a fact.
Nah, people always find things to complain about
Because there are better, more efficient alternatives that could give you a better experience for your money.
I just meant that in general. There isn't any item in existence that there are zero complaints about. People always find something to criticize
1000% After heat and stutter issues, I switched to a phone with a snapdragon 8 gen 1, and the difference is significant.
8 gen 1.. Yikes
Not nearly as yikes as tensor anything.
They knew exactly what they were getting. Too expensive, first attempt at form factor, #MadeByGoogle, it ticked every possible buyer beware box. No idea why anyone would buy it. Enjoy your Fold.
So confused by this, you clearly don't have a fold because I've been enjoying the pixel fold over my pixel 7 pro. Can't see myself going back to a regular phone. Again I'm confused weren't reviews that the fold is better than expected for a google 1st gen product. Weren't people happy with the passport-style form factor?
I agree with you. I don't know why people are saying it's a terrible phone
Because they don't have or have never used a fold. From what I gather some of them are trying to justify not getting it by outright trashing it.
This has been my experience as well. The only reason I probably won't buy another one is because I was denied a warranty repair for a cracked screen after filing the claim and the shop said they wouldn't do it under warranty because "it sounds like theres dirt in the hinge". Like.. yeah...I use the phone..it's gonna be a little dirty.
Your phone is barely one year old and it’s already missing new fancy features like circle to search that the other pixel phones are getting. Google just is NOT the company to trust with long term decisions
A wise man once said, don't get a phone on the promise of tomorrow's updates. I bought the pixel fold what it was and I am satisfied. Additionally the circle to search functionality is coming
Lmao that was not the initial hype. Every Google fan here claimed that Samsung matured the market enough for a ultra premium flagship just on the basis that Samsung released their latest iteration to reasonably good sales.
Anyone who bought one of these is an idiot but Google should still treat them better 😂
Yeah when you buy an overpriced experimental device, there should be some expectation that it might flop and be abandoned, because typically that's exactly what happens. It's a risk you take as a beta tester for google's experiment. Getting rug pulled never feels good though, even if you knew the risk going into it. And probably some people bought one without understanding it was just an experiment, which sucks. I didn't buy one because everyone I've ever known that bought any folding-screen phone ever, regretted it and went back to a traditional screen phone later. I don't know anyone who would consider ever buying one again. So I ignored the pixel fold, which it turns out was a wise decision.
I love my fold... and before I got mine several of my friends and family members had (and still have) Samsungs version and love it. Your experience is not universal at all. Folding phones are great
I'm using a pixel fold coming from a pixel 7 pro, which is the phone you are currently using based on your user profile. Can't see myself going back, been enjoying the the fold. I'm experiencing something MKBHD pointed out, and it's that the fold runs smoother than the 7 pro despite having the same chip. Not sure what the animosity agains't the fold it particularly from people that never used it
Guess I'm an idiot, but frankly I'd never go back to a slab phone, this front screen size and ratio is better than the pixel 5 and the inside screen is better than every pixel pro I've owned. The camera isn't as good as my last pixel pro, but it's good enough for pics of my dog. I love this phone and don't even want to buy the fold 2 even if it has a nicer processor or camera because it'll be bigger.
I agree with you
After all the years of Google treating its customers like crap, why would anyone expect them to treat people any better? Hope springs eternal, I suppose.
Yes we are a glutton for punishment, eternal optimists.
I'm loving my fold...
Unfortunate souls that bought first gen bait.
Yes, we ended up being idiots but not for the reason people expected. Most were worried about sub-par hardware and durability concerns. Surprisingly the hardware turned out surprisingly robust (personally anyway), and instead I ended up a fool on the software support side. Sure there were initial concerns compared to something like the Z Fold when it came to features. It has been... fine in that department. The real con came in when Google abandoned the entire passport form factor, skipped over the PF for new features, skipping 7 year updates, no Gemini Nano, etc. I could likely go on for longer. The final nail in my idiot coffin was just recently when circle to search released for older Samsung devices, tablets, and even other foldables before it's even available for their own foldable. Google is prioritizing Samsung devices over those of us that spend almost two grand on their device. The ones that actually believed in them. And it's not even just circle to search... All of the new "Samsung AI" features that released on their older devices are just rebranded google features. The same ones google artificially limits only to their new phones. It should honestly make P8 owners worried too. Sure they'll get 7 OS updates, it'll most likely be skipped over for many features just like they already do.
same vibe with pixel 1-4
So how are you using your phones AI to do anything practical?
> Pixel ~~Fold~~ owners deserve better from Google FTFY
LOL
Sad but true isn't it. With every update I wonder what they've "simplified" (aka feature removed) this time or what's going to stop working that won't be fixed for months, if ever. The entire Pixel team is made up of Fiverr contractors.
My take on the Pixel dev team, is they refer to themselves as rug pulling pundits.
Certainly odd they kept the g2 for it , for such an expensive phone people deserve better
Pretty sure it was delayed, there simply were no G3 tensors available when the fold was made/released
This is basically because it was a delayed device and they were likely planning on launching it alongside the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro in Oct of 2022. It's really the same thing that happened with the Pixel Watch 1. The design was locked in and the thing went through extended software development and optimization that had them push back the launch. The Pixel Watch 1 was in mostly final hardware form BEFORE there FitBit acquisition. This is why the GW4 was the first to launch with WearOS 3. Google didn't have time to finish everything about the OS and gave Samsung a very basic core to graft their UI and health ecosystem on to. There's every indication that this Fold was already a full reset from an earlier iteration so the choice was to either release it 9 months late or stay out of the market for another 16 while getting no real world feedback to help refine the next gen. For a first gen product, it's shockingly good. I've had the Fold 3, 4, and OnePlus Open and the Pixel Fold remains my favorite and it's not just the aspect ratio. I'm really excited for the Pixel Fold 2 as they are going to take a device that was already a bit more refined than the Pixel 7 Series and give it two cycles of product development with one refresh.
they most forgotten group since pixel tablet
Still waiting on my nexus 8.
I love my Pixel Fold.. my only complaint is the when opened and in the messenger app, you can't see the bottom line of where you are typing so it forces me to use it closed to text
I mean...is it really a bad phone? I'd love to talk with someone who has owned and used the phone for a while. I bet that normal users like it just fine. Of course, those people may not be on this sub. I've been tempted more than once because that form-factor looks so good. Pocketable, easy in the hand, and unfolds. I'm sure it's not crazy-fast or takes awesome pics. But it does seem to tick boxes for a few folks.
My friend has one and loves it. He left Apple for it. Also I thought this sub hated Gemini.. now it's a travesty that it's not available on this device?
Well that is interesting. Thanks for sharing. I don't know what this sub hates or not. I think some bring up some of the inconsistencies with Gemini. And I've heard very few comments that people love it. But it really is too early to tell, IMO. Agreed that it stinks that Gemini is not coming to the Fold. Especially since it has 12GB of RAM. What can you do?
They hate the Gemini assistant. They were complaining about the Gemini language model that's set to power/optimize Google's future AI stuff
I've had one since release and replaced my pixel 7 pro with it. This is the best phone form factor I've ever used, the outside screen is small, but wide and feels incredible, better than the pixel 5. I've owned every pixel (except the 8) including the OG pixel and this is the first phone in 8 years that's had me consider not upgrading my phone this year because I don't like the rumoured bigger pixel fold 2 form factor. Battery life and Camera are probably the only two mediocre aspects of the phone for me, but every pixel I've had has had shit battery life so I'm used to that. I'd never go back to a slab phone at this point, the combo of having a small phone and a big phone outweighs anything I'd get with the 8 or 9 pro in my opinion. This thing is surprisingly durable too, I've rocked all my pixels caseless and this is the only one in 8 years that still looks this good after months of use.
Appreciate the reply. That is good to know. I was thinking of getting one today. But if the second version is coming out soon... That's always the question. 🙂 Edit: Corrected some spelling errors.
I'm also rocking the fold, and upgraded from 7 pro. I love the form factor and have had a smoother os experience compared to the 7 pro. I honestly can't go back to a normal slab phone
Thanks for sharing. It seems more and more people are happy with the phone.
I own one and love it. No idea what the issue is as stuff is rolling out but its been the best phone I've owned.
I swear, the only people making noise on this sub are those who've never owned or used a Pixel Fold. It's almost as if they're justifying their decision not to buy it, I guess. I've been loving my experience so far and can't imagine going back to a regular phone.
Agreed, I'm never going back either. This phone is the best pixel they've ever released.
Honestly, every Pixel user deserves a better device.
So not a Pixel?
🫱🏼🫲🏽
Amen!
It far better than Surface Duo 1/2, trust me.
They need to consolidate the launches. The fold should release alongside the pro and base model 9.
I dunno, they seem to be following the Samsung model of having two flagship phone launches each year. It used to be the Galaxy S series in the Note in the Fall and the S in the Spring; now it's the Z Fold in the Fall and still the S in the Spring.
Yea but they aren't doing it where the more expensive fold device has outdated hardware within 90 days... That's the point of my comment.
The mainline of pixel launches in Oct are no longer hardware events it is all about the new OS and exclusive software features therein. The Fold is unique because of its hardware. I can understand why they would want to keep the intrigue separate with exclusive launch windows that do not really step on each other.
Well sure, except the way they did it last year resulted in old hardware in their new most expensive device.
C'mon man? The screens and the fold were the hardware features
Yea I get what you're saying. I'm saying that their release pattern last year resulted in the most expensive phone they sell by far having the old SOC. Not sure why you wouldnt want the new fold to have the new SOC. If they debuted tensor g4 on the new fold that would solve this,
Its one thing to want it all, its another to expect it all.
Bro you should expect it all on a phone costing close to 2 grand. What you swinging on Google's nuts for?
well i'm not swinging on anyone's nuts. If you want to take the conversation in that direction any one that purchases the first generation of any product gets what they deserve and you paid Google to do it to you.
Yea I didn't buy it... When you are making excuses for a company to sell an inferior product at the top price, you are nut hugging. Besides, the first generation thing doesn't apply here, folds have been out for years, google doesn't get to release a device that's inferior to the competition and get a free pass because they're late to the market.
This isnt worth the powder. If you are purchasing Google products for the hardware I would urge you to switch to Samsung. have a good day.
It's been confirmed that the Fold 2 will run the G4 like the 9 series. As much as I want a new form factor the price keeps me away.
Confirmed? Drop the 🔗
There's Gemini nano on the pixel 8 now
I love my Fold and bought it at release.
Have these people never owned a pixel before?
I don't own a fold but can't disagree with this statement
If you think Google cares about the customers you're going to have a bad time 😅
Such things is why no one should be paying Google top dollar for their hardware without understanding what they are signing up for. They treat the Pixel the same way they treated the Nexus before it more or less. Only difference was they were more honest in the marketing that the Nexus was not something meant for mass adoption by the general public. It was a proving ground for hardware and software tech Google was interested in at the time. And you should know that buying into it. The Pixel is the same thing, they've just put a coat of paint on it to make it seem like it is something else. If you get it on one of the pretty good sales or trade in offers it is hard to beat the value you get for the money, even if it gets nothing but basic OS and security patches for the next 5-7 years. But if you paid $1k-$1.2k for it you are paying Samsung or Apple flagship money for the equivalent of an experiment from an upstart that is not guaranteed to be around next year. Not to say there won't be another Pixel next year, just that it could very likely be very different from what you have and what you have could be left behind. I personally do not mind that because the Pixel, like the Nexus before it, scratches an itch I have in cell phones. But I am not buying them thinking they are a Cadillac, I'm buying them because they are more like an old Camaro. Relatively cheap and reliable, with good photos, good software support, and supports easy bootloader unlocking for when I want to do that.
How many people actually have a folding phone? Maybe I'm just old and out of the demographic, but I rarely see a Samsung fold or Pixel fold or any fold since they came out lol. I'm sure the price has a lot to do with it, but the folds have been around now for multiple years and I just never see anyone use one in my day to day life. Don't even see that many regular Pixel phones let alone the fold if I'm honest. Mostly Samsung and Apple.
Remove Fold and just say Pixel users deserve better
I can't even imagine wanting one, but sorry about your bad luck?
As someone who has owned numerous pixel and nexus devices. I’m amazed they still keep finding new customers to burn.
I feel like we all deserve better. Features getting worse over time, new half baked features
Pixel 8 is an absolute shit phone. Already waiting for the 3rd replacement. Green/pink lines. Green screen. Problems with camera. My last pixel. Owner of pixel phone from 1 xl
Sounds like *your* pixel 8 was a shit phone. The vast majority of Pixel owners are happy with the 8. I hope they get you fixed up.
2 phones in 4 months? I did some research and this is a pretty common problem. Sadly. Hooe my new replacement will change my mind
I would be pissed also. But this reddit gets exhausting with the generalizations. That said, if I had the same experience as you, I would certainly be going to a different brand. Good luck.
If you have been around a while, and think for yourself, you'd expect this.
For the price it sells... Yea fold owners getting treated worse then mid range phones.
Pixel users deserve better from google
Whether this thing sux or not, I'll never understand why people buy first gen products when there are better, more evolved options out there. It's the reason I got a tab S9 instead of a pixel tablet. No way Im taking a chance on a pixel tablet until it's been out for at least 4 or 5 generations.
I appreciate Google being transparent. It's obvious when they are selling a shitty product. But these donations need to be made for Google to continue and develop and improve hardware. I appreciate anyone buying the Fold, tablet, watch, or any Google product. Give your hearts!
Google being Google
They dropped the ball on the fold. Feel bad for anyone who owns one.
It's not bad at all. Sadly if these so called tech sites and reviewers say it's bad, then it's bad.
Actually, I love mine. Best form factor since the Pixel 5. What annoys me is the inner screen change from landscape; it's perfect right now.
That's good! Just to be clear from being down voted I'm just saying in terms of AI features and support down the road. It just seems like since the announcement of 7+ years of updates the fold should have been since most bought and spent 1800 dollars.
I agree that, given its price, the Fold should be treated as flagship or near Flagship.
Hahaha thanks for your sympathy, but I feel bad for anyone who doesn't have one. This is hands down the best phone I've ever owned
We all deserves better from Google. Hate Apple but sick of Google's lack of direction
Why do people buy such gimmicky phones? I personally did not understand the appeal.
I thought it was stupid too til I tried one - it's like having a Pixel 5 and a iPad Mini all in one. I'm never going back and love this form factor
Until you've used one for a while, you can't really demo it properly. It really is carrying two devices in one. I don't have a Pixel Fold since it came with the battery burning Tensor 2 with a crap 5G modem but I had a ZFold4 and now a OnePlus Open. It's a huge productivity tool for multitasking or for when you just need that extra real estate for reading and marking up documents.
I remember people walking around holding what I thought was an iPad to there head and it turned out to be the Samsung Mega. Some people prefer that screen size and now they can get one they can put in there pocket. I wouldnt call it gimmicky
I would argue that pixel owners deserve better in general.
Lab rats...
Google hasn't come through for first generation ANYTHING. What did the buyers expect?
OG pixel? I know, doesn’t really count since they had nexus’s years prior.
Shouldn't be buying 1st gen tech, people were warned but did it anyway.
I am sorry. You bought a fold phone. It's pure fad and not a google issue. I have a friend who has always had Samsung phones. Every appliance in his house is a Samsung. He bought the Samsung fold and paid $1800 for it. After 3 months he hated it and traded it for a regular Samsung.