@@JB-gz5ygcited to see the breakdown Mr. JB. I really like the Z Fold 4 due to the Samsung software features and it's much easier to operate with one hand on the front screen. It took me months to adjust to using a small screen compared to a traditional Samsung phablet size screen but I don't think I would ever want to go back to using an ultra wide screen when there's a 2 in 1 option like the Z Fold. But hopefully the competition from Pixel will make the Z Fold line drop their price or improve their software/hardware faster.
Michael brings out the best foldable coverage of any reviewers out there (and just one of the best reviewers ever), his reviews are not just simple analyses, he shows what it's like to live with the devices, and his delivery is top notch :D
He did kinda Invent this Format, and has changed the Space permanently... From better framing to the voice... Extend and Proper daily driver reviews with "After the Buzz" continued updates even years later. Thanks Captain2Phones!
Michael, you truly are my trusted opinion for all things foldable. No disrespect to other great reviewers, but there is comfort in knowing that these reviews come from someone who really lives their lives with foldables. Once again, fantastic review 👍🏻
As long as google stays committed to the fold concept then apps will come along eventually. I look forward to where the hardware and software will be in another few years.3+ apps at once is nice on my Galaxy fold 4 but the cover screen is just too narrow for other than a quick notification triage. The pixel form factor is definitely more appealing
I think the OnePlus fold coming soon would be the exact device you are looking for , full screen front display landscape design & Volcc charging at 85w-100w a full days bettery in 20 mins compared to our zfols 4 hour long charging it's a W for OnePlus this year can't wait!
@@imarchit yes it's supposed to have a new redesign but the OnePlus fold Volcc charging makes it all worth the switch I just love Samsung eco system but you can get most off all those features on other Android devices now these days
As a Z Fold 4 user I'm really glad to see Pixel Fold cause I cant wait for future of these devices and we NEED more contenders in this space. BTW my Fold has 2 dead spots in the middle of the screen 6 months after purchase so I'm sending it on warrant to Samsung next week - its still definately not for everyone 😅
I've had the Pixel Fold for a little while now. I had the Z Fold 4 before that (technically still do) so can definitely compare the two. I was a long term iPhone user before that. I've been really surprised by my time with the Pixel. I went into my time with the Pixel thinking I knew what was coming. My short summary is that it's more than the sum of its parts. Also, there are psychological aspects that are hard to reason prior to use. The Pixel's choice to make the outer screen a primary screen and not a cover screen is important. It has a greater impact than I expected. Unfolding into landscape also has a bigger impact than I expected. I dismissed it as you can simply rotate the device. Obviously you can... but you don't... certainly not as often as I thought I would. There is something about using the Pixel that makes it my favourite phone. It's not something you get by looking at the specs on paper. The Z Fold, be that 5 or 4, is the better phone on paper. It is the better phone, in the same way that the iPhone is the better phone than all of these. I'll take the Pixel Fold every time, warts and all.
I have had mine about 3 weeks now and went into the store fully intending to buy a Pixel 8 or Pixel 8Pro. I had seen my friend with his Z4 plenty of times at work and the phone just seemed gimmicky to me, the outer screen is practically unusable to me as the keyboard is so cramped, and they chose to make it the same height as a normal flagship which is the part of "large" phones people hate the most. All of this is to say, there was about a 20 minute window before the rep was able to get to me so while I waited my turn to be seen I started messing around with the different Pixel phones they had on display, including the Fold. The SECOND I picked it up and held it in my hands, I was sold. The form factor for this phone is absolutely 100% perfect. When it is closed the screen on the front has the width of a standard flagship, but is shorter! My biggest gripe with big phones, again, is that they are so tall you can't practically use them one handed if you need to access something at the top of the screen. This fixes that. It is also a bit thicker than your standard slab phone, which is NOT a downside to me. I can hold the phone with so much more confidence since there is so much more to grip. I went in with the intention of buying the next flagship Pixel and came out with a fold. My buddy who daily drives the Z4 saw me using it and had so many questions about the device, so I let him use it for a few minutes just to see how it felt and what he thought he would be missing out on if he switched. He was pretty much sold right then and there, again, because of the form factor and the usability of that outer screen. He is pretty much committed at this point, his next phone will almost assuredly be a Pixel Fold 2 or 3 (depending on what is available when it comes time to upgrade.) I can not stress enough, this phone as you said is not the sum of its parts. It is an amazing user experience despite not having the raw numbers on paper that other phones offer, and I PRAY that all other folding phones are taking note of it's design.
This is the aspect ratio I’ve always wanted! I’ll never be able to afford this one but I hope this wider form factor survives the slow transition to mid-range phones. I loved it on old iPads. I loved it on my blackberry passport. I’ve stuck with iPhone SE instead of any of the taller/thinner screened devices. Fingers crossed companies keep making these extremely readable and usable devices
12:26 An immediate rush of nostalgia from the background music and your voice! I’ll go back and watch your review of the Pebble Time just to bring me back to the good old days! Fantastic review!
Amazing review. I absolutely adore mine. Perfection? No. Hardly. But the positive changes this brings to the foldable experience over the Z Fold 3 I've neen working with over the past couple of years greatly overshadows the flaws. I use this, much as you said, like a normal phone most of the time, but it's still as glorious as ever to be able to open that middle screen when you need a tablet-sized view. And I LOVE the horizontal aspect ratio by default!
This is why I'm trading in my Fold 4 for one. I need that wider screen as I text mainly from the front. Just that alone is worth the change, but I welcome the better cam and pure Android. Glad you like yours.
Excellent review sir! If the Z Fold5 is as same as the leaks suggest, think I'll sit out this product cycle and hold onto my Z Fold4. It's been great at multitasking and surprisingly durable, so don't think that keeping it for another year will be a problem. That said, having a wide front screen will be a key reason I upgrade when the time comes. I admit, I do miss a lot of the Goole-y features that come with a Pixel. So, most likely, there will be a Pixel Fold 2 in my future. Thanks again for the excellent review Mr. Fisher!
See, that's honestly one thing that would make me get a Pixel over the Galaxy folds, I want that wider screen, enough that I'd pay more for less even. It's just too good an idea
I can't believe i missed this but...i just saw the nod to the movie contact in this review. "Why have one when you can have two for twice the price?" Is such a good line. I love that film.
I've been waiting for this review, I got my Pixel Fold on Wednesday and I absolutely love it! I had some buyers remorse before having it in-hand but it quickly faded after feeling the form factor and when I ended the first full day at 46% battery
@tloHnadroJ sold mine 2 days after it arrived to some enthusiast willing to pay a premium for it. Really wanted to love the phone, but should have known better buying a first Gen foldable, from Google no less. The price is entirely unjustified.
Seems like it is next step in developing an successful foldable, shedding off a few of the flaws that other models had and were criticized for. Sorry to hear about the quite problematic speaker position during phonecalls and the not impressive battery live. Surely seems more capable of being daily device than the early Samsung Galaxies. Surprising to hear there is something like a "too reflective screen" after years of the completely dull screen surfaces since the advent of LCDs at all. 11:30 - burrata my love ?
Looking to upgrade from the galaxy fold 2 this summer, this is a tough one. My main issue with foldable has always been the cover screen, and the pixel certainly remedies this. Though it's a hard sell with that chipset.
For Samsung camera you can choose from the settings if it keeps the previous mode or back to the default. "Settings to keep" and there just click those off you don't want to keep.
So hyped! I hope the next edition will get stylus support! If so, then it will definitely be my first foldable. Now I'm using a Pixel 7 Pro and iPad Air, a good foldable will be able to replace both! Great review!
I find it interesting that Google was able to achieve water resistance on their first gen foldable as opposed to Samsung which took 3 generations to get water resistance. Interesting to see if Google adds stylus support to their foldables.
That water proofing thing is a nice trick. The bezels aren’t bad, coming from a surface duo. I really do find width better on phones than more excess height.
Don't think you mentioned it, but wish you did...and which is a huge deal to me, is the fact that you can't have different layouts between the outer and inner screens. That's a big fail.
His reviews are absolutely captivating! I'm always impressed by how he skillfully guides you on an immersive journey with the smartphone. It's far from a typical youtube tech review video; he adds a touch of authenticity that makes it truly exceptional
After watching this back-to-back with the fold 5 hands-on (and a two month hellride getting my fold 3 repaired) i think I'm actually gonna switch this year. I noticed that the aspect ratio on the fold 3's outer screen is bothering me more over time rather than the opposite, and the fold 5 is relatively underwhelming other than the SoC upgrade. Thanks for covering foldables so extensively man!
I got it yesterday in the mail. It's really an incredible device. Does it have room for improvement? Of course, and so does every 1st gen device. But I love it. I do think $1800 is steep but hopefully in the next 5 years we can expect foldables to be sub $1000
I think a lot of people underestimate the advantage of having a narrow cover screen on the Z Fold series - one handed usage. I'm glad Samsung is sticking to this design for the ZF5. When I'm on the go I want something I can pull out of my pocket and use one handed. If I want a bigger screen and use my phone with both hands I'll open it up. That's the purpose of having a foldable device. Don't give me something that's going to make me use the outer display more -that's not the reason I bought it.
I totally agree. I'm using a S21 ultra and I have smallish hands and it's a challenge to reach parts of the screen. Was thinking ZF4 but durability seems terrible.. maybe ZF5..
You have always been optimistic about foldables, that makes me wanna have a foldable one day. Other RUclipsrs, no matter what they say in conclusion make me feel that foldables are just fad and won't last more than a few years. I'm grateful for your videos.
It looks great for a first gen foldable. I'm generally not a big fan of the Pixel design (both hardware and UI) but it's great to see real competition in the space in the US. I LOVE the book style foldable and think it'd be better than Samsung's taller format. I love my Fold4, but I've also had some hinge reliability issues. I'm hoping Samsung and Google's next gen devices get more durable, dust resistance, etc. And while things look pretty good for the first generation, I still think Samsung has Google beat in terms of multitasking software on the foldables. S-pen support, 3+ apps running at once, easier ways to switch between things, different home screens for when the device is open vs closed. Those are things I can't easily give up.
We agree on Samsung's lead in multitasking software. As Dan Seifert was saying on the latest Vergecast: the Fold 4 is like a PC in your pocket. Pixel Fold's value proposition is quite different.
@@TheMrMobile Yeah for sure. I just want that PC in your pocket in a book form factor, a better camera, a longer lasting battery, and dust resistance. That'd be perfect.
I've had a Pixel Fold for 6 weeks from a Z Fold 4 and agree, it's amazing. But it's too heavy and the inner screen not bright enough. And the tensor chip gets hot & is slow when searching notes. As you say the non optimised apps (IG & Twitter) are annoying, but the optimised apps are amazing. As is the camera. And the Pixel experience. I have ordered the Z Fold 5 (upgrade) because of the lighter weight, faster approval, but worse outer screen.
Although this product seems very flawed, this product does open up the possibility that Google will finally make Android work better on tablets and foldables, so I just hope they continue on the line and make more of these...
Didn't they also made a tablet before? What happened to the hope of optimized apps? Google has a habit of starting something and leaving it cold turkey.
Typing this from my new fold. I'm slightly worried about durability but it's not flawed for me. Actually the most premium feeling tech product I've owned and I have a lot. The form factor is amazing. It really turns heads.
@@tennman The point is that Samsung and Google's partnership. Samsung is not leaving behind these form factors and Google wants Samsung to succeed and get more Android Devices out there. That's why Google spent the effort with the software on Android for large screen form factor with the assurance Samsung will stick with this product line.
Samsung is pushing the tablet ui forward more than Google. it's app developers that aren't doing the work because there just aren't a lot of people using android tablets to motivate them to do so. that said, for most of the apps regular people use... this shouldn't be a problem.
The review i was waiting for!! Great review as always! Thank you for showing the grip case too, looks great, Hopefully they start shipping them out soon
It was genuinely surprised to hear someone say Google support was terrible. I've had a tough time with Microsoft, sony, LG, and Samsung over the years, but anytime I ran into a problem with a pixel, Google was easy to get a hold of and sent me a new phone without question.
Yes, I have had two experiences in the last year or so. Both went well and I was kept up to date all the way. One was dead pixels on the display (new phone) and the other was a smashed display (replaced). Despite shipping 1000+ miles away they only took a week or so to be sorted!
Got my Pixel Fold a few days ago. Absolutely love it! Haven't experienced any app crashes like you though. As far as this phone not met to be sold to many people, i can see how one could come to that conclusion. I do feel like a lot of people still bought it though and there's definitely a lot of interest about it floating around the web. As someone with hands on experience with the Pixel Fold for several days now, your review was pretty spot on. Keep up the fantastic content.
How really noticeable is the crease when using the phone? And, how really reflective is the inside screen? I would appreciate any insight about it. Thank you.
Tensor G2 is the biggest deal breaker for me coupled with the overheating issues. It's not the price that's the problem whether it's $1,800 for this or $2,500+ for the Huawei Mate X3. It's what you DON'T get for the price you pay that's the problem. Tensor G3 should've been in the Pixel Fold.
No kidding, $1800 for a chip that is a couple years behind in performance. Plus, I had to give up on my Pixel 7 due to Tensor G2 issues. Overheating during basic tasks and especially during camera use, poor signal reception in areas the Qualcomm equivalent would be fine, not roaming properly and dropping calls, and finally the unpredictable battery life. Questionable decision to drop it into the Fold, but maybe they saw it as a gamble anyways so they thought it was fine. Hoping the Tensor G3 knocks it out of the park, otherwise this trio of Tensor chips is going to have a poor legacy.
To all techies out there. Please note that the tensor chip is not targeted at gamers or hardcore power users. This is obvious and complaining about something that every techie knows is not aimed at them seems superfluous. If you want more power buy something with a more powerful chip. The Pixel range is more about ML and AI. This is explained in every review. I cannot understand why we still get complaints.
@@andyH_EnglandSure... But why should people have to compromise at this price? Other folding phones at similar or lower price have considerably better processors.
@@peteT269 people do not need to compromise as they always have the choice of not buying. Google decided that $1800 was the lowest they would go and the alternative, no doubt, was to not bother. So at least we get to see a Pixel fold and if it's too expensive for you, just move on to another device. Not every device is made for you, or for me, so you have the choice.
Fantastic video worth the wait. The Pixel Fold excites me because of the potential it gives the future of foldables. Will it be enough to pull me from the comfort of iOS and iPadOS? Probably not this Gen, but I hope next generation it will be. I’m a sucker for that design though.
Almost $2,000 for this device and no charger, no case, no headphones, no headphone jack, no expandable storage, and no pen support? Really? I don't think so
There is something about a Michael Fisher video. It takes its time, it's thorough, he is easy to listen to and most of all it is honest. They keep getting better. Well done sir.
Outstanding.I bought my Z Flip 3 because of your review, and now because of this review..... . . . I'll probably still be buying the Motorola Flip next, based on what you've said here / unless the Samsung Flip 5 really astounds us. Still, lovely review and I'm glad google is in this game. Now if only they stay in this game...and stop playing with Xixi the Panda bear and start respecting their customer's privacy....Jk, they're google.
I love how honest and unbiased these reviews always are. Willing to talk strongly about the cons but still say it will probably end up in your pocket despite those flaws. Keep it up, favorite tech reviewer right here
It's ironic that the biggest weak spot is the chipset and modem which are all made by Samsung. Samsung's improvements on that front are only because they ditched their own fabbed chips for Qualcomm. It's interesting that pixel switched to Qualcomm for the second generation watch according to rumors. If they switch to Qualcomm or dimensity or something for the 4th generation pixel I could see improvements. The problem at this point though is if it's Qualcomm, then there goes yet another option at a possible competitor in the silicon space with Samsung continuing to struggle. What it's worth I have a phone with the first generation tensor. I've never had a single heat warning, my battery life has been very good ... But I think a big part of that help is that I rely so much on Wi-Fi since the biggest problem is the exynos modem.
Michael, you've been my go-to for phone reviews since the time you reviewed for Pocketnow. Even when I'm not actively researching a phone to purchase I watch your videos to keep up to date with the latest trends in the mobile world. If for any reason you were looking to take on additional challenges (not that you would need to with all that you do!) , I think you would make a fantastic audio book narrator. I would love to hear you read something similar to The Expanse where technology is a central theme.
Finally, pixel fold review from my favorite reviewer. Someone who truly reviews phone as it should be done. Thank you for your service Mr Michael. Appreciate the information that you have provided. Your review on z fold 4 is the one who sealed me in on the foldable and no regret since then.
My biggest hope with the Pixel Fold is that it will legitimize the category enough in the states for other brands to take the plunge, including Apple. I'm sure a first gen iFold or whatever infinitely better name i hope they give it will be an absolute disaster of first gen issues and first gen prices just like the iPhone X, but one can hope to be wrong on that front.
LoL. What disaster are you talking about? iPhone X was the best selling smartphone worldwide, so have been every other iphone since then, iPad, watch, airpods, M series Macs, everything has been a best seller and without any issues.
@@jakoick1298 I'm talking about the software bugs that came with early FaceID, the notch, and the removal of the home button. I'm talking about the insane price jump over the identically spec'd iPhones 8. I'm talking about availability issues well into iPhone 11. These devices weren't perfect
It's honestly a good day whenever Michael drops a new video. I just keep coming back for the excellent storytelling for every phone he reviews instead of just random scripts of phone specs from other reviewers which is just bland in my opinion.
to me it seems like the outside screen should've been a tad more narrow, as I think, the fold's "remote control" design lends itself to better one-handed use.
nah that design is so bad the narrow screen is unusable. folding phones should be a regular pone that give you a tablet experience inside not a cover screen for its main display
@@akarshJD Compare the overall thickness of pixel fold and samsung z fold. Pixel is much thinner but it still needs place for cameras, thus the camera bump is bulkier.
This guy's folding phone obsession is borderline alarming. Folds will never be as popular as he wants, because the average person wouldn't pay the price, or deal with the quirks... You like them, we get it... Most people don't... Let it go.
I've noticed stuttering when going home from dual apps (switched immediately to Niagara, not sure if related), and the main camera won't boot and can't start the flashlight. Google support for that was good, said they're working on a software fix. I'm not much of a photographer so I'll live for a bit. I love the form factor (first day with the Galaxy Fold I said "I wish it folded the other way"), and the whole experience has been good for me so far. It feels how I want and does what I want. I'm fine with some rough edges in a first gen. Great review as always! Well worth waiting a few days for!
I have waited all year for this video. Mr mobile's take on the pixel fold. I'm already sold but I needed him to do the review before I pull the trigger. Great video as always
I currently got the pixel 7 pro. comparing specs wise to the fold they are almost identical with the exception of a few things like camera and battery life. right now, I wouldn't upgrade to the 1st Gen fold. however, when the next Gen fold does come out with improvements based off feedback from the 1st one, then I'll probably consider going for the foldable. I absolutely love the design though and it has tempted me to want it
An excellent review. I normally skip through videos of this nature but your commentary, clarity of voice and comparison to Samsung had me watching all the way through.
Little Easter Egg at 2:08 where Mr. Mobile is reading a research paper labeled "Failure analysis of thick composite cylinders under external pressure" just a few days after the loss of the Ocean Gate submarine which used a composite cylinder as the hull of the submarine.
I'm typing rhis out on a pixel fold right now. I love the build quality. But the display has some weird color shifting as you tilt it. Some apps, are buggy, and yes, the lack of optimization for the inner display. Another thing tgat bothers me is the speakers arent as loud. I mainly use iphone, so coming from that theres a big difference in quality. I want to keep it. Android 14 is supposed to make it easier for developers to create optimized apps, and I'd like to think google would continue to update with new features to better take advantage of the inner display.
I prefer the form factor of the Google phone vs the fold 5 but we shall see. I need to upgrade and I'm still not sure a folding phone is worth buying yet.
Your hair is fantastic as ever, sir! 😂 I'm glad to see your review of this device. I prefer the dimensions of this foldable to the dimensions of the Galaxy Fold or the Flip. I just had a call come in, so unfortunately, I'll have to wait to finish the review. I'm excited to finish it, though.
![MrMobile [Michael Fisher]](http://yt3.ggpht.com/Bf8B_79jyHxP6CVnjV5WKws93l9Vxlk0d7aPmcBygTBDKzgsGrpazdJRFUrfg1sUNlo8YX8rji8=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj)
Great vid - Looking forward to getting my hands on one.
Lol
@@JB-gz5ygcited to see the breakdown Mr. JB. I really like the Z Fold 4 due to the Samsung software features and it's much easier to operate with one hand on the front screen. It took me months to adjust to using a small screen compared to a traditional Samsung phablet size screen but I don't think I would ever want to go back to using an ultra wide screen when there's a 2 in 1 option like the Z Fold.
But hopefully the competition from Pixel will make the Z Fold line drop their price or improve their software/hardware faster.
Your new knives have been creeping in to my B-roll shots! Thanks again bud.
To smash, take it apar, & destroy...
So I see it can't handle anything lol
Michael brings out the best foldable coverage of any reviewers out there (and just one of the best reviewers ever), his reviews are not just simple analyses, he shows what it's like to live with the devices, and his delivery is top notch :D
Agree! A real content creator! Very creative unlike others just talk and talk inside their "office"
He did kinda Invent this Format, and has changed the Space permanently... From better framing to the voice... Extend and Proper daily driver reviews with "After the Buzz" continued updates even years later. Thanks Captain2Phones!
Also the Flawless Live Intro/Outros from the early Podcast days! 🤯
Hey, he's Mr Foldable after all 😂
@@victorutomo7244 Mr. Foldable/Mr. Mobile... But always Captain2Phones
Michael, you truly are my trusted opinion for all things foldable. No disrespect to other great reviewers, but there is comfort in knowing that these reviews come from someone who really lives their lives with foldables. Once again, fantastic review 👍🏻
Just grateful there are enough foldables to cover - and enough folks interested in hearing about them! Thanks very much.
+1 can't wait for Flip5 coverage!
Should Google make a flip version? I would love a Motorola RAZR + with Google Cameras and software
Hey! I know that guy at 4:23! 😂 Awesome video Michael. I'm enjoying the heck out of my Pixel Fold. I'm finally part of the foldable family!
As long as google stays committed to the fold concept then apps will come along eventually. I look forward to where the hardware and software will be in another few years.3+ apps at once is nice on my Galaxy fold 4 but the cover screen is just too narrow for other than a quick notification triage. The pixel form factor is definitely more appealing
I think the OnePlus fold coming soon would be the exact device you are looking for , full screen front display landscape design & Volcc charging at 85w-100w a full days bettery in 20 mins compared to our zfols 4 hour long charging it's a W for OnePlus this year can't wait!
@@JAYJAY1787 I am just glad we are seeing more competition worldwide now. If Galaxy Fold 6 isn't a major change, Samsung will have a tough time.
> As long as google stays committed
Spoiler alert: They won't
@@imarchit yes it's supposed to have a new redesign but the OnePlus fold Volcc charging makes it all worth the switch I just love Samsung eco system but you can get most off all those features on other Android devices now these days
@@russianspy1234 they will kill it for sure when apple makes a proper one only sammy abd apple will be there
As a Z Fold 4 user I'm really glad to see Pixel Fold cause I cant wait for future of these devices and we NEED more contenders in this space. BTW my Fold has 2 dead spots in the middle of the screen 6 months after purchase so I'm sending it on warrant to Samsung next week - its still definately not for everyone 😅
I've had the Pixel Fold for a little while now. I had the Z Fold 4 before that (technically still do) so can definitely compare the two. I was a long term iPhone user before that. I've been really surprised by my time with the Pixel. I went into my time with the Pixel thinking I knew what was coming. My short summary is that it's more than the sum of its parts. Also, there are psychological aspects that are hard to reason prior to use. The Pixel's choice to make the outer screen a primary screen and not a cover screen is important. It has a greater impact than I expected. Unfolding into landscape also has a bigger impact than I expected. I dismissed it as you can simply rotate the device. Obviously you can... but you don't... certainly not as often as I thought I would. There is something about using the Pixel that makes it my favourite phone. It's not something you get by looking at the specs on paper. The Z Fold, be that 5 or 4, is the better phone on paper. It is the better phone, in the same way that the iPhone is the better phone than all of these. I'll take the Pixel Fold every time, warts and all.
I have had mine about 3 weeks now and went into the store fully intending to buy a Pixel 8 or Pixel 8Pro. I had seen my friend with his Z4 plenty of times at work and the phone just seemed gimmicky to me, the outer screen is practically unusable to me as the keyboard is so cramped, and they chose to make it the same height as a normal flagship which is the part of "large" phones people hate the most. All of this is to say, there was about a 20 minute window before the rep was able to get to me so while I waited my turn to be seen I started messing around with the different Pixel phones they had on display, including the Fold. The SECOND I picked it up and held it in my hands, I was sold. The form factor for this phone is absolutely 100% perfect. When it is closed the screen on the front has the width of a standard flagship, but is shorter! My biggest gripe with big phones, again, is that they are so tall you can't practically use them one handed if you need to access something at the top of the screen. This fixes that. It is also a bit thicker than your standard slab phone, which is NOT a downside to me. I can hold the phone with so much more confidence since there is so much more to grip. I went in with the intention of buying the next flagship Pixel and came out with a fold.
My buddy who daily drives the Z4 saw me using it and had so many questions about the device, so I let him use it for a few minutes just to see how it felt and what he thought he would be missing out on if he switched. He was pretty much sold right then and there, again, because of the form factor and the usability of that outer screen. He is pretty much committed at this point, his next phone will almost assuredly be a Pixel Fold 2 or 3 (depending on what is available when it comes time to upgrade.)
I can not stress enough, this phone as you said is not the sum of its parts. It is an amazing user experience despite not having the raw numbers on paper that other phones offer, and I PRAY that all other folding phones are taking note of it's design.
This is the aspect ratio I’ve always wanted! I’ll never be able to afford this one but I hope this wider form factor survives the slow transition to mid-range phones.
I loved it on old iPads. I loved it on my blackberry passport. I’ve stuck with iPhone SE instead of any of the taller/thinner screened devices.
Fingers crossed companies keep making these extremely readable and usable devices
The diameter of the front screen is what phones used to be until a few years ago when they all went tall and ridiculously narrow for unknown reasons.
Keep the great work Mike. I’ve been following you for 20 years. I used to be running Dave’s iPaq and Mobility Today back in the day 😊
12:26 An immediate rush of nostalgia from the background music and your voice! I’ll go back and watch your review of the Pebble Time just to bring me back to the good old days! Fantastic review!
I love your narration style. You were a journalist before. It takes special training to be so consice yet informative 🙂
I've never been an actual journalist (I respect the profession too much to claim that) but I really appreciate the compliment!
the way you film all of your videos outside is truly awesome. I wish you make a video to show us how you do it someday
Amazing review. I absolutely adore mine. Perfection? No. Hardly. But the positive changes this brings to the foldable experience over the Z Fold 3 I've neen working with over the past couple of years greatly overshadows the flaws.
I use this, much as you said, like a normal phone most of the time, but it's still as glorious as ever to be able to open that middle screen when you need a tablet-sized view. And I LOVE the horizontal aspect ratio by default!
This is why I'm trading in my Fold 4 for one. I need that wider screen as I text mainly from the front. Just that alone is worth the change, but I welcome the better cam and pure Android. Glad you like yours.
8:59 How can you say consistency when the Pixel Fold blew out the background sky? 9:08 same overexposed cloudy skies.
Excellent review sir! If the Z Fold5 is as same as the leaks suggest, think I'll sit out this product cycle and hold onto my Z Fold4. It's been great at multitasking and surprisingly durable, so don't think that keeping it for another year will be a problem. That said, having a wide front screen will be a key reason I upgrade when the time comes. I admit, I do miss a lot of the Goole-y features that come with a Pixel. So, most likely, there will be a Pixel Fold 2 in my future. Thanks again for the excellent review Mr. Fisher!
See, that's honestly one thing that would make me get a Pixel over the Galaxy folds, I want that wider screen, enough that I'd pay more for less even. It's just too good an idea
There is no reason to get a new phone every year unless you like wasting money. Stick with your Fold 4 for another 3 years at least.
I can't believe i missed this but...i just saw the nod to the movie contact in this review. "Why have one when you can have two for twice the price?" Is such a good line. I love that film.
I've been waiting for this review, I got my Pixel Fold on Wednesday and I absolutely love it! I had some buyers remorse before having it in-hand but it quickly faded after feeling the form factor and when I ended the first full day at 46% battery
Phone is garbage, keep coping
@@jro1472 You've got one?
Keep that screen clean when you shut it
@tloHnadroJ sold mine 2 days after it arrived to some enthusiast willing to pay a premium for it. Really wanted to love the phone, but should have known better buying a first Gen foldable, from Google no less. The price is entirely unjustified.
@@jro1472 What didn't you like specifically?
Seems like it is next step in developing an successful foldable, shedding off a few of the flaws that other models had and were criticized for. Sorry to hear about the quite problematic speaker position during phonecalls and the not impressive battery live. Surely seems more capable of being daily device than the early Samsung Galaxies.
Surprising to hear there is something like a "too reflective screen" after years of the completely dull screen surfaces since the advent of LCDs at all.
11:30 - burrata my love ?
Looking to upgrade from the galaxy fold 2 this summer, this is a tough one. My main issue with foldable has always been the cover screen, and the pixel certainly remedies this. Though it's a hard sell with that chipset.
For Samsung camera you can choose from the settings if it keeps the previous mode or back to the default. "Settings to keep" and there just click those off you don't want to keep.
For the algorithm. ✊
@@beefbusiness52Every drop in the bucket could be the one that let it flow over
For the Emperor!
@@Tantive 😎✊
For King and Country!!✊
@@engineering_guy 😂
Your review is the only one that really showcases the daily "living with" the phone. Great vid.
Usually watch you phone on small , just saw it on TV screen. You have 1 TB google backup !!! Damn boy thats thick !!!
Great review and excellent Trek references, once again!
...including the 17:01 runtime 🖖😉
So hyped! I hope the next edition will get stylus support! If so, then it will definitely be my first foldable.
Now I'm using a Pixel 7 Pro and iPad Air, a good foldable will be able to replace both!
Great review!
Good video you did on the narration of the video and how you presented the phone and how you explained about the phone keep doing your thing.
I find it interesting that Google was able to achieve water resistance on their first gen foldable as opposed to Samsung which took 3 generations to get water resistance. Interesting to see if Google adds stylus support to their foldables.
I have to say not many folks can beat your content, sir. The delivery alone puts you on the upper echelon. Well done.
That water proofing thing is a nice trick. The bezels aren’t bad, coming from a surface duo. I really do find width better on phones than more excess height.
Don't think you mentioned it, but wish you did...and which is a huge deal to me, is the fact that you can't have different layouts between the outer and inner screens. That's a big fail.
His reviews are absolutely captivating! I'm always impressed by how he skillfully guides you on an immersive journey with the smartphone. It's far from a typical youtube tech review video; he adds a touch of authenticity that makes it truly exceptional
After watching this back-to-back with the fold 5 hands-on (and a two month hellride getting my fold 3 repaired) i think I'm actually gonna switch this year. I noticed that the aspect ratio on the fold 3's outer screen is bothering me more over time rather than the opposite, and the fold 5 is relatively underwhelming other than the SoC upgrade.
Thanks for covering foldables so extensively man!
More reviewers should take notes on how you present devices and conduct your reviews. It's currently unmatched. Well done, Sir. Excellent review.
No one reviews tech as well as you do. The travel/vlog-style tours of NewYork and around are a cherry on top. Pls keep up the great work!
I got it yesterday in the mail. It's really an incredible device. Does it have room for improvement? Of course, and so does every 1st gen device. But I love it. I do think $1800 is steep but hopefully in the next 5 years we can expect foldables to be sub $1000
See I would absolutely get this next year for 1k. If it ever dips that low
I think a lot of people underestimate the advantage of having a narrow cover screen on the Z Fold series - one handed usage. I'm glad Samsung is sticking to this design for the ZF5. When I'm on the go I want something I can pull out of my pocket and use one handed. If I want a bigger screen and use my phone with both hands I'll open it up. That's the purpose of having a foldable device. Don't give me something that's going to make me use the outer display more -that's not the reason I bought it.
I totally agree. I'm using a S21 ultra and I have smallish hands and it's a challenge to reach parts of the screen. Was thinking ZF4 but durability seems terrible.. maybe ZF5..
You have always been optimistic about foldables, that makes me wanna have a foldable one day.
Other RUclipsrs, no matter what they say in conclusion make me feel that foldables are just fad and won't last more than a few years.
I'm grateful for your videos.
My fold e screen has needed 2 replacements. But it’s still awesome. Just get warranty
Finally the review is here!
It looks great for a first gen foldable. I'm generally not a big fan of the Pixel design (both hardware and UI) but it's great to see real competition in the space in the US. I LOVE the book style foldable and think it'd be better than Samsung's taller format. I love my Fold4, but I've also had some hinge reliability issues. I'm hoping Samsung and Google's next gen devices get more durable, dust resistance, etc.
And while things look pretty good for the first generation, I still think Samsung has Google beat in terms of multitasking software on the foldables. S-pen support, 3+ apps running at once, easier ways to switch between things, different home screens for when the device is open vs closed. Those are things I can't easily give up.
We agree on Samsung's lead in multitasking software. As Dan Seifert was saying on the latest Vergecast: the Fold 4 is like a PC in your pocket. Pixel Fold's value proposition is quite different.
@@TheMrMobile Yeah for sure. I just want that PC in your pocket in a book form factor, a better camera, a longer lasting battery, and dust resistance. That'd be perfect.
I've had a Pixel Fold for 6 weeks from a Z Fold 4 and agree, it's amazing. But it's too heavy and the inner screen not bright enough. And the tensor chip gets hot & is slow when searching notes. As you say the non optimised apps (IG & Twitter) are annoying, but the optimised apps are amazing. As is the camera. And the Pixel experience. I have ordered the Z Fold 5 (upgrade) because of the lighter weight, faster approval, but worse outer screen.
I don’t know. It’s been having displays breaking within hours of use and the lack of stylus support seems to kill the productivity for this device.
I have to say. Out of all the tech RUclipsrs I follow, you are the best for reviews. Keep up the good work mate.
Although this product seems very flawed, this product does open up the possibility that Google will finally make Android work better on tablets and foldables, so I just hope they continue on the line and make more of these...
Didn't they also made a tablet before? What happened to the hope of optimized apps? Google has a habit of starting something and leaving it cold turkey.
Typing this from my new fold. I'm slightly worried about durability but it's not flawed for me. Actually the most premium feeling tech product I've owned and I have a lot. The form factor is amazing. It really turns heads.
@@tennman The point is that Samsung and Google's partnership. Samsung is not leaving behind these form factors and Google wants Samsung to succeed and get more Android Devices out there. That's why Google spent the effort with the software on Android for large screen form factor with the assurance Samsung will stick with this product line.
Samsung is pushing the tablet ui forward more than Google. it's app developers that aren't doing the work because there just aren't a lot of people using android tablets to motivate them to do so. that said, for most of the apps regular people use... this shouldn't be a problem.
The review i was waiting for!! Great review as always! Thank you for showing the grip case too, looks great, Hopefully they start shipping them out soon
It was genuinely surprised to hear someone say Google support was terrible. I've had a tough time with Microsoft, sony, LG, and Samsung over the years, but anytime I ran into a problem with a pixel, Google was easy to get a hold of and sent me a new phone without question.
Yes, I have had two experiences in the last year or so. Both went well and I was kept up to date all the way. One was dead pixels on the display (new phone) and the other was a smashed display (replaced). Despite shipping 1000+ miles away they only took a week or so to be sorted!
5:06 thought tainted love started playing
Always worth the wait! I wish Google optimizes Tensor. I don't use my pixel 7 because of how hot it gets in India.
Excellent as always. Been with an iPhone for years now and this is the first foldable that has really made me contemplate switching back to android
Definitely worth the wait!
Great review Michael! Your thorough, non-generalized, camera comparison with the Galaxy Z Fold was enlightening.
Motorola Razr+
Enough Said
Excellent review. Just what I needed I to start off my holidays. Plenty of time to be Mobile in a leasurly pace. Have a great summer Michael.
Better review than Mkbhd...
Great review ! Thanks. Always love the day in the life experience and perspective.
Got my Pixel Fold a few days ago. Absolutely love it! Haven't experienced any app crashes like you though. As far as this phone not met to be sold to many people, i can see how one could come to that conclusion. I do feel like a lot of people still bought it though and there's definitely a lot of interest about it floating around the web. As someone with hands on experience with the Pixel Fold for several days now, your review was pretty spot on. Keep up the fantastic content.
How really noticeable is the crease when using the phone? And, how really reflective is the inside screen? I would appreciate any insight about it. Thank you.
Michael I'm from Hampton Roads. We are proud of you!!!
Tensor G2 is the biggest deal breaker for me coupled with the overheating issues.
It's not the price that's the problem whether it's $1,800 for this or $2,500+ for the Huawei Mate X3. It's what you DON'T get for the price you pay that's the problem.
Tensor G3 should've been in the Pixel Fold.
No kidding, $1800 for a chip that is a couple years behind in performance. Plus, I had to give up on my Pixel 7 due to Tensor G2 issues. Overheating during basic tasks and especially during camera use, poor signal reception in areas the Qualcomm equivalent would be fine, not roaming properly and dropping calls, and finally the unpredictable battery life. Questionable decision to drop it into the Fold, but maybe they saw it as a gamble anyways so they thought it was fine.
Hoping the Tensor G3 knocks it out of the park, otherwise this trio of Tensor chips is going to have a poor legacy.
To all techies out there. Please note that the tensor chip is not targeted at gamers or hardcore power users. This is obvious and complaining about something that every techie knows is not aimed at them seems superfluous. If you want more power buy something with a more powerful chip. The Pixel range is more about ML and AI. This is explained in every review. I cannot understand why we still get complaints.
@@andyH_England TIL that dropped calls and camera overheating are for power users and gamers..
@@andyH_EnglandSure... But why should people have to compromise at this price? Other folding phones at similar or lower price have considerably better processors.
@@peteT269 people do not need to compromise as they always have the choice of not buying. Google decided that $1800 was the lowest they would go and the alternative, no doubt, was to not bother. So at least we get to see a Pixel fold and if it's too expensive for you, just move on to another device. Not every device is made for you, or for me, so you have the choice.
I get excited when I get notifications for your videos. Truly amazing content. 👏 thanks again bro keep em coming
Fantastic video worth the wait. The Pixel Fold excites me because of the potential it gives the future of foldables. Will it be enough to pull me from the comfort of iOS and iPadOS? Probably not this Gen, but I hope next generation it will be. I’m a sucker for that design though.
Almost $2,000 for this device and no charger, no case, no headphones, no headphone jack, no expandable storage, and no pen support? Really? I don't think so
I'd never buy a foldable (unless they get really cheap), but I love your reviews. They're extremely calming. Thank you!
Aggree too much money still.
I would wait for the Motorola razr 40
Had an Fold 2 ( samsung ) and Flip 3 ( samsung ) but it get it..
What exactly is "really cheap" to you??
You make it sound like if foldables are $5,000+.
@@PSYCHOV3N0M Probably like £300. £1k is a lot for a phone tbh, and I already have a Z Flip4.
There is something about a Michael Fisher video. It takes its time, it's thorough, he is easy to listen to and most of all it is honest. They keep getting better. Well done sir.
The durability issues we’re already seeing with the Pixel Fold doesn’t bode well. Let’s see if Google makes it right someday
Outstanding.I bought my Z Flip 3 because of your review, and now because of this review.....
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I'll probably still be buying the Motorola Flip next, based on what you've said here / unless the Samsung Flip 5 really astounds us. Still, lovely review and I'm glad google is in this game. Now if only they stay in this game...and stop playing with Xixi the Panda bear and start respecting their customer's privacy....Jk, they're google.
I love how honest and unbiased these reviews always are. Willing to talk strongly about the cons but still say it will probably end up in your pocket despite those flaws. Keep it up, favorite tech reviewer right here
It's ironic that the biggest weak spot is the chipset and modem which are all made by Samsung. Samsung's improvements on that front are only because they ditched their own fabbed chips for Qualcomm. It's interesting that pixel switched to Qualcomm for the second generation watch according to rumors. If they switch to Qualcomm or dimensity or something for the 4th generation pixel I could see improvements. The problem at this point though is if it's Qualcomm, then there goes yet another option at a possible competitor in the silicon space with Samsung continuing to struggle.
What it's worth I have a phone with the first generation tensor. I've never had a single heat warning, my battery life has been very good ... But I think a big part of that help is that I rely so much on Wi-Fi since the biggest problem is the exynos modem.
Michael, you've been my go-to for phone reviews since the time you reviewed for Pocketnow. Even when I'm not actively researching a phone to purchase I watch your videos to keep up to date with the latest trends in the mobile world.
If for any reason you were looking to take on additional challenges (not that you would need to with all that you do!) , I think you would make a fantastic audio book narrator. I would love to hear you read something similar to The Expanse where technology is a central theme.
Finally, pixel fold review from my favorite reviewer. Someone who truly reviews phone as it should be done. Thank you for your service Mr Michael. Appreciate the information that you have provided. Your review on z fold 4 is the one who sealed me in on the foldable and no regret since then.
My biggest hope with the Pixel Fold is that it will legitimize the category enough in the states for other brands to take the plunge, including Apple. I'm sure a first gen iFold or whatever infinitely better name i hope they give it will be an absolute disaster of first gen issues and first gen prices just like the iPhone X, but one can hope to be wrong on that front.
iPhone X was fire
LoL. What disaster are you talking about? iPhone X was the best selling smartphone worldwide, so have been every other iphone since then, iPad, watch, airpods, M series Macs, everything has been a best seller and without any issues.
@@jakoick1298 I'm talking about the software bugs that came with early FaceID, the notch, and the removal of the home button. I'm talking about the insane price jump over the identically spec'd iPhones 8. I'm talking about availability issues well into iPhone 11. These devices weren't perfect
I love the 'klomp' when it shuts..
It's honestly a good day whenever Michael drops a new video. I just keep coming back for the excellent storytelling for every phone he reviews instead of just random scripts of phone specs from other reviewers which is just bland in my opinion.
to me it seems like the outside screen should've been a tad more narrow, as I think, the fold's "remote control" design lends itself to better one-handed use.
nah that design is so bad the narrow screen is unusable. folding phones should be a regular pone that give you a tablet experience inside not a cover screen for its main display
@@Soraking007a tablet is not a square. That's what you get with a normal phone experience in the front 🤦♂️
How Google managed to cram such a capable camera in such a small space is testament to their dedication to photography and videography
Thats why the Camera bump is larger on this compared to something like the Fold 4.
Lol results are pretty mid-range and much closer to 7A than to 7Pro, nothing to praise here
@@akarshJD Compare the overall thickness of pixel fold and samsung z fold. Pixel is much thinner but it still needs place for cameras, thus the camera bump is bulkier.
They can make a crappy camera system magical by their software.
2:07 Failure analysis of thick composite cylinders under external pressue 🤔
This guy's folding phone obsession is borderline alarming.
Folds will never be as popular as he wants, because the average person wouldn't pay the price, or deal with the quirks...
You like them, we get it... Most people don't... Let it go.
I've noticed stuttering when going home from dual apps (switched immediately to Niagara, not sure if related), and the main camera won't boot and can't start the flashlight. Google support for that was good, said they're working on a software fix. I'm not much of a photographer so I'll live for a bit.
I love the form factor (first day with the Galaxy Fold I said "I wish it folded the other way"), and the whole experience has been good for me so far. It feels how I want and does what I want. I'm fine with some rough edges in a first gen.
Great review as always! Well worth waiting a few days for!
Blown away by 5x optical zoom on Pixel Fold!
Blown away by the reports of them breaking up after a week
Ah, as Nelly Furtado sang, “Why do all good things come to an end!”
@@fox_mulder24Who has reported that outside of Ars where it looks like a decent piece of dirt got in there that could break any foldable?
Deleting comments looks really bad for you
Reviews from you are the best 😂😂😂 greetings from holland
Pixel fold looks like an engineering prototype 😅
your reviews are really good. honest, quirky, helps anyone wanting to make a buying choice on expensive hardware.
I have waited all year for this video. Mr mobile's take on the pixel fold. I'm already sold but I needed him to do the review before I pull the trigger. Great video as always
I NEED to know where the weather widgets are from on the Fold4!!!!!
I currently got the pixel 7 pro. comparing specs wise to the fold they are almost identical with the exception of a few things like camera and battery life. right now, I wouldn't upgrade to the 1st Gen fold. however, when the next Gen fold does come out with improvements based off feedback from the 1st one, then I'll probably consider going for the foldable. I absolutely love the design though and it has tempted me to want it
Few complaints on my few days of ownership so far. Love the build quality! Another great review Michael 👍
13:35 oooh, that signal strength is very bad....-119 dB in areas where other phones get -108 dB
An excellent review. I normally skip through videos of this nature but your commentary, clarity of voice and comparison to Samsung had me watching all the way through.
The editing on this video O.O Woah, so good!
Little Easter Egg at 2:08 where Mr. Mobile is reading a research paper labeled "Failure analysis of thick composite cylinders under external pressure" just a few days after the loss of the Ocean Gate submarine which used a composite cylinder as the hull of the submarine.
Actually enjoying more and more your tea time breaks. Aside of that, great and refreshing review as usual, keep on the good work 👍🏻
I'm typing rhis out on a pixel fold right now. I love the build quality. But the display has some weird color shifting as you tilt it. Some apps, are buggy, and yes, the lack of optimization for the inner display. Another thing tgat bothers me is the speakers arent as loud. I mainly use iphone, so coming from that theres a big difference in quality. I want to keep it. Android 14 is supposed to make it easier for developers to create optimized apps, and I'd like to think google would continue to update with new features to better take advantage of the inner display.
Cleanst, most informative & straightforward videos
Your thumbnails are always so tantalizing 😆
I prefer the form factor of the Google phone vs the fold 5 but we shall see. I need to upgrade and I'm still not sure a folding phone is worth buying yet.
2:36 What is the panel on the right? Is that a printout of an LCARS screen?
Just insane that just ONE guy produces this whole video?! 🤯
Just curious Michael, what camera do you use to shoot shots of the phones you're reviewing when you're out and about and for the B-roll?
Your hair is fantastic as ever, sir! 😂
I'm glad to see your review of this device. I prefer the dimensions of this foldable to the dimensions of the Galaxy Fold or the Flip. I just had a call come in, so unfortunately, I'll have to wait to finish the review. I'm excited to finish it, though.
A Fold 3 or a Fold 4 if you are on a budget ....... That is a great was to save some money
I don't comment enough to say how great your videos are, just dripping with style and personality. Make great content, get money!
This is my favorite review of yours!! Been a fan for years. Keep up the great work!
Liked the Contact paraphrase while showing the scene on the phone (6:30), lol.
Michael combining vlogging with phone review is just amazing 🤩