Pixel Fold: Early prototype images reveal radically different design

As you can see in the above image, the original Pixel Fold had a radically different camera housing. Instead of the sleek, pill-shaped housing, we got a straight, rectangular channel with all the sensors laid out side-by-side. Plus, the actual sensors were also different. For starters, the primary sensor was an aged 12 MP Sony IMX363 (vs. 48 MP Sony IMX787 on Pixel Fold), 8 MP Sony IMX355 outer selfie camera (vs. 11 MP IMX 3J1) and the telephoto lens was missing altogether. Other changes were a lot more subtle, such as a Tensor G1 SoC instead of Tensor G2, and a slightly smaller outer display. Plus, it would support stylus input like the Galaxy Z Fold5.

While it was wise for Google to polish its foldable for an extra year, it has many design flaws, most notably with its durability. Our in-depth review pointed out some some flaws with its ambient light sensor and thermal throttling under heavy loads. The Tensor G4-powered Pixel Fold 2 (aka Pixel 9 Pro Fold) is slated to bring yet another massive design rehaul with a colossal 8.02-inch screen. Whether or not it comes with the Pixel 9 Pro's new camera sensors is a mystery that will be revealed on its August 13 launch.