I’ve been using the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold for about two weeks, and I’ve been surprised by how much I’m enjoying it. It’s inarguably a capable foldable phone, but it’s not quite up to the standard of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, or what companies like Honor and Oppo are producing for markets outside of the U.S.
As TG’s global editor-in-chief, Mark Spoonauer said in his Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold review: “Despite advantages, I’d rather carry the Z Fold 7 as my everyday phone.”
So what’s so compelling about the Pixel 10 Pro Fold that’s kept it in my pocket this past fortnight? It’s not the super-bright displays, the strong cameras, or the IP68 water/dust resistance. It’s also not what you might call the “Pixel Factor” either: I have also used the Pixel 10 Pro XL, which carries all the same software abilities.
You may like
Instead, I believe it’s the unique pairing of a foldable phone and Google’s new “Pixelsnap” attachment system.
The magic of magnets
Pixelsnap, a.k.a. Qi2 — or MagSafe if you want to use the Apple name for it — is a magnetic mounting system for connecting your phone to a wireless charging pad.
It first showed up in the iPhone 12 series. Meanwhile, the big Android phone makers up to now haven’t adopted the technology beyond selling magnetic cases. However, Google has gone all-in with the Pixel 10 series, adding built-in magnets to all the models in the lineup. This includes the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
The benefit of Qi2-based charging is that it works with the hundreds, if not thousands, of products designed for iPhones over the past half-decade.
As of writing, Google only sells a handful of Pixelsnap-compatible accessories, including the somewhat underwhelming Pixelsnap Charger with Stand. But the benefit of Qi2-based charging is that it works with the hundreds, if not thousands, of products designed for iPhones over the past half-decade.
As an iPhone user, I already own several MagSafe/Qi2-ready chargers that the Pixel 10 Pro Fold works with perfectly. It also pairs nicely with some more unusual products, like this magnetic tripod mount.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
All of this has meant I’ve been able to keep the Pixel foldable charged, or watch videos on its large inner display, without having to root around for a cable or a separate stand. It just fits in where my iPhone does.
A standard for other foldables to follow
Pixelsnap is not going to be enough to convince anyone to switch from iPhone to Pixel. But the option to keep many of your existing accessories while moving between the two means that if you do choose to make the change, it won’t put you out of pocket more than it has to.
You may like
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
This applies to any of the Pixel 10 series, but the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, by being a foldable, adds an extra sweetener to the mix. It’s currently the only foldable phone to offer this kind of magnetic support, meaning you won’t be able to enjoy a similar experience with a different foldable unless you buy a specific case, or regular stands and wireless charging pads.
I’m hopeful that Google’s introduction of Pixelsnap will be the jolt that Samsung, OnePlus, and others need to add magnets to their own phones. And that goes doubly for their foldables. Folding phones are the most expensive variety, and ought to come with every possible feature to guarantee users get as much value as possible for their money.
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
For now, I’d still recommend the Galaxy Z Fold 7 for someone wanting the best foldable phone experience. But the Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s magnetic powers make for one heck of a redeeming feature.
Follow Tom’s Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button!
More from Tom’s Guide
Today’s best Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold deals
