Reviewing this phone feels strange while everyone focuses on the passport-sized iPhone Duo and Chinese wide foldables. Google kept its design similar to last year for the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

Updates include a lighter build, brighter screen, improved wireless charging, and a new camera sensor. The subtle olive color is a nice bonus. Still, the device might only appeal to serious Pixel fans rather than first-time buyers.

Even so, using the device has been enjoyable because the cameras perform well, and the screen is pleasant despite a visible crease.

Design

When unfolded, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold measures 5mm thick compared to the 5.2mm Pixel 10 Pro Fold. When folded, it measures 10.1mm thick compared to the 10.8mm predecessor. This spec difference is minor in daily use, and the phone remains thicker than the Honor V6 Magic.

Holding both models reveals a 19 gram weight reduction, though buyers switching devices will barely notice it.

Google claims durability is increased by three times over the sturdy Pixel 10 Pro Fold. A new glass-ceramic cover and glass-fiber composite back absorb impacts. The reviewer dropped the Pixel 10 several times without dents or scratches.

The strong hinge prevents one-handed unfolding by design.

The outer screen is slightly larger, while peak brightness jumps from 3,000 nits to 3,600 nits for better outdoor visibility.

A visible crease remains, unlike offerings from Oppo and Honor. It stands out more in bright light without a reflective display.

The back features the new HiLight indicator, which illuminates only for favorite contacts and hands-free Gemini conversations.

Software and AI

Reading and watching videos remains enjoyable. Multitasking allows two apps side by side. Optimized apps like Gmail split the screen nicely, but unoptimized apps like Slack remain frustrating.

Android might feel behind Apple's quick developer adoption for the iPhone Duo.

Floating window bubbles offer a convenient way to peek at apps without opening full screens.

Gemini received minor updates, building on Magic Cue suggestions. Rambler was the reviewer's favorite tool for quick replies and notes without using a wide keyboard.

Camera

Foldable cameras still lag behind candybar phones, and the Pro moniker on this device feels misleading compared to the Pixel 11 Pro XL.

The updated 48-megapixel main sensor captures more light and detail. Super Res Zoom increases from 20x to 30x.

Telephoto and ultrawide sensors match the previous generation. Software additions include Looks for tone presets and Magic Capture to select best frames from video.

Price

Priced at $1,899, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold targets loyal Pixel fans. It costs slightly less than the $1,999 iPhone Duo and matches the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. The taller Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra starts at $2,099 in the U.S.

Upcoming European releases from Xiaomi and Honor will add intense competition.