The dream of a Google Flip smartphone hasn't materialized yet, and there is still no official confirmation. That said, the idea of a Google Pixel Flip hasn't been completely ruled out.
Rumors suggest that Google could be exploring the idea of a clamshell foldable, similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip series or Motorola's Raze. It is interesting to note that many Chinese brands started with book-style foldables before diving into the clamshell design. So, it wouldn't be too surprising if Google decides to go down that path, too.
We're always exploring different types of devices, different technologies, and it's really fascinating. We're definitely considering it.
– George Hwang, Google, May, 2023
Keeping all this in mind, we’ve compiled all the available information about Google's upcoming clamshell foldable into one convenient spot. We will keep you posted with regular updates on news, rumors, and everything buzzing around the web about it, so stay tuned!
Given the lack of detailed information and no previous versions to reference, all we can do is speculate for now. Google introduced its latest foldable phone alongside the Pixel 9 series in August 2024. The tech giant made its book-style foldable a part of the Pixel 9 series, naming it the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
If a Pixel Flip is indeed in the works, it could be unveiled alongside the next-generation Pixel series. As for timing, earlier rumors point to a potential launch in 2025. Whether that's the year it finally arrives, only time will tell.
Device name
Announcement
Market release
Google Pixel Fold
May 10, 2023
June 27, 2023
Google Pixel Flip
August 2025*
2025*
*probable dates
Google Pixel Flip price
It's tough to pin down the exact price for the Google Pixel Flip at this point since it would be a new direction for Google. However, we can make an educated guess by looking at the current trends in the foldable phone market.
Since the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is priced similarly to its main rival, the Galaxy Z Fold 6, it wouldn’t be shocking if a clamshell foldable from Google is priced close to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6, which currently starts at $1,099.
If the trend of increasing smartphone prices persists in the coming years before the rumored release of the Google Pixel Flip, there's a possibility that the price could go even higher than $1000.
Google Pixel Flip name
For now, we are sticking with the name Google Pixel Flip, but the official name remains under wraps. "Flip" feels like a logical choice, especially considering Google went with "Pixel Fold" for its first book-style foldable.
Whether the clamshell foldable ends up being named Flip or Comet, or perhaps both for different purposes (public and internal naming), remains to be seen.
Google Pixel Flip camera
Like everything else, the camera setup for the Pixel Flip is still a mystery. It is likely that Google will stick with the familiar Pixel look, featuring a rear camera setup with a main wide lens and an ultra-wide camera placed side by side.
And while it is still early for solid details, one thing we can expect is the inclusion of AI-powered camera features, which Google has been leaning heavily into lately. So, it is safe to say that any future Pixel phone, including a foldable, will likely have some AI magic behind its camera performance.
Pixel Flip storage
Right now, we can reasonably expect the Pixel Flip to have at least 8 GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of storage. But with how fast tech evolves, there is definitely a chance the final specs could be even more impressive by the time it actually drops.
Following the industry trend, including Google and other manufacturers, it's likely that different storage options will be available, each coming with its own pricing tier.
Google Pixel Flip design and display
When it comes to the design of a clamshell foldable smartphone, one thing is certain: it will resemble a clamshell foldable smartphone. Setting jokes aside, Google has maintained a consistent design approach for its Pixel smartphones over several generations. Drawing insights from the latest Pixel 9 series and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, we can anticipate a similar aesthetic.
This would likely involve a glossy back panel with a substantial cover screen. Google might position a camera visor either above or below the cover screen, with options to adopt the standard Pixel design or the Pixel 9 Pro Fold design for the cameras. A mockup from Caseology envisions the Pixel Flip with a Fold-like camera housing and a smaller bar-like cover screen.
Image Credit–Caseology
Expect the hinge for the display to be akin to the one used on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, or at the very least, an upgraded iteration. Regarding the display itself, there's currently no information available. However, it's reasonable to anticipate at least a primary FHD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. In terms of size, if we take the Galaxy Z Flip 6 as the benchmark for comparison with a potential Pixel Flip, a similar 6.7-inch inner display could be expected.
Pixel Flip battery
The battery details for the Google Pixel Flip remain shrouded in mystery for now, too. Foldable smartphones, particularly clamshell foldables, aren't renowned for their extended battery life. Take Samsung's latest Galaxy Z Flip 6, for instance, equipped with a 4,000mAh battery that can get you through a day with regular usage, but not much beyond that.
The Motorola Razr Plus (2024) packs a similar 4,000mAh battery managing to last a day. Depending on when the Pixel Flip hits the market and the pace of technological advancements, we can anticipate a battery size in the range of 4,000mAh or potentially even better.
Pixel Flip performance and software
If Google continues with its Tensor line of chips, it's plausible that the Pixel Flip will operate on a future iteration. Currently, the latest Tensor chip is the G4, which introduces cutting-edge AI capabilities to the Pixel 9 series.
A next-generation Tensor chip would likely deliver performance on par with other clamshell foldables available in the market at the time. However, it might not reach the performance levels offered by Qualcomm's offerings, if historical trends are any indication.
While the Tensor G2 chip found in the Pixel Fold holds its own ground as a decent performer, it doesn't quite measure up to the prowess of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, powering the Samsung Galaxy Fold 5.
Regarding the software, it's almost a certainty that the Pixel Flip will come equipped with a future version of Android.
Should you wait for Pixel Flip?
Based on what we know so far, details about the future Google Pixel Flip are still pretty limited. While it is possible that Google is working on a clamshell foldable, it might be wise not to wait around for it just yet until we get more solid confirmations.
However, waiting for the Pixel Flip might be a good call if you're a devoted Pixel fan, committed to sticking with Pixel smartphones in the long run, and not in a hurry to get your hands on a clamshell foldable.
On the flip side, if you're eager to get your hands on a new foldable phone right away or in the near future, it's advisable not to wait for the Pixel Flip. There are excellent alternatives currently available, such as the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and the Motorola Razr Plus (2024). Additionally, the Oppo Find N2 or the Find N3 are formidable options that shouldn't be overlooked.
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Tsveta, a passionate technology enthusiast and accomplished playwright, combines her love for mobile technologies and writing to explore and reveal the transformative power of tech. From being an early follower of PhoneArena to relying exclusively on her smartphone for photography, she embraces the immense capabilities of compact devices in our daily lives. With a Journalism degree and an explorative spirit, Tsveta not only provides expert insights into the world of gadgets and smartphones but also shares a unique perspective shaped by her diverse interests in travel, culture, and visual storytelling.
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