The current Pixel lineup is its broadest ever, but Google is missing out by avoiding flip phones altogether.
In general, the company has taken a “less is more” approach to its smartphones. The Pixel line began with a single device in 2016, and it took another seven years before we saw more than three phones in the same calendar year.
But after the 2023 quartet (the 8 series plus the 7a), Google has done better this time around. The Pixel 9 and 9 Pro were widely anticipated, as was the Pixel Fold’s successor (although the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold name was a surprise).
But until the wave of leaks leading up to its launch, few predicted we’d see a fourth model, known as the Pixel 9 Pro XL. That means we now have a range of flagship phones to suit different needs, as well as a foldable model for buyers at the cutting edge of the market.
If you’re looking for something more affordable, the Pixel 8a 2024 is a nice mid-range alternative. And while Google doesn’t make a budget phone itself, older models like the Pixel 7a are regularly discounted to under £300/$300.
It’s a solid lineup, but I firmly believe it would be even better with a flip phone added to the mix.
Google is one of the few phone makers that hasn’t tested a flip phone yet (Samsung is already on its 5th generation) and arguably the biggest on the Android side. Apple is also eagerly awaiting a foldable model.
And that’s despite two generations of book-style foldables that are still too experimental and expensive (£1,749/$1,799 for the 9 Pro Fold) to make it into the hands of mainstream consumers.
On the other hand, many flip phones are priced in line with traditional flagships. And there are a few obvious reasons why people might want to buy one over a non-foldable phone.
Whether you want to take high-end selfies, are trying to cut down on screen time, or simply want a more compact design, a flip phone offers real advantages over a traditional phone.
The two main flip phones on the market – the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 and the Motorola Razr 50 Ultra/Razr+ (2024) – are both compelling options.
But both models have significant flaws, from Samsung’s somewhat frustrating screen protector to Motorola’s camera compromises. And the lack of competition is hurting consumers in the UK and US significantly, with Chinese companies seemingly reluctant to launch flip phones outside of Asia.
I believe Google is the only company that could truly master the flip phone format.
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
At the same time, I believe Google is the only company that could truly master the flip phone format.
Pixel phones have some of the best cameras on the market, so using them for selfies would be awesome. Google’s hardware has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, and I’m sure it’ll make a stylish yet durable flip phone. And as the Android maker, it could incentivize developers to create apps that are truly optimized for the Cover Screen.
Together, a potential Pixel Flip could offer the best of both worlds: an exciting hybrid that doesn’t compromise the fundamentals of a great smartphone. If that doesn’t give flip phones mainstream appeal, I don’t know what will.
