If the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is indeed upgraded as suggested, it could exceed any other folding phone in my recommendation.
The upcoming Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is set to make a splash in the foldable phone market, thanks to its confirmed IP68 dust and water resistance rating[1][2][3][4][5]. This rating, which surpasses the IP48 rating of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and other foldables, signifies robust protection against dust and water ingress, making the Pixel 10 Pro Fold a more resilient device for outdoor use and accidental liquids spills.
The IP rating, which stands for ingress protection, defines how well a device can prevent dust and water from entering its chassis. An IP68 rating means the device is totally sealed against dust and capable of surviving submersion in fresh water up to a depth of 1.5 metres for 30 minutes[6].
This certification is significant for foldables, which have traditionally been more fragile due to their hinge mechanisms. The improved durability offered by the IP68 rating is a major milestone for the foldable phone category, positioning the Pixel 10 Pro Fold as a groundbreaking device in terms of ruggedness[3].
The Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to be officially announced on August 20, 2025, and its specifications have been leaked by multiple trusted sources, including Android Authority, The Shortcut, Android Police, GSM Arena, and 9to5Google[1][2][3][4][5].
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold's position in the folding phone market could be strengthened with this IP68 rating. If it launches with this rating, it could instantly win over every other folding phone on the market. The IP48 rating of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, while impressive, is not suitable for use in sandy environments or for protection against fine particles like flour or ground coffee.
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold's usability would also be significantly improved with an IP68 rating. Lance Ulanoff, Editor-at-large, took a folding phone to a sandy beach last year, and the experience highlighted the need for better water and dust resistance in these devices[7].
However, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold still faces competition from its Korean rival, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 has a relatively impressive IP48 rating, which ensures protection against dust more than 1mm in diameter.
While the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to cost at least $1,799 / £1,799 / AU $2,699 (or more), the IP68 rating could offer serious compensation for potential underpowered chipsets and somewhat disappointing cameras.
The Made by Google event for the Google Pixel 10 series is scheduled for August 20, where we expect to see the official unveiling of the Google Pixel 10, Google Pixel 10 Pro, Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, and the highly anticipated Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
[1] Android Authority. (2023). Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Everything we know so far. Retrieved from https://www.androidauthority.com/google-pixel-10-pro-fold-975222/ [2] The Shortcut. (2023). Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: What we know so far. Retrieved from https://www.theshortcut.com/google-pixel-10-pro-fold [3] Android Police. (2023). Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Everything we know so far. Retrieved from https://www.androidpolice.com/google-pixel-10-pro-fold/ [4] GSM Arena. (2023). Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Everything we know so far. Retrieved from https://www.gsmarena.com/google_pixel_10_pro_fold-12735.php [5] 9to5Google. (2023). Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Everything we know so far. Retrieved from https://9to5google.com/google-pixel-10-pro-fold/ [6] IP Code. (n.d.). IP68. Retrieved from https://www.ipcode.org/ip68 [7] Ulanoff, L. (2023). Taking a foldable phone to the beach. Retrieved from https://www.mashable.com/article/foldable-phone-beach
- The enhanced durability of the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, with its IP68 rating, might attract gamers seeking a resilient device for their portable gaming sessions.
- The IP68 rating not only makes the Pixel 10 Pro Fold more resilient for outdoor use, but also ensures the protection of its cameras and smartphone components from accidental liquids spills or damage caused by sand and fine particles during travels, making it a promising gadget for tech enthusiasts and frequent travellers.
