Consumer hardware isn’t always I/O. After the pandemic, nothing seems certain anymore. However, the developer shows like I/O and WWDC are promising after a disappointing year for consumer gadgets.
For some time, Google’s affordable Pixel 7a and the long-rumored Pixel Tablet seemed certain (at least for stage time, if not a complete launch). Finally, foldable phones are becoming more likely.
Important context. Google introduced Android foldable screen support in 2018. As Samsung was the biggest partner and recipient, Google intended to make Android development as easy as possible for other OEMs to explore the form factor.
Google foldable patents followed. We’re adults, so we know patents don’t indicate product development. Nevertheless, it’s another crucial data point in this story. Foldables have grown outside of Samsung in recent years. The number of models at MWC in March astounded me.
Two years ago, Google changed its hardware. The Pixel 6, with its in-house silicon, was the company’s pinnacle after years of struggle and identity difficulties. As a result, the pixel market share increased but maintained a single-digit North American smartphone market share.
A book-style foldable is reported for I/O in three weeks. Oppo’s foldable is wider than the Samsung Fold. It recalls Microsoft’s Duo, which had a split screen rather than a foldable one. Google is reportedly mulling the “Pixel Notepad” name. That says “stylus” to me.
Another rumor puts the price at $1,400—pricey by any metric but midway between the Galaxy Flip ($999) and Fold ($1,800). Other rumors place the pricing closer to the Galaxy Fold.
