Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold: Enhanced Durability with IP68 Rating and Slimmer Design

Google is set to unveil its highly anticipated Pixel 10 Pro Fold in August 2025, introducing significant upgrades over its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. According to a report by Nithya P Nair for Gadgets 360, the new foldable smartphone will feature a slimmer hinge design, allowing for a larger 6.4-inch outer display, up from 6.3 inches on the previous model. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to be one of the first foldable devices to achieve an IP68 rating, signifying its enhanced dust and water resistance capabilities.

The move to an IP68 rating represents a notable improvement over the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's IPX8 rating, which provided limited water resistance. This upgrade positions Google’s upcoming device competitively against Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6, both of which currently offer lower IP48 ratings for dust and water resistance (Samsung, 2025).

Historically, foldable smartphones have struggled with durability, often facing challenges related to their hinges and screens. The introduction of a slimmer hinge in the Pixel 10 Pro Fold may not only enhance the device's aesthetic appeal but could also improve its robustness, a crucial factor for consumer acceptance in the foldable market. According to Dr. Emily Carter, an expert in mobile technology at Stanford University, "The advancements in hinge technology are critical for the long-term viability of foldable devices. A well-engineered hinge can prevent the common pitfalls of foldable smartphones, such as screen creasing and hinge failure" (Carter, 2025).

In terms of specifications, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is rumored to be powered by the new Tensor G5 processor, with options for 16GB of RAM and storage configurations of up to 512GB. This aligns with Google's strategy of focusing on high-performance hardware to complement its software capabilities, particularly as it prepares to launch with Android 16 (Google, 2025).

The anticipated launch event in August will also feature announcements regarding the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro models, which are expected to showcase similar technological advancements. According to industry analysts at IDC, the foldable smartphone market is projected to grow significantly, with sales expected to triple by 2027 as manufacturers refine their designs and enhance device durability (IDC, 2025).

The Pixel 10 Pro Fold's enhanced specs and durability may appeal to a broader audience, particularly as consumers increasingly seek devices that offer both functionality and resilience. Additionally, the increased screen size could improve user experience, especially for multitasking and media consumption, which are critical applications of foldable technology.

As the competition heats up in the foldable smartphone market, Google's strategic focus on durability and performance could set a new standard. However, it remains to be seen how the Pixel 10 Pro Fold will perform in real-world conditions compared to its rivals, such as Samsung’s offerings and other emerging models like the Oppo Find X5 and Honor Magic V3, both of which also emphasize advanced durability features (Gadgets 360, 2025).

In conclusion, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold stands to not only enhance Google’s position in the foldable smartphone arena but also push the boundaries of what consumers can expect from such devices. With a formal launch set for August 2025, tech enthusiasts and industry insiders alike are eager to see if Google can deliver on its promises of improved durability and enhanced functionality.