One year with the Google Pixel 10 Pro: Why do bad things happen to good phones?

Perhaps the best part of owning a Pixel is that the phone is better a year in than on the day it launched. Google has very successfully made a name for itself in the industry with Pixel Drops, a set of quarterly updates delivered to Pixel phones alongside monthly security updates and annual operating system updates.

After a year with the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, I can confidently say this phone is better now than it was last August, but that comes with some caveats along the way. Considering the rising prices of electronics these days, it very likely makes more sense to buy a Pixel 10 this year than a Pixel 11.

While the Pixel 11 is launching with several new features that might make Pixel 10 owners jealous, there is very little doubt in my mind that the vast majority, if not all, of these new features will come to the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

But this past year hasn't been without its problems for the Pixel 10 series, and a series of very serious, problematic software updates follows a trend Google simply shouldn't be proud of. One of the reasons I didn't recommend the Pixel 10 series last year was its bad software update track record, and Google did nothing to help that image this year. Let's explore the best and worst of the Pixel 10 after one year, shall we?

Start with the bad

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

I'm going to get the bad out of the way because it's really bad. Ever since the Pixel 6, Pixel phones have been a bit... buggy. Most of the time, a reboot fixes the issues, or, in a worst-case scenario, you have to wait a month or two for Google to patch them. But March 2025 marked the start of a trend in the wrong direction. I even wrote a guide on how to roll back your firmware at the time.

Somehow, the Pixel 10 series may have had the most update issues I can recall with a Pixel phone to date. For the first several months, Google continuously worked on weird graphical issues for the Pixel 10. Touch responsiveness and battery drain issues followed in January, and the patch even completely broke Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

And then the really big problems began. Google's March 2026 update seemed to finally put an end to the GPU issues users had dealt with since launch, but it also bricked many Pixel 10 units. So many users reported the problem that the initial bug report hit the maximum number of comments, while the follow-up report is now 230 comments deep as of August 10.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

This very scenario is something I was concerned about going into the Pixel 10's release, and Google has done little to assuage my fears about recommending its devices. The problem mainly seems to come down to Google's update cadence. With very rare exceptions, Pixels get an OS update every month. In my opinion, this is too much and doesn't allow enough time for proper QA testing.

I wrote as much about Meta Quest headsets in April 2025, as the same kinds of issues kept popping up with every monthly software update. Quarterly or even bimonthly software updates make much more sense and would certainly give Google more time to test devices properly before rolling them out to the public.

At this point, there is zero likelihood that I would recommend Pixels to anyone, given Google's abysmal track record of software update stability. It's time for Google to take this seriously and fix a brand-killing problem.

Mellow it out a bit

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Google has shied away from promoting its phones as top performers, and I said as much in my Pixel 10 Pro review. Some games are fine on this phone, while others aren't. That hasn't changed at all in a year.

But we did see some software changes toned down a bit compared to Google's initial marketing. Pixel Daily Hub was removed just a few weeks after launch, and while Google said the feature would come back better than ever, that never happened. Instead, it looks like we got Gemini Daily Brief, a feature I enjoy using every morning, but not one that's Pixel-exclusive, and it's also not quite the same as what Daily Hub was.

Google also removed Pixel Studio, the AI-generated image creation suite that shipped with every Pixel 10. Ironically, Google did this right before Apple announced an identical AI-powered image generation app for iOS 27.

Now for some better news

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

If you made it this far (and I'm impressed you did, to be honest), then you're about to get a lot happier about the Pixel 10's future. Let's start with Magic Cue, a feature hyped during the Pixel 10's launch that turned out to be far less exciting than most hoped for. Google put major work into the feature, and it's being relaunched as Gemini Proactive Intelligence with the Pixel 11 series and Android 17.

Google also debuted Material 3 Expressive in the Pixel 10 Pro's first big update, further improving the look and feel of Pixels, with additional apps and settings windows getting the update a few months later. Google then debuted AI-powered notification summaries in October 2025, and Pixel Theme Packs a month later.

Subsequent updates gave us custom AI-generated icons, followed by a working desktop mode and a brand new notification organizer. Then, in 2026, we got Gemini automation (albeit not a Pixel-exclusive feature), lock screen widgets, and the rather awesome Comfort View Filters to reduce visual stimulation.

(Image credit: Nicholas Sutrich / Android Central)

Yeah, it's been a monumental year of jam-packed updates, often delivered via Pixel Drops each quarter. Assuming you weren't one of the people who experienced major problems with your Pixel 10 after an update, you were probably extremely happy with Google's support for its phones.

Which brings me back to what I said in the intro: the Pixel 10 Pro is a better phone today than it was on launch day, and that's not just because Google introduced a boatload of new features. It's also because the company wasn't shy about pulling back features that weren't worthwhile and then reintroducing them when they were improved.

Here's hoping that the problematic updates we've seen over the past year for this phone are gone and, in their place, updates we can actually look forward to installing. Otherwise, I'm not entirely convinced people will want to keep returning to the Pixel brand.

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Does your kid need a new tablet? The top-rated Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition just crashed to $69.99 for a limited time

Kid-friendly tablet deals are officially here as the new school year approaches, much to the delight of parents and children alike. As one example, Amazon has cut $40 off the price of the Fire 7 Kids Tablet, representing a 36% price cut and bringing the device down to just $70.

The Amazon Fire Kids lineup is well-liked for the interface's easy-to-use parental controls, and for the durable, hard plastic cover that's spill- and drop-proof enough to handle a child's active lifestyle. This particular deal is for the ad-free version of the Fire tablet, and it comes in red, blue, or purple, each with different colored accents of their own.

The Fire 7 Kids Edition is rated for children ages 3 to 7, and it comes with a free one-year subscription to Amazon Kids Plus. Parents also love the Parent Dashboard, which makes it easy to filter content based on their child's particular age, along with the ability to set device time limits, create educational goals, and even access kid-friendly versions of streaming apps such as Netflix and Disney Plus.

Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition: $109.99 $69.99 at Amazon

For a limited time, Amazon has cut 36% off the price of the Fire 7 Kids tablet, which marks a $40 discount weeks ahead of the first day of school. From parental controls to the sturdy hinge and plastic housing, this is a great ready-made device for children, and purchase also comes with a two-year worry-free guarantee.View Deal

✅Recommended if: you want one of the best Android tablets for kids, with easy access to parental controls, a small, durable build, and a price point that won't break the bank; you want a tablet for your kids that has plenty of storage for a variety of apps; you like having a long-lasting battery that will last through trips in the car or other longer-term use periods.

❌Skip this deal if: you'd rather upgrade your kids to the larger 8- or 10-inch displays, rather than the slightly cramped 7-inch option; you need a kids' tablet that's compatible with a wide range of Google services; you'd prefer to avoid an Amazon product and would want to consider the more educationally-focused LeapFrog LeapPad kids tablet.

The Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition comes with a small, easy-to-hold 7-inch screen, up to 10 hours of battery life, and 16GB of storage. If you expect your child to need more storage space, the device also has a 1TB microSD port, offering more than enough space for most.

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T-Mobile is giving away the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL for FREE without trade — so what's the catch?

TL;DR: This T-Mobile deal will give you a free Google Pixel 11 Pro XL when you add a line with the Experience Beyond plan. You'll still have to pay for the wireless, any applicable sales tax, and the $35 activation fee. 

If you want the ultimate Pixel phone experience, the Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is the device for you. This powerful flagship was just unveiled last week with a $1,299.99 price tag, but you can already get the phone for FREE from T-Mobile when you add a line with the Experience Beyond plan.

That said, as with most carrier deals, "FREE" simply means that you won't pay the retail cost for the phone. You will still have to cover any sales tax and activation fees, not to mention the monthly cost of the phone plan. So is this Google Pixel 11 preorder deal really worth it? Let's break it down. 

Google Pixel 11 Pro XL 256GB: $1,299.99 FREE with Experience Beyond plan at T-Mobile

New and existing T-Mobile customers who add a line with the Experience Beyond plan will get their Google Pixel 11 Pro XL preorder for free. No trade-in required!

The Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is a powerful flagship phone with an efficient Tensor G6 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and an impressive 6.8-inch AMOLED display. You also get a massive 5,115mAh battery, incredible AI-boosted camera system, and the new HiLight LED array for customizable light-based notifications. View Deal

• Check out my guide to the best Google Pixel 11 preorder deals

For starters, it's important to note that Experience Beyond is T-Mobile's most expensive unlimited plan, which is why the company can afford to give you a $1,299 smartphone for free when you sign up. 

The plan starts around $100/month for a single line, although you can drop that price down considerably by using AutoPay and adding multiple lines at once. Adding four lines, for instance, could drop the price of each line down to $53.75/month. 

The good news is that you get a lot of bang for your buck. In addition to unlimited talk, text, and premium data on T-Mo's vast 5G network, the Experience Beyond plan gets you an unlimited mobile hotspot, a ton of international benefits, and free subscriptions to Netflix and Hulu. You also get a five-year price guarantee. 

(Image credit: Shruti Shekar / Android Central)

Is this deal right for you?

If you want one of the best unlimited plans in the business and you don't mind paying for it, definitely. For folks who can afford it, the Experience Beyond plan is a fantastic choice, especially when you get a powerful Android phone out of the deal. 

That being said, if you want to save money on your phone bill, there are plenty of other Pixel 11 deals that might be more cost-effective. For example, T-Mobile will give you the base model Google Pixel 11 for free when you add a line with "most plans" on the carrier's site, and that includes the more-affordable Essentials tier (which starts at just $55 per month for a single line). 

If you prefer the simplicity of unlocked phones, it's also worth mentioning that retailers like Amazon and Best Buy will give you a free gift card worth up to $200 when you preorder a Pixel 11 phone. Many of these stores also offer trade-in discounts if you have an old or broken phone lying around. 

In conclusion, there are a ton of ways to save money on a Google Pixel 11 ahead of the phones' August 20th release date — but if you were looking to sign up for T-Mobile's best unlimited plan anyway, now's your chance to get some great wireless and a great new phone in one fell swoop. 

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Google Tensor G6: Everything you need to know

Google's Tensor designs have been underwhelming to say the least. Unlike Qualcomm and MediaTek, Google prioritizes the TPU, so you don't quite get the same level of performance as other high-end mobile platforms. This has been a constant source of annoyance over the last four years, and while Pixels aren't necessarily slow by any measure, they don't handle extended gaming or any sustained intensive workload — like shooting a 30-minute 4K video — all that well.

Thankfully, there's a lot to like in the Tensor G6 that's powering the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and the 11 Pro Fold; it addresses a lot of the lingering issues with Google's hardware efforts. I'll share detailed benchmarks of the Tensor G6 in a little while, but ahead of that, I want to talk about what's new with the underlying hardware this year, and why the G6 is a better choice than previous generations.

The Tensor G6 does a much better job in everyday tasks

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

There are two things with the Tensor G6 that make it stand out: a switch to Arm's latest mobile cores, and a new MediaTek modem. I'll start with the latter; if you've used a Pixel in the past, you would've noticed intermittent connectivity issues.

Google went with a Samsung modem in previous years, and the kindest thing I can say about it is that it didn't consume too much power. It wasn't anywhere close to what Qualcomm and MediaTek were offering when it came to connectivity, so I'm glad to see Google making the move to a MediaTek modem this year — this in itself should resolve a lot of the hardware bugbears that plagued Pixels. Google doesn't mention the MediaTek modem, only stating that Pixel 11 devices include "the most power-efficient modem ever on a Google Pixel, delivering a reliable connection and strong signal reception."

The other part is the new cores; Google went with Arm's latest C1-Ultra and C1-Pro this generation. But unlike the traditional eight-core design, Google is using seven cores in total, and that's something we usually only see with foldables. It could be that the additional space is utilized by the TPU.

Still, Google says the Tensor G6 is 25% faster at browsing and delivers up to 20% better power efficiency against last year's G5. That's encouraging, and it should mean the Pixel 11 models have increased fluidity in daily use. I'll share findings after testing the phones, but it's good to see the G6 isn't hobbled in this area.

Category	Google Tensor G6	Google Tensor G5
CPU	1x Arm C1-Ultra 4x Arm C1-Pro 2x Arm C1-Pro	1x Arm Cortex-X4 (3.78GHz) 5x Arm Cortex-A725 (3.05GHz) 2x Arm Cortex-A520 (2.25GHz)
GPU	PowerVR CXTP-48-1536	PowerVR DXT-48-1536
Memory	LPDDR5X	LPDDR5X
TPU	5th-gen Tensor Processing Unit	4th-gen Tensor Processing Unit
Security Co-processor	Titan M3	Titan M2
Modem	MediaTek M90	Samsung Exynos 5400
Process Node	TSMC 3nm	TSMC 3nm

Other positives include a dedicated Titan M3 security module, and a new vapor chamber that should ensure the phones don't overheat. The only annoyance is that this cooling tech is limited to Pro models, so the standard Pixel 11 misses out in this regard.

While earlier leaks pointed to Google using a new 2nm node — which would drive efficiency gains — that isn't the case. The Tensor G6 is still using the same 3nm node as the rest of the industry, so there isn't anything different in how it is fabricated.

But it still isn't ideal for gaming

Now, where things get interesting is with the GPU. Google is using a PowerVR CXTP this year, and it isn't likely to deliver much in the way of gains over the Tensor G5. This is annoying, as it means another year where Pixels don't quite measure up when it comes to high-end gaming.

There are plenty of high-quality ports available on Android, and Play Pass has a decent selection of titles you can install and play. The biggest issue with Pixels is sustained gaming; with aggressive throttling and thermal limits, you'll notice jitter a lot sooner than other phones, and this was the case on the Pixel 10 Pro XL even with a new thermal management system. I will be testing the G6 to see if there's a difference on the Pixel 11 Pro XL, but based on the hardware at least, it's unlikely that things have changed this year.

Google built one of the best AI-focused mobile platforms

(Image credit: Harish Jonnalagadda / Android Central)

Where the Tensor G6 has its best gains is the TPU. Google notes that it has a 50% more powerful TPU, and it's able to drive everything from Gemini Intelligence, the new Instant Night Sight camera mode and 120x zoom on the Pro models, and Live Translate.

Google is all-in on AI, and its phones reflect that. The new Gemini Nano model combined with the extensive suite of software features make the Pixel 11 models stand out when it comes to on-device AI, and it's clear that this is where the brand sees real differentiation.

I really wanted Google to use a 2nm node and deliver better sustained gaming, but it looks like we'll need to wait another generation before we get the same. As it stands, the Tensor G6 does enough against its predecessors, and while it may not be quite as powerful as Qualcomm and MediaTek rivals, it is a better sight than the G5 and G4.

Google

Pixel 11 Pro XL

Of the four new models, the Pixel 11 Pro XL is the one I'd buy. The new Canyon color looks exquisite, it takes better photos and videos, and the Tensor G6 is at its best in the device.

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Google Pixel 12 Pro Fold: Everything we know so far and want to see

Google made a few changes to the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, and the result is a foldable that's lighter, faster, and has a better main camera than last year's Pixel 10 Pro Fold. However, with other brands rolling out foldables with sleeker designs, bigger batteries, and high-res camera systems — the Find N6 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra are thinner, last longer, and take better photos — Google needs to do better with its 2027 launches.

This year's release is tame by industry standards, and while details are light on the Pixel 12 Pro Fold, there are a few things we can easily guess, and I'd like to see a few features on next year's foldable. I'll update this post regularly as and when new leaks emerge, but for now, this is what I'd like to see with the Pixel 12 Pro Fold.

Google Pixel 12 Pro Fold: Pricing and availability

(Image credit: Shruti Shekar / Android Central)

Google increased pricing across the board this year, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold debuted at $1,899. It's a given that the Pixel 12 Pro Fold will launch at the same price — should things with the memory shortages continue as it is.

There are indications that suggest an even greater shortage next year thanks to memory makers selling out their inventory already, and if that's the case, 2027 could prove to be a difficult upgrade cycle, with brands having to raise prices. Regardless, I'm tracking memory trends, and will be monitoring how this evolves over the next 12 months.

As for when Google may launch the Pixel 12 Pro Fold, it should be around the same time next year. It's clear that an August launch window is a good time to release phones, and I have no reason to believe Google is switching things up in this regard next year.

Google Pixel 12 Pro Fold: What I want to see

(Image credit: Shruti Shekar / Android Central)

I like the design of the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, and I want Google to continue using the same aesthetic — Pixels have a distinct visual styling, and it doesn't make sense to deviate from that. Also, I like the rounded design better than other foldables, and it makes using the Pixel 11 Pro Fold a little easier.

That said, Google needs to deliver a thinner and lighter design next year. While the Pixel 11 Pro Fold is lighter, it is still 239g, and that's at least 20g heavier than most other foldables. I get that Google is touting IP68 dust and water resistance as a unique differentiator — most other foldables only do IP48 — but that advantage is nullified if the phone is too heavy to use comfortably. With the Pixel 12 Pro Fold, I want Google to make a foldable that's under 220g.

Then there's the battery situation. The main reason Google was able to bring down the weight this year is because of the smaller 4,800mAh battery. This means the Pixel 11 Pro Fold has the unwelcome distinction of being the only foldable with a battery under 5,000mAh. While Google touts efficiency gains with the Tensor G6 as a way to deliver the same battery life as the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, that just isn't enough in 2026, and the Pixel 12 Pro Fold needs to do better.

Lastly, there's the cameras. The Pixel 11 Pro Fold gets a new main camera, but the auxiliary lenses are unchanged, and Google has to deliver better cameras next year. Other brands have made better strides in this area, and Google needs to measure up. What's annoying is that the Pixel 11 Pro Fold misses out on some of the new camera features that the Pixel 12 Pro has — including 120x zoom — and Google needs to address these shortcomings next year.

Google

Pixel 11 Pro Fold

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold doesn't look too different to last year's model, but it has a few notable upgrades, and it is a great showcase for all the software features Google has been building over the last 12 months.

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Best Google Pixel Watch 5 bands

The Pixel Watch 5 comes in 41mm and 45mm size variants. When choosing one or two of the best Google Pixel Watch 5 bands to go with your Pixel wearable, keep the size in mind. You wouldn't want to order a band that doesn't end up fitting your Pixel Watch 5.

Another cool fact is that every 41mm Pixel Watch, from the first to the Watch 5, can use the same bands. As for the 45mm Pixel Watch variants introduced from the Watch 5, all of them from then until the latest 45mm Pixel Watch 5 can also use the same bands. I have summarized the best Google Pixel Watch 5 bands for your perusal.

These comfy watch bands fit the Pixel Watch 5 well

Google Pixel Watch Performance Loop Band

Best overall

Available in 41mm and 45mm variants, the first-party Performance Loop Band comes in six different color combos. The micro-adjustable band has stainless steel lugs and is made of recycled polyester, nylon, and elastane yarns that are woven beautifully.

Spigen Athlex Air for Google Pixel Watch 5

Best sporty

The Spigen Athlex Air for Google Pixel Watch 5 is built for strenuous activities, gym use, and sports. It can undergo rough use, comes in 41mm and 45mm options, is lightweight on the wrist, costs below $25, and can be easily adjusted.

Google Pixel Watch Metal Links Band

Best metallic

The Google Pixel Watch Metal Links Band is available in 41mm and 45mm sizes, and you can choose from a Matte Black or Brushed Silver finish. This classic stainless steel watch band is all class and elegance, but it is heartbreakingly expensive.

Bandletic Magnetic Silicone Band Google Pixel Watch 5

Best silicone

The Bandletic Magnetic Silicone Band Google Pixel Watch 5 has a unique look that imitates a metal link band. It looks sporty and fun, feels light and comfy, comes in 41mm and 45mm sizes, has a wide assortment of colors, and goes easy on your wallet.

Spigen Nano Pop for Google Pixel Watch 5

Best color-combo

The Spigen Nano Pop for Google Pixel Watch 5 is an affordable, classic band available in 41mm and 45mm sizes. The Nano Pop series of accessories is a crowd favorite, offering awesome color combos like Blueberry Navy and Black Sesame.

Spigen Rugged Band for Google Pixel Watch 5

Best rugged

Need something really heavy-duty that can survive challenging terrain? Spigen has your back. The Spigen Rugged Band for the Pixel Watch 5 has both 41mm and 45mm variants. It is made of tear and scratch-proof TPU and a very durable metal buckle.

• Back to the top ^

Get the right Pixel Watch 5 band to suit your use style

Accessorizing your Google Pixel Watch 5 entails knowing your preferences. The wearable comes with a basic Pixel Watch Active Band (2nd gen) in the box. While it is water resistant, it makes sense to invest in at least one more Pixel Watch 5 band to go with your lifestyle. If you're a very active individual, you might want to get a heavy-duty strap that is tear-resistant and airy. Getting a more formal band for special occasions and corporate events is also a good idea.

The Pixel Watch Performance Loop Band comes in a wide range of colors and you can choose from 41mm and 45mm variants. This lightweight woven band is freely adjustable and ideal for active wear. If you want something more durable or more affordable, Spigen has a number of fantastic Pixel Watch 5 bands, particularly the sporty Athlex Air and the heavy-duty Rugged Band.

Sleek metal bands like the first-party Pixel Watch Metal Links Band are easy on the eyes, but very harsh on your wallet. I am helplessly in love with this classy metal band, and it even comes with a sizing tool to help you remove extra links, but at $199.99, Google is asking too much. If you don't mind the steep cost of acquiring this stunning stainless steel band, it'll surely elevate the look of your Google Pixel Watch 5 in a marvelous way.

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4 reasons why you should buy a Galaxy Z Fold 8, and 4 reasons why you should skip it

Samsung did a thing this year, making its foldables exciting again with the launch of the smaller, wider Galaxy Z Fold 8. It's basically the little brother of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, a larger foldable that follows the taller and more square design of its predecessors.

Apparently, the smaller Galaxy Z Fold 8 is very popular, as Samsung has highlighted a dramatic increase in preorders and has reportedly ramped up production. But should you buy the Galaxy Z Fold 8? Here are my thoughts after spending a few weeks with the phone and extensively testing its camera.

Why you should buy the Galaxy Z Fold 8

It really is the perfect size

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

I have an affinity for flip phones and have used one as my go-to. I like that they're small and pocketable, though they tend to be quite thick when folded. On the flip side, I tend not to care for larger book-style foldables, as they are quite tall and only open to a larger, square-ish display.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 feels like a Goldilocks foldable, adopting the smaller size of a flip phone while offering the utility of a book-style foldable when open. It's actually the size of my passport when closed, and it's incredibly lightweight and easy to slip in my pocket. I honestly didn't think I would like the Fold 8 until I held it in my hand and something just clicked.

Open it, and it feels more like a tablet than traditional foldables, which I think adds to its appeal.

(Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)

Additionally, both displays are gorgeous, vibrant, and easy to see outdoors. It also helps that the inner display is basically creaseless. Sure, you can see the crease from certain angles and depending on how the light hits it, but if you run your finger across it, it's pretty much not there.

If Apple really is working towards releasing a foldable, this should be the blueprint.

Multitasking and media

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

One of the most awkward things about multitasking on larger book-style foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is that they don't always handle multitasking as well as they should. Samsung's One UI can open three apps at the same time in a split-screen view, but due to the square-ish aspect ratio, only one app is open in full view on one side of the display, while the other two are split in half on the other side.

However, what I love about the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is that you can run three full apps side by side or in a row, which makes it feel more like a tablet than its larger sibling.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

What also helps is how the Galaxy Z Fold 8 handles media and content. Ebooks look great on the inner display, whether you read them in landscape or portrait orientation. Videos also look much better on the inner display than they do on the larger Ultra. They aren't any bigger when open full screen, but the black bars on the top and bottom are smaller.

It also handles vertical videos from TikTok and Instagram better, since you can rotate the phone in a portrait orientation. And you can always watch horizontal videos or videos on the external display, which also look great in either orientation and better fill the 16:10 aspect ratio.

Performance and cool AI features

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, which is currently the most powerful mobile processor on the market. It's paired with 12 or 16GB of RAM, depending on your storage configuration, so there's little issue with performance. It is a flagship, after all, and it handles graphics-intensive games like Honkai: Star Rail quite well.

You'll also get plenty of cool AI features like My FanCam, which lets you reframe a video by focusing on a subject, making it the perfect way to share memories with friends or on social media. You also get plenty of Gemini Intelligence features, such as the ability to let the AI order food or book rideshares and hotels for you, and many of the Galaxy AI features can be processed on-device to keep your data as private as possible.

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

And the AI gets even more proactive by suggesting actions for you based on the context of your conversations, such as surfacing relevant photos for you to share, scheduling information, or your location.

The only downside I've noticed is that it can get a bit warm if you're gaming for an extended period, but this is lessened if you're using a Galaxy Z Fold 8 case.

Price (it's cheaper than the Ultra)

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Foldables aren't cheap, but the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is a couple of hundred dollars cheaper than the Galaxy Z Fold Ultra. If you're trying to choose between the two, price is definitely something to consider, especially since you get roughly the same performance, storage and RAM options, seven-year software promise, and mostly the same feature set. And for the extra couple hundred that you save, you can get yourself some extras, like Qi2 charging accessories.

Why you shouldn't buy the Galaxy Z Fold 8

Price (it's still expensive)

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

That said, $1,900 isn't cheap, and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 is still a very expensive phone. Yes, I do love this phone, but I'm not sure if I would spend that kind of money on any smartphone (that's more than what I pay for rent in Seattle, WA).

If you're willing, you can always trade in an older phone or try to take advantage of Galaxy Z Fold 8 deals. Buying from carriers also makes it easy to spread the cost over time, but the fact of the matter is that you're paying nearly $2,000 for a smartphone.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra is still better

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

For just $200 more, you can get a technically better phone. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra offers larger displays, a bigger battery, and a better camera system that incorporates a 200MP wide and 10MP telephoto sensor.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra also supports the Flex Panel, a handy One UI feature that turns the bottom half of the display into a keyboard or shows various controls when the phone is folded at an angle, depending on the context of what's on the upper half of the display.

So, it's up to you to decide if the $200 upgrade is worth it.

Cameras are meh

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

I really wanted to like the cameras on the Galaxy Z Fold 8, but they're just okay. You get two 50MP sensors that produce decent images, but they tend to lack vibrancy and detail compared to other similar camera systems. I tested the Galaxy Z Fold 8 camera against the Razr Ultra 2026 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and the latter two phones produced more pleasing images of the same scenes.

It also doesn't do particularly well in low light, can be a little noisy, and zoom images lack detail compared to other cameras. Given the lack of a telephoto camera, that's understandable, but that adds to why you might wanna splurge for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra.

No S Pen support

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

If you're hoping for a return of the S Pen to foldable phones, you'll be disappointed with the Galaxy Z Fold 8. Unfortunately, the S Pen remains elusive on Samsung's foldables once again. It's a strange omission, especially given that Motorola now supports an active stylus on the Razr Fold and Samsung continues to include an S Pen with the Galaxy S Ultra models.

It kinda feels like a waste of all that screen real estate, even though it would make for a great canvas and note-taking device, especially with the minimal crease.

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