Google has announced that its annual I/O conference will start on May 10, 2023. Although there is no information about what will be presented during the keynote, it is possible that Google will unveil several devices, including the Pixel 7a and the long-awaited Pixel Fold. A few leaked images of the Pixel Fold have appeared on Reddit, showing the phone’s silver hinge, rounded corners, and black bezels. The pictures are of low quality due to the movement of the subway train where they were taken, but similar sightings of unreleased products by Google employees in public places have happened before, including a prototype Pixel Watch found in a restaurant.
Previously, the Pixel Fold was expected to launch alongside the Pixel 8 series in the third quarter of 2023. However, there is a chance that Google will introduce the device earlier during I/O 2023. If this happens, it is likely that the Pixel Fold will feature the Tensor G2 chip instead of the third-generation successor expected to appear in the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Rumors suggest that the Pixel Fold will cost $1,799 and will have a 5.7mm thick chassis when unfolded, as well as a battery capacity close to 5,000mAh.
According to earlier benchmark leaks, the upcoming phone is expected to feature 12 GB of RAM paired to the Tensor G2 SoC. Reports suggest that it will sport a 64 MP Sony IMX787 sensor for the primary camera, a 12 MP IMX386 ultra-wide camera, and a 10 MP S5K3J1 telephoto camera. It is also speculated to have a 9.5 MP punch-hole camera for the outer screen. The Pixel Fold is rumored to come with a metal frame and a glass back. As we approach the official unveiling in May, we can expect to learn more about the device in the weeks to come.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time that we are getting to see Pixel models in the wild. We have previously witnessed instances of Pixel phones being spotted in public before their official release. The Pixel 4, for instance, was seen on the London Underground well before its launch, and the Pixel 3 XL was accidentally left in a taxi. Furthermore, detailed unboxing videos of Pixel phones had surfaced months ahead of their launch as well.
