GrapheneOS on Pixel 9 Pro Fold: The Private Foldable

GrapheneOS on Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Privacy, Unfolded

Foldable smartphones have traditionally been high-end devices packed with proprietary software and limited to the most polished ecosystems. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold breaks this pattern — as the only foldable supported by GrapheneOS, it's the world's first genuinely private folding phone.

Hardware Overview

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features an 8.0" inner Super Actua display and a 6.3" outer cover display. The Tensor G4 chip and 16GB RAM make it one of the most powerful Android devices available. The camera system — 50MP main, 10.5MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto — is excellent.

Build quality is premium. The hinge mechanism is smooth and has been tested to 500,000 folds. IP68 water resistance is a first for a Pixel foldable.

GrapheneOS on a Foldable

Everything works. Both displays operate normally, the hinge state is detected correctly (apps adapt between cover display and main display), and all hardware features — including the tablet-mode multitasking features — function as expected.

This is not guaranteed when running a custom OS on foldable hardware, so it's worth noting that Google's integration between GrapheneOS and Pixel hardware extends fully to the foldable form factor.

The Inner Display Experience

On the 8.0" inner display, GrapheneOS's multi-window capabilities shine. Running two apps side-by-side — a browser and a notes app, for example — is genuinely useful for productivity. The large canvas makes document reading and media consumption excellent.

Sandboxed Play apps also work in split-screen mode on the inner display, which means full app compatibility is maintained regardless of screen configuration.

Privacy Considerations

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold with GrapheneOS provides the same privacy and security guarantees as any other supported Pixel — Titan M2 security chip, verified boot, hardened kernel, zero telemetry.

The larger screen does mean more surface area for potential shoulder surfing in public, which is worth being mindful of.

Value Assessment

At £1,099 from PrivacyPixel, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a significant investment. For users who genuinely benefit from a foldable form factor — and want the privacy guarantees of GrapheneOS — it's the only option.

There's no comparable privacy-focused foldable anywhere on the market. For those who want one, this is the answer.

Rating: 8.8/10

Excellent hardware, full GrapheneOS compatibility, unique form factor. Premium price for a premium experience.