Google Pixel Fold tipped for an early 2023 release window

Google Pixel Fold render
(Image credit: MacRumors render)

The much-rumored Google Pixel Fold could finally be released in the first quarter of 2023, according to reputable tipster and display analyst Ross Young

When asked “So where’s that pixel foldable?” on Twitter following the Google Pixel event last week, Young replied with a succinct “Q1.” This follows previous claims he made in September that noted its “4 months till the foldable Pixel smartphone starts panel production,” touting March as the estimated launch month. 

And in response to a follow-up question, Young provided a bit more detail, claiming to know that panel shipments for the device start in January, in preparation for a release later in spring. This would seemingly back up the previous March launch prediction. 

Google has yet to confirm the existence of the Pixel Fold but it was originally expected for a late 2021 release. Speculation has been fuelled by breadcrumbs left by Google, including earlier this year when one of Google’s apps seemed to suggest camera changes to facilitate folding devices. 

And with Android tweaked for use with third-party foldable phones like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, one could argue it's about time Google has its own take on foldable phones to set the standard for others to follow. 

We’ve not got many leaked or rumored specs to go off, with the most interesting arguably being how the Pixel Fold could use a 50MP main camera along with two 12MP sensors and an 8MP one. Regardless, the idea of a foldable phone with the Pixel treatment is intriguing, as we feel more competition is needed in the best foldable phones arena. 

Andy is a freelance writer with a passion for streaming and VPNs. Based in the U.K., he originally cut his teeth at Tom's Guide as a Trainee Writer before moving to cover all things tech and streaming at T3. Outside of work, his passions are movies, football (soccer) and Formula 1. He is also something of an amateur screenwriter having studied creative writing at university.

Read more
Google Pixel 8a.
Google Pixel 9a launch date just tipped — here’s what we know
Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Pixel Watch 3
What to expect from Google in 2025 — Pixel 10, Android 16, Pixel Watch 4 and more
Pixel 10 Pro concept video
Pixel 10 Pro concept video imagines crazy camera redesign
Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a specs just fully leaked ahead of iPhone 16E launch
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL review.
Google Pixel 11 Pro leaks on the day Samsung set to unveil Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung Tri-fold phone concept image
Samsung tri-fold smartphone may be part of company’s 2025 release plans
Latest in Google Phones
Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a pre-orders could come with a free Google TV Streamer — what we know
The camera assembly on the Google Pixel 9
The latest Google Pixel update is breaking fingerprint scanners — but there may be a fix
Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a will have to fix one crucial thing to hold off its low-cost rivals
Google Pixel 5 review
Google Pixel 10 lineup leaked in new renderings — here's what they look like
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 8a: Biggest changes to expect
close-up on cameras in a leaked Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a rumors — what Google’s planning as the iPhone 16e and Nothing Phone 3a ramp up the pressure
Latest in News
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses
I love my Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses — but Zuckerberg's plan to create Oakley's my Dad would wear is kind of cringe
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti
I'm worried about the latest Nvidia RTX 5060 price leak — but one thing could change my mind
iPhone 16e review.
iPhone 16e is facing Bluetooth problems — here's what's going on
The PlayStation Portal on a counter with the start screen for Horizon Forbidden West
PlayStation Portal just got upgraded cloud streaming features — here’s what’s new
Google Pixel 9a render
Google Pixel 9a pre-orders could come with a free Google TV Streamer — what we know
Galaxy S25 Ultra cameras
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra could feature a camera upgrade we haven't seen since the Galaxy S10