Samsung is undeniably the largest foldable phone manufacturer, but it's not the only OEM to utilize this incredible new foldable display technology for commercial mobile devices. A handful of rivals from China have released their first foldable phones to compete in the emerging market, and Google may be working on a foldable device of its own.
The mysterious Google foldable phone has been rumored for a few months now, but back in November, word on the street was that Google had shelved its so-called Pixel Fold plans indefinitely. Since then, however, other bits of information have cropped up to suggest otherwise. Namely that Google hasn't given up on its first foldable device yet, and continues developing its first device in this category.
According to a fresh rumor from 9to5Google citing “a source that has proven knowledgeable about Google's Pixel plans,” Google kept working on developing its first foldable phone under the working brand name “Pixel Notepad.”
Google Pixel Notepad could borrow from the Oppo Find N and cost less than the Galaxy Z Fold 3
Rather than trying to emulate Samsung's Galaxy Fold formula, Google is reportedly drawing more inspiration from the Oppo Find N to create its first foldable device, i.e., the Pixel Notepad.
The Oppo Find N in itself is inspired by the Galaxy Z Fold 3, though it has wider screens and a less narrow aspect ratio. According to the rumors, Google's Pixel Notepad could have a similar form factor, though it remains to be seen if Google will acquire foldable panels from Samsung Display or another manufacturer.
And since the Google Pixel Notepad might take after the Oppo Find N, the rumor also mentions that the Google Pixel Notepad could be cheaper than the Galaxy Z Fold 3. The latter Samsung phone debuted in August for $1,799.
It's worth noting that Google could end up using a different name for its first foldable phone at launch. For now, the device is referred to as the “Notepad” behind closed doors, but it also used to be called the “Logbook,” so the naming scheme remains subject to change.
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