Google Pixel Fold: Android 12L beta code reportedly hints at a design more similar to Oppo Find N

For most of 2021, Google was widely rumored to announce its first foldable Pixel phone last year. While that did not pan out, the Android 12L beta updates were found to contain codes making references to the device dubbed by many as the Pixel Fold.

Google has been rumored to be developing foldable phones, with reported codenames “Passport” and “Pipit.” And 9To5Google reports that the Android 12L beta 2 update that was released earlier this week includes animations with codes that mention “Pipit.” The said animations are then speculated to reveal the possible design or layout of the Pixel Fold.

The leaked animation suggests the Pixel Fold, codenamed Pipit, would have two displays, including an external screen to be used when the device is folded and a wider main display usable when it is unfolded. However, the images suggest its dimensions would be closer to the appearance of the Oppo Find N instead of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold.

While similar in design layout, the Oppo Find N’s height is shorter than the Galaxy Z Fold 3. Note that the Find N’s main screen measures 7.1 inches with an 18:9 ratio, while the Z Fold 4’s inner display is 7.6 inches with a 25:9 ratio. And the same report noted that, based on using Oppo’s foldable device, this design is more favorable because its aspect ratio allows app UI to scale better when they are used in unfolded mode.

However, the animations in the Android 12L code are only meant for video guides so they do not show the complete design of the rumored Pixel Fold. But the leaks show the SIM card tray could be placed at the bottom of the device, while the volume control buttons could be located on the right side.

Considering these animations are included in the penultimate beta version of Android 12L, it suggests that Google is still working on its own foldable Pixel device. But it is also possible that some details in the leaked animations could change along the way, so tech fans are still advised to take them with a grain of salt until Google officially unveils the Pixel Fold.

Photo by Thai Nguyen on Unsplash