When Google revealed its new Pixel 10 Pro Fold back in August, most people were impressed by its sleek look – but today, as it officially hits the shelves, Google has offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at the engineering that made it possible. 
The highlight? A gearless hinge that breaks away from the conventions of typical foldable phone designs.
Claude Zellweger, who leads Google’s Pixel industrial design team, described the Pixel 10 Pro Fold as a product of bold experimentation. Instead of relying on gears to manage the opening and closing mechanism – as nearly every other foldable does – Google chose a simpler yet riskier path: a gearless hinge system. According to Zellweger, gears tend to accumulate dust and micro debris over time, which can lead to friction, wear, and that annoying ‘grind’ that ruins the premium folding experience. By removing gears entirely, the Pixel Fold’s hinge aims for a smoother, more durable feel, maintaining that buttery resistance even after thousands of folds.
The approach also complements what Google calls its “aggressive dimensions” – a form factor engineered for pro-level performance without compromising portability. While some users argue about whether the phone’s Tensor G5 chip justifies the price tag, the internal consensus at Google seems to be that reliability and longevity are worth more than flashy specs. The design philosophy echoes Google’s broader Pixel ethos: build devices that last and feel great in hand, even if it means going against traditional engineering comfort zones.
It’s not just about mechanics – it’s about redefining what makes a foldable ‘pro’. By focusing on seamless function rather than complex gear assemblies, Google might just have set a new standard for premium folding smartphones.
2 comments
They should fix the Pixel bugs before bragging about hinges tbh, every phone feels like beta test rn
All that engineering and still ppl say it’s entry level lol, Tensor G5 is not low end, just not flashy like Snapdragon