Google confirms Pixel 9 Pro Fold incompatibility with official wireless charging accessories thanks to curious design

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is akin to a volte-face for Google's nascent foldable division. In fact, such are the differences between the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and the Pixel Fold that the former has been compared more against the OnePlus Open (curr. $1,399.99 on Amazon) in terms of design than its direct predecessor. Incidentally, it turns out the sudden change in position from Google is more than skin deep.

Specifically, Google has now confirmed that its latest foldable is incompatible with its official wireless chargers. Inexplicably, it has designed the Pixel 9 Pro Fold in such a way as to ensure its wireless charging coil will not align correctly with the Pixel Stand Gen 1 or Gen 2. In a forum post, the company clarifies:

[The] Pixel 9 Pro Fold doesn't support the Pixel Stand but it supports many other wireless chargers. The position of the charging coil for Pixel 9 Pro Fold isn't perfectly centred compared to previous Pixel phones. This might make it difficult for you to charge your phone wirelessly. When you use another wireless charger, adjust the position of your phone to get it to charge. To confirm if it's aligned correctly, check the charging indicator on your phone.

In fairness to Google, it released these accessories some years ago with no commitment to how long they would be supported. With that being said, the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL support both Pixel Stand versions. Hence, it seems like Google continues to treat its foldables as an after though, despite now bringing them into its mainline flagship smartphone series.