The Google Pixel Fold wasn’t Google’s first foray into creating a foldable phone. In fact, they had a prototype ready a year before the Pixel Fold hit the market, but it didn’t meet their quality standards and was ultimately scrapped.

Recently, leaked photos of this canceled Pixel foldable, codenamed “pipit,” have surfaced, giving us a glimpse into what could have been. The design of “pipit” closely resembles the released Pixel Fold, featuring the same unique aspect ratio, frame, hinge, and matte back glass. The main difference lies in the camera bar – “pipit” boasts a seamless glass bar akin to the Pixel 6, while the Pixel Fold sports a smaller metal camera island similar to the Pixel 7 Pro.

This “pipit” prototype unexpectedly appeared on the market with someone looking to sell it. After sparking curiosity online, it was eventually identified, revealing low-quality pictures of this lost piece of Google’s history.

The specs on the “pipit” prototype indicate that it was set to feature first-generation Tensor with Exynos Modem 5123 and a Sony IMX363 camera (introduced on Pixel 3). It would have had downgraded sensors and lacked a telephoto lens. The outer display would have been slightly smaller than the Pixel Fold with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,100 pixels. However, the inner display would have remained unchanged from what we see on today’s Pixel Fold.

As for why “pipit” was ultimately canceled remains somewhat unclear. Speculation suggests that its potential release alongside the Pixel 6a and a shelved Pixel Tablet at Google I/O 2022 may have played a role. With Android 12L facing stability issues upon launch alongside the Pixel 6 series, it is possible that Google opted to delay both tablet and foldable releases to ensure software stability and make necessary hardware adjustments.

Despite its cancellation, “pipit” was not without merit. Many Google employees reportedly used prototype units as their daily devices, contributing to future iterations like the first-gen Pixel Fold.

Reflecting on seeing the familiar Pixel 6 camera visor on an early foldable prototype stirs up nostalgia for that form factor and heightens anticipation for what’s next with the upcoming Pixel Fold 2. Thankfully, we won’t have to wait too long as August is just around the corner.