Any device with any component that slides/flips/folds/moves is prone to failure simply due to the movement.

Well sure. Nowhere in my comment did I say that the device is meant to be used forever. For me, I don't mind the compromises for some newer tech. I'm in the position where I can finally get fun tech now. Prior to this, the average length of time I had a phone was 4-5years, but I only had low end models. I really don't think that compromising with a 3-4 year projected usage time for folding phones is all that odd. It depends on what you want in a device. OP is looking for something new, presumably, hence asking the question.

I agree about the design language of the Pixel tbh. I've always found it to be butt ugly compared to a majority of the other phones out there. The camera design is just kind of unpleasant imo. That being said, I've been looking into buying an older flagship Pixel to gift to my mom. My research shows that for whatever reason, Pixels are the only phone out there that seem to do well capturing subjects that move a ton (toddlers, pets, etc.). Not sure why most other brands seem to be a blurry mess with the slightest movement.