Google’s Pixel 10 display might come with a key upgrade that allows users to adjust the PWM dimming rate. This could be crucial for anyone who’s sensitive to flickering lights. If you’ve never really thought about PWM dimming before, chances are you’re not really susceptible to the effects that PWM flickering can cause. This is the case for me, as I’ve never really experienced any sort of sensitivity to light unless I already have a migraine, which can be a common side effect of those.
That being said, PWM flickering can be a problem for some users. Leading to eye strain and headaches even after light use of a device that has a display with this issue. In short, if you’re sensitive to PWM flickering, it can make it pretty impossible to use a device that has PWM flickering issues. Luckily, it seems like Google is trying to tackle this problem and may be working on adding a fix in its next mainline Pixel phone.
Google may have hinted at a PWM dimming fix in the Pixel 10
Google hasn’t actually spoken about this particular detail in an official announcement capacity. However, it does seem to have hinted that more details about PWM dimming adjustment are coming. In a recent report from Nick Sutrich over at Android Central, Sutrich says that Google is “aware of the issue and that updates on it can be expected later this year.”
That’s not a confirmation, but it is sort of a tease that Google is looking into the problem. Even if the problem doesn’t appear to impact the majority of users. It’s impacting enough of them that it’s been brought to Google’s attention. Who now appears to be looking into possible solutions.
What Google might do to fix this issue
There are a few approaches Google could take, although it’s worth reiterating that Google might not change anything at all with the Pixel 10 display. If it is trying to seriously tackle this issue, however, the most likely approach could be adding an option to reduce the amount of display flicker in the phone’s accessibility settings. Another possible option is to just use a faster PWM rate. Some phones use a PWM rate that sits well above the average on phones from Google, Samsung, and Apple. All of which generally sit between 240Hz and 480Hz. If Google increases this number, then it could get rid of the issue altogether. It’s not clear yet what Google’s plans are, but it has at least acknowledged the problem some users are having. And that’s better than just ignoring it.
Google is expected to launch the Pixel 10 series later this year. So, there may not be any concrete (I.E. official) information about it until later this Summer. Although Google may share some details about the upcoming phones at Google I/O next month.
