Pixel 10 Set to Address Eye Strain Concerns with Potential PWM Dimming Improvements

Pixel 10 Set to Address Eye Strain Concerns with Potential PWM Dimming Improvements
Photo Credits: 9to5Google

A potential issue plaguing Pixel displays – eye strain caused by Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) dimming – might finally be addressed, with Google hinting at improvements coming in future Pixel phones, likely beginning with the upcoming Pixel 10 series. For most of us, PWM dimming just *happens* in the background, a technical detail rarely considered. But for a significant number of users, the flickering inherent in this brightness control method can cause discomfort, even sickness.

Understanding PWM Dimming

PWM dimming is essentially a clever trick to make a screen appear dimmer. Instead of reducing the brightness of each pixel directly, the screen rapidly turns the pixel on and off. The faster this happens (the PWM rate, measured in Hertz – Hz), the less noticeable the flickering. The higher the PWM rate, the better, as it minimizes potential eye strain and other issues. Think of it like an old-fashioned light dimmer switch - it's not reducing the bulb's power, it's chopping the light on and off very quickly!

The Current Landscape & Pixel 8 Pro's Position

In recent years, other manufacturers have been pushing the boundaries of PWM rates. Honor, for example, has implemented rates reaching 3840Hz, even on their more affordable devices like the Honor 200 Pro. Samsung's latest flagships utilize a 492Hz rate, a significant improvement over time. However, the Pixel 8 Pro currently sits at a comparatively lower 246Hz. It's understandable why many Pixel users sensitive to PWM have been concerned—their experience wasn’t as smooth as that offered by competitors.

Google's Response: Acknowledgment and Future Plans

In a conversation with Android Central, specifically with Nick Sutrich, Google acknowledged the concerns. They’ve stated their teams are "aware and investigating" the impact of their displays on users sensitive to PWM. Perhaps even more encouragingly, they’ve indicated that “you can expect updates later this year”, strongly suggesting improvements will arrive with the Pixel 10 series. While updates *could* potentially be delivered via software, Google acknowledges that a true fix often requires hardware-level changes.

What to Expect with the Pixel 10

It's difficult to say exactly what Google has planned, and we'll need to test the new devices thoroughly when they are released. There's also the possibility of a software toggle, similar to what Motorola has implemented, to address the issue for certain users. But real improvements almost certainly require dedicated hardware upgrades

The Pixel 10 series is currently expected to launch around August, giving us a few months to wait for more concrete details.

The Core of the Issue: Flickering and Its Effects

The rapid blinking of the screen, inherent to PWM, doesn't bother everyone. But for those susceptible, it can lead to eye strain, headaches, and even nausea. It’s frustrating when a beautiful, vibrant OLED display inadvertently causes discomfort. Luckily, we are starting to see an industry-wide push towards higher PWM rates – a sign that manufacturers are listening to their customers.

Google Pixel 10: Launch Timeline and Potential Features

Given Google's historical timeline, the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro are likely to launch globally in August 2025. Early leaks and renders suggest the Pixel 10 Pro will maintain a similar design to the Pixel 9 Pro, with flat edges, a punch-hole camera, and the signature camera visor. A glossy frame is also rumored for the Pro model, contrasting with a matte finish on the standard Pixel 10.

Rumored Specifications: Pixel 10 Pro

  • Display: 6.3-inch AMOLED LTPO display with a 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness up to 3,000 nits
  • Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus 2
  • Processor: Tensor G5 chip (manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm process)
  • RAM: Up to 16GB
  • Camera: 50-megapixel main, 48-megapixel periscope telephoto, 48-megapixel ultrawide
  • Operating System: Android 16
  • Battery: Expected improvements in efficiency and faster charging.

Android 16 and the Pixel 10

Android 16 is currently in public beta, and its full release is potentially slated for June 3rd. This earlier-than-usual release timeline is excellent news for Pixel 10 owners, as they'll be among the first to experience the latest features and improvements, particularly focusing on Mobile Artificial Intelligence tools and Google’s Gemini. Having the latest software from the get-go, the Pixel 10 represents a turning point.

Google I/O 2025

Google’s I/O Developer Conference, happening May 20-21 this year, will likely showcase Android 16 and provide more insight into the Pixel 10 series. The conference is a key opportunity for Google to highlight its advancements in Android and how they will be integrated into its upcoming Pixel devices.