The Google Pixel 10 series is reportedly in the works, with company representatives hinting at advancements in display technology expected to debut later this year. The Pixel 9 series, including the recently launched Pixel 9a, has garnered praise for its display quality, although it has faced criticism over issues related to pulse width modulation (PWM) dimming rates. These concerns are anticipated to be addressed in the upcoming Pixel 10 models.
Display Upgrades With Google Pixel 10
The Pixel 9a features a 6.3-inch Actua (pOLED) display, boasting a resolution of 1,080×2,424 pixels, a refresh rate between 60Hz and 120Hz, and a peak brightness of 2,700 nits. Pixel smartphones, alongside other leading brands like Apple and Samsung, employ PWM dimming technology to enhance display performance by modulating the light source, thereby creating the perception of varying brightness levels.
While PWM dimming can contribute to better color consistency and energy efficiency, displays with lower PWM dimming rates, such as the 240Hz rating found in the Pixel 9 models, have been linked to health issues like headaches, migraines, and blurred vision.
In response to inquiries from AndroidCentral regarding PWM dimming issues affecting Pixel devices, a Google official confirmed that the team’s awareness and investigation into the situation are underway. The spokesperson mentioned that users could anticipate updates later this year, hinting at potential fixes for this problem in the forthcoming Pixel 10 series, although specific device details were not disclosed.
Notably, several Chinese manufacturers have been adopting high-frequency screens to address similar PWM issues. For instance, the Xiaomi 15 features a PWM dimming rate of 1920Hz, while the Oppo Find X8 Pro utilizes a high-frequency PWM dimming technology of 2160Hz. By contrast, even the premium Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has a PWM rate of just 492Hz, which is significantly lower than its Chinese counterparts.
