Google Pixel 10 Teased to Feature High-Frequency PWM Dimming to Combat Eye Strain

Mountain View, CA April 30, 2025 — As Google gears up for the release of its next-generation Pixel 10 series, a key display upgrade has been unofficially teased—one that could address a growing concern among smartphone users: PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) dimming-related eye strain. A Google official recently acknowledged that the Pixel 10 may include improvements to its screen’s dimming technology, with potential to reduce headaches, migraines, and blurred vision caused by low-frequency PWM.

What Is PWM Dimming and Why Does It Matter?

Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) is a method used in OLED and pOLED displays to adjust screen brightness by flickering the display rapidly. While it provides efficient power consumption and consistent color output, low PWM frequencies—like the 240Hz PWM used in the Pixel 9 series—can cause eye strain and discomfort, especially for sensitive users.

Complaints about such side effects, including migraines and visual fatigue, have been increasingly reported across forums and tech communities. Responding to questions from AndroidCentral, a Google spokesperson confirmed that internal teams are “aware and investigating” PWM-related display issues and noted that users can expect improvements later this year, fueling speculation around Pixel 10 hardware upgrades.

What to Expect in Google Pixel 10 Display Upgrades

While details remain under wraps, here’s what is likely:

• Higher PWM dimming frequency: Possibly above 1,000Hz, aligning with standards adopted by Chinese OEMs

• Reduced eye fatigue and flicker at lower brightness levels

• Improved accessibility for users with visual or neurological sensitivities

Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and Oppo have already moved towards high-frequency PWM dimming. For instance:

• Xiaomi 15: 1920Hz PWM dimming

• Oppo Find X8 Pro: 2160Hz PWM dimming

• In contrast, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra still uses 492Hz—significantly lower than its Chinese rivals

The Pixel 10’s shift to a higher PWM rate could bring Google in line with these new industry standards, improving comfort and reducing health concerns tied to screen flicker.

Google Pixel 9a Display Recap

To understand the leap, consider the Pixel 9a, which features:

• 6.3-inch Actua pOLED display

• 1080 x 2424 resolution, 60Hz–120Hz adaptive refresh rate

• Peak brightness: 2700 nits

• PWM frequency: 240Hz (causing complaints from some users)

These specs, while competitive, fall short of current PWM best practices—especially at lower brightness levels where flicker is more noticeable.

User Health at the Forefront

This move, if confirmed, reflects a broader industry trend: prioritizing user wellness alongside performance. With more consumers using smartphones for long hours, eye comfort and screen health have become differentiating factors in flagship models.

Should Google implement high-frequency PWM dimming in the Pixel 10, it would be a significant usability improvement that addresses an often-overlooked area in smartphone design.