Google’s Pixel 9 Launch Raises Eyebrows Over Controversial Terms
If you assumed that Google would take a breather following the rollout of the new Pixel 9 models during this week’s Made By Google event, think again. A recent Threads post suggests that part of a registration form for receiving Pixel devices includes contentious language insisting that participants use Google’s products exclusively “in place of any competing mobile devices.” This stipulation implies a potential severance of ties between the creator and Google’s brand in case of non-compliance.
Clarifying the Confusion Around Team Pixel
The ensuing online discussions have clarified that this particular sign-up form was distributed to members within the Team Pixel program, which operates independently from media or journalist review initiatives. Engadget, being part of the press sector, did not encounter similar terms in our version of the sign-up process, nor have we seen anything akin to such conditions throughout our involvement with reviewing Google products. It’s important to state unequivocally that we would never consent to prerequisites demanding favorable reviews in exchange for product access.
A Quick Response from Google
In response to public outcry and confusion surrounding this policy, Google has issued a clarification indicating that an error had been made in wording. Kayla Geier, communications manager at Google, explained: “#TeamPixel is fundamentally distinct from our press and creator review programs. The primary aim of #TeamPixel is to engage content creators with Pixel devices rather than traditional tech reviewers or journalists. We misstepped with this newly introduced phrasing on the #TeamPixel application yesterday; it has now been retracted.”
The Future for Team Pixel Participants
As it stands, it’s still uncertain whether existing members of #TeamPixel will receive an updated agreement reflecting these changes and if those who rejected participation due to these requirements will be given another opportunity to enroll.
This article also features insights originally published on Engadget.
