Google looking into burn-in issues on Pixel 2 XL
Google said Monday it is “actively investigating ” reports of its Pixel 2 XL smartphone experiencing problems with its touchscreen.
Multiple tech reviewers from sites including The Verge and Android Central have reported seeing what they believe is screen burn-in, a phenomenon where portions of the screen are permanently discolored.
In the case of the Pixel 2 XL, some users noted you can see faint images of the smartphone’s navigation buttons when viewing a gray background.
USA TODAY noticed display disparities from one Pixel 2 XL review unit to another, but was not able to replicate the burn-in problem. Reviewers noted the Pixel 2 XL display could be suffering from image retention, a simi- lar issue found in LCD and Plasma displays, that will usually fade over time.
In a statement, Google said it is “actively investigating ” the claims. “We put all of our products through extensive quality testing before launch and in the manufacturing of every unit.”
Burn-in is commonly found on flat screen TVs or computer monitors. When a screen displays burn-in, users can see faint images of words or icons on the display.
In most cases, burn-in happens on a display after owners have used their devices for several years. If burn-in is the confirmed issue with Google’s Pixel 2 XL smartphone, it would represent a much larger problem. And it comes at a bad time as Apple prepares to roll out its iPhone X smartphone next month.
Google launched its latest Pixel line this month, offering a potentially powerful rival to giants including Apple’s iPhone and Samsung’s Galaxy line.