Recently, a bug has emerged in several Google Pixel models following the release of the March Feature Drop update. Users have taken to social media to express their frustration over flickering screens while streaming videos on apps like Netflix and YouTube. Although some have identified a potential workaround, it comes at the cost of reduced display quality. This article explores the issues reported by Pixel users and suggests possible solutions.
Just days after Google launched the March Pixel Feature Drop, which introduced AI-powered scam protection, users began reporting an annoying new bug. One Pixel 8 Pro owner shared their experience on Reddit, stating that while streaming Netflix post-update, the screen would inexplicably brighten and dim every few minutes, disrupting their viewing experience.
A Reddit user known as fantasticlain commented that they hadn’t experienced any issues prior to the latest update. Others echoed similar sentiments, placing blame on the March Feature Drop. Disabling the adaptive brightness setting didn’t resolve the issue, indicating that it isn’t the culprit.
Several Pixel users noted screen flickering issues during streaming on Netflix and YouTube, suggesting this isn’t limited to a single app. The flickering primarily occurs while watching videos, hinting at a broader issue affecting multiple models from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 9 series.
"It seems to be flickering or something based on other posts I’ve seen. I have it as well on my Pixel 9 unfortunately. I turned off smooth display and that made it go away. Thought it was just Netflix at first but it’s happened on YouTube as well." - Pixel user AttackHelicopter11
While one Pixel 9 owner found a workaround by disabling the Smooth Display setting, this came with the downside of losing the 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in a less fluid user experience. Turning off this feature means the display reverts to a traditional 60Hz refresh rate, which many users find jarring after experiencing the smoother scrolling of higher refresh rates.
Users generally agree that once accustomed to a 120Hz refresh rate, adjusting back to 60Hz is challenging. However, to eliminate flickering during video playback, users might need to temporarily disable Smooth Display until Google addresses the issue with an update.
The apps notably affected include Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and Disney+. This doesn't signify that the bug is confined to these platforms; rather, these were the apps users were engaged with when they noticed the flickering. Other apps may also be impacted without users realizing it.
Another Reddit user reported that after installing the March update on their Pixel 9 Pro XL, the display background appeared excessively dim, even when set to maximum brightness. Other users have voiced similar concerns, providing reassurance that they’re not alone in experiencing this issue.
With mounting complaints, Pixel users are eager for Google to roll out a fix that addresses these irritating bugs.
