Don’t Buy a Pixel 2 XL Until Google Fixes Display Issues
If you’re contemplating the Pixel 2 XL for the next smartphone update, you might think twice, or at least delay your decision for a few days. Earlier versions of the device may have had a hardware defect that permanently damaged the screen.
Since the Pixel 2 XL first released last week, several people have reported “burnout” cases. This means the display could be permanently damaged in areas where a repetitive image (such as Android navigation buttons) discolors the screen.
On Sunday, Google confirmed that it is looking into display issues with the Pixel 2 XL in a statement to The Verge :
The Pixel 2 XL screen has been designed with advanced POLED technology including QHD + resolution, wide color gamut and high contrast ratio for natural and beautiful colors and visuals. We subject all of our products to rigorous quality testing before launching and manufacturing each unit. We are actively studying this report.
Pixel 2 XL Display Burnout Essentials
Burn-in is not uncommon with modern displays, but it usually takes months or even years for even the slightest discoloration to appear. So the fact that people are already seeing this on the Pixel 2 XL is definitely not a good sign.
Here’s what burn-in looks like on the Pixel 2 XL, courtesy of Android Central Executive Editor Alex Dobie. (Look for faint navigation icons at the bottom of what should be a simple gray screen.)
The problem might actually be afterimage, which would be easier to fix, but if burn-in is the culprit, Google may need to replace a ton of devices or even withdraw the Pixel 2 XL entirely. For now, you should probably wait to see what the company reveals, or just opt for the smaller Pixel 2 instead (which doesn’t seem to have any major issues).