The Future of Pixel Displays: Better PWM Dimming Rates on the Horizon?

As we eagerly await the release of the upcoming Pixel 10 series, rumors are swirling about potential display improvements. Specifically, Google is teasing better PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation) dimming rates, which could be a game-changer for users who experience eye strain or sickness due to the flashing effect of PWM.

What is PWM Dimming Rate?

For those unfamiliar, PWM is a technique used to control the brightness of OLED displays. It works by rapidly switching the display on and off to create the illusion of a specific brightness level. While effective, this “flashing” can cause eye strain and discomfort for some users. The higher the PWM dimming rate, the less noticeable this effect becomes.

Current State of PWM Dimming Rates

In recent years, we’ve seen a significant improvement in PWM dimming rates from various manufacturers. Brands like Honor have implemented rates in the thousands, while Samsung’s latest flagships boast a 492Hz PWM rate. In contrast, the Pixel 8 Pro’s PWM rate was a relatively low 246Hz.

Google’s Teasing of Better PWM Dimming Rates

According to Android Central, Google is aware of the PWM dimming rate issue and is investigating ways to improve it for PWM-sensitive users. While the company hasn’t explicitly confirmed the details, it’s likely that the Pixel 10 series will feature enhanced PWM dimming rates. Software updates are possible, but hardware changes are the most effective way to achieve this.

What to Expect from the Pixel 10 Series

While we don’t have concrete information on the exact PWM dimming rate of the Pixel 10 series, it’s clear that Google is committed to improving the display experience. We can expect to see more details emerge in the coming months, as the Pixel 10 series is expected to launch around August.

Actionable Insights

For those who experience eye strain or discomfort due to PWM, the upcoming Pixel 10 series may offer a significant improvement. If you’re in the market for a new smartphone, it’s worth keeping an eye on the PWM dimming rate of different models. Additionally, manufacturers like Motorola have implemented software settings to address PWM issues, so it’s possible that we may see similar solutions in the future.

Conclusion

The future of Pixel displays looks promising, with Google teasing better PWM dimming rates for the upcoming Pixel 10 series. While we await more concrete information, it’s clear that the company is committed to improving the display experience for its users. As we eagerly anticipate the release of the Pixel 10 series, we can expect to see more details emerge in the coming months.