Pixel 10 could make one of the most annoying display issues disappear

The Pixel 10 series is still a ways off, but one long-overdue upgrade might finally be on the way. For the first time, Google is hinting at improvements to the Pixel's PWM dimming rate, which could make a big difference for users sensitive to screen flicker.

According to a new report, Google is working on improving PWM dimming rates, with changes likely debuting on the Pixel 10.

If you've never heard of PWM (pulse-width modulation), you are probably not alone – but it plays a key role in how OLED displays control brightness. PWM rapidly turns pixels on and off to simulate lower brightness levels, but low flicker rates can cause eye strain or even headaches in some people. Simply put, the higher the PWM rate, the better it is for your eyes.

The Pixel 9 series currently uses a 240Hz PWM dimming rate. By comparison, Samsung's Galaxy S25 bumps things up to around 492Hz, which still isn't ideal but definitely a step ahead.

Meanwhile, Honor is one of the leaders on this front: the Magic 6 Pro, for example, features a high 4,320Hz PWM dimming rate when brightness drops below 30%, making it much easier on the eyes. That said, once you go above 30%, it drops back to just around 360Hz.

However, a recent Google statement suggests that a change is coming to future Pixel phone displays.