The Google Team Pixel program, which is invitation-only, offers early access to Pixel smartphones for influencers. Recently, a stipulation prohibiting the use of other brands was introduced but was removed following public backlash.
The current agreement regarding the Pixel 9 states that Google expects Team Pixel participants to showcase Google Pixel devices over any others. Should it be found that other brands are favored, Google will terminate the relationship.
Google's Communications Manager, Kayla Geer, told The Verge that Team Pixel is a separate initiative distinct from press and review programs. The aim of Team Pixel is to provide Pixel devices to content creators rather than to the media and tech reviewers.
“We did not notice this new language that appeared in the Team Pixel program yesterday, and it has since been removed.”
The situation has created confusion online—many assumed that such conditions applied to all product reviewers. However, this is not the case. The official review program for Google Pixel does not have similar terms that could conflict with the ethics of many publications.
So, what exactly is Team Pixel? Officially, it is a PR initiative by the agency 1000heads, which distributes early versions of devices to influencers as brand ambassadors. Although Google collaborates with 1000heads, it does not directly manage the program, which is markedly different from its review policies. Journalists in the official review program often receive product descriptions and embargoed items prior to or during launch events. In contrast, Team Pixel members receive devices shortly after launch but before public release—in exchange for social media coverage. For smaller creators, this can be a significant advantage in accessing new smartphones.
YouTube creator Adam Metlock from TechOdyssey shares that he joined the Team Pixel program five years ago because of the convenience of receiving new Pixel smartphones in advance. He notes that such stipulations did not exist previously. He has now recorded a video announcing his departure from the program.
Renowned tech reviewer Marques Brownlee published a video stating that he does not participate in the Team Pixel program and is not obliged to adhere to such conditions.
From the outside of #TeamPixel, looking in: pic.twitter.com/a3BWeEqQvv
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) August 16, 2024
YouTuber Kevin Nether from The Tech Ninja also mentioned that this condition prompted him to leave the Team Pixel program. "As someone who makes a living analyzing technology, I work with many brands. Being cornered into using one product doesn't work for me, and I don't want to participate in that."
Thus, it should not be assumed that all bloggers and publications are biased regarding Google Pixel. External relationships outside of the Team Pixel program do not have such requirements, and the program itself has removed the controversial new provision. Bloggers who found these terms unacceptable are departing from the program.
Sources: The Verge, Android Police
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