Google's terms restricted Influencers from comparing Pixel with rival brands
Google has come under fire for its promotional strategy surrounding the Pixel 9 series. The tech giant's exclusive Team Pixel program, which provides early access to Pixel products for influencers, has been criticized for its restrictive terms. These terms prohibit participants from featuring Pixel products alongside rival brands, and threaten expulsion if a preference is shown for competing phones.
Team Pixel agreement sparks controversy
The Verge has independently verified screenshots of the controversial clause in this year's Team Pixel agreement, which several influencers started posting on X and Threads yesterday. The clause states that participants are, "expected to feature the Google Pixel device in place of any competitor mobile devices." It further warns that "if it appears other brands are being preferred over the Pixel, we will need to cease the relationship between the brand and the creator."
Google clarifies purpose of program
In response to the controversy, Google's communications manager Kayla Geier clarified that the Team Pixel program is separate from its press and creator reviews programs. "The goal of #TeamPixel is to get Pixel devices into the hands of content creators, not press and tech reviewers." She admitted that they "missed the mark with this new language" in the form and it has since been removed.
A platform for influencers and superfans
The Team Pixel program is managed by PR agency 1000heads and aims to distribute early units of Pixel devices to influencers and superfans, acting as brand ambassadors. Unlike Google's official review program, which often offers products under embargo before or during an event, Team Pixel participants get the devices shortly after launch but before public release in exchange for some social media coverage.
Influencers react to new terms
Adam Matlock, a tech reviewer on YouTube, expressed that the new Team Pixel terms seem aggressive in a way that many found uncomfortable. He has since quit the program due to these terms. Another YouTuber, Kevin Nether who runs The Tech Ninja channel, also left the program stating, "As someone who reviews technology for a living, I work with many brands. To be cornered into using one product — that doesn't work for me."
