Google to fix Pixel 4's 90Hz refresh-rate issue via update
What's the story
Google's Pixel 4, which has recently grabbed headlines for its insecure face unlock, and lack of complete RCS messaging, is back in the news for its not-so-smooth 90Hz display refresh rate. Multiple users have reported the erratic nature of the screen's refresh rate, which changes between 60Hz and 90Hz depending on conditions like the screen's brightness, ambient lighting, and so on. Here's more.
Concern
Pixel 4's screen refresh rate drops at 75% brightness
The Pixel 4 flagships feature a 'Smooth Display' feature wherein the 90Hz dynamic display refresh rate automatically adjusts to 60Hz depending on what's on the screen to preserve battery life. However, several Redditors have reported that the refresh rate drops if the screen brightness is set below 75%, preventing users from experiencing the smooth scrolling and fluid animations they get from high refresh rate.
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Ambient lighting also affects screen refresh rate
Some users have also revealed that the screen refresh rate may remain at 90Hz, even at lower brightness levels, if the ambient lighting is bright enough. Naturally, users are annoyed as they've paid top bucks for their devices and the performance is far from consistent.
Official word
Google has promised a software update to fix the issue
Now, Google said (via The Verge) in some situations like when the battery saver is turned on, or video recording at 24/30fps, or in "other brightness or ambient conditions", the refresh rate is set to 60Hz to preserve battery. The company noted that "we have previously planned updates that we'll roll out in the coming weeks that include enabling 90Hz in more brightness conditions."
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However, there is a temporary fix
While Google will eventually fix this dynamic screen refresh rate issue, you can toggle a setting by going to the developer options on your Pixel 4 handsets and enable the "Force 90Hz refresh rate" option to enable the highest refresh rate at all times.