Tech giant Google is facing criticism for allegedly pressuring influencers to prioritize its Pixel smartphones over competitor devices.
According to a report by the New York Post, the controversy arose after some digital creators were reportedly required to promote the new Pixel phones as a condition for remaining in the company's "Team Pixel" program, which grants them early access to Google's latest gadgets.
Google recently introduced a new line of Pixel smartphones aimed at enhancing integration with AI tools.
As part of their promotional efforts, influencers who joined the "Team Pixel" program were informed that they were expected to feature the Google Pixel devices instead of rival products. A clause in the program's agreement stated, "If it appears other brands are being preferred over the Pixel, we will need to cease the relationship between the brand and the creator."
This stipulation has sparked discontent among many digital creators, who see it as an attempt by Google to secure positive reviews under the guise of sponsored content. Analyst Max Weinbach, a former member of Team Pixel, noted that this requirement was a new addition this year.
In response to the clause, tech reviewer Adam Matlock publicly announced his decision to leave the Team Pixel program, stating that it no longer aligned with his ethics or the best interests of his channel and audience. Similarly, well-known tech reviewer Marques Brownlee, who is not affiliated with Team Pixel, advised fellow reviewers to avoid signing agreements that compromise their objectivity.
Google responded to the controversy by clarifying that the Team Pixel program is separate from its press and creator review programs and does not impose the same requirements for Pixel coverage. A Google spokesperson acknowledged that the language in the agreement was problematic and confirmed that it has since been removed.
The Team Pixel campaign, a collaboration between Google and the PR agency 1000heads, requires participants to use hashtags like "#teampixel" or "#giftfromgoogle" to comply with federal disclosure regulations.
Google stated that the goal of the program is to get Pixel devices into the hands of content creators, not to influence press and tech reviewers, and admitted that the new language in the agreement was a misstep that has now been corrected.