Club Benefits
You are now subscribed
Your newsletter sign-up was successful
Want to add more newsletters?
Daily (Mon-Sun)
Tom's Guide Daily
Sign up to get the latest updates on all of your favorite content! From cutting-edge tech news and the hottest streaming buzz to unbeatable deals on the best products and in-depth reviews, we’ve got you covered.
Weekly on Thursday
Tom's AI Guide
Be AI savvy with your weekly newsletter summing up all the biggest AI news you need to know. Plus, analysis from our AI editor and tips on how to use the latest AI tools!
Weekly on Friday
Tom's iGuide
Unlock the vast world of Apple news straight to your inbox. With coverage on everything from exciting product launches to essential software updates, this is your go-to source for the latest updates on all the best Apple content.
Weekly on Monday
Tom's Streaming Guide
Our weekly newsletter is expertly crafted to immerse you in the world of streaming. Stay updated on the latest releases and our top recommendations across your favorite streaming platforms.
Join the club
Get full access to premium articles, exclusive features and a growing list of member rewards.
Google is coming under fire after warning tech influencers their relationship with the brand would be terminated if they didn't agree to showcase the new Pixel 9 over competitors in their content.
Those in the Team Pixel influencer program were asked to “acknowledge that you are expected to feature the Google Pixel device in place of any competitor mobile devices," according to screenshots shared on X of the clause in this year’s Team Pixel agreement for the new Pixel phones, which was first spotted and verified by 9to5Google. Google unveiled its latest flagship lineup on Tuesday: the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold.
"Please note 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," the message continues.
And here ... we ....go. Leaked screenshot https://t.co/uoFxQ6cwOt pic.twitter.com/nWwA6AumASAugust 15, 2024
And to be clear, the Team Pixel influencer program is different from the review program for members of the press. At no point was Tom's Guide asked to agree to such stipulations when reviewing the new Pixel line-up.
Acknowledging the issue in a statement to Android Police and The Verge, Google Communications Manager Kayla Geier said the company "missed the mark" with these added stipulations, and it has removed the "new language" from its Team Pixel agreement terms:
"#TeamPixel is a distinct program, separate from our 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. We missed the mark with this new language that appeared in the #TeamPixel form yesterday, and it has been removed."
It's not clear whether Team Pixel members have gotten an updated agreement or whether those who declined based on the previously added language will get another chance to apply.
More from Tom's Guide
- The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL are overrated — this is the Pixel I'd buy
- Google Gemini Live launches for Android to challenge ChatGPT voice
- 5 ways Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold beats Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6
