Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission.Learn more.
Google to fix Pixel 4’s 90Hz display issue in the coming weeks (Updated)
August 17, 2025
Update: August 05, 2025 at 3:12 p.m. ET:Google has heard us loud and clear. In an email toAndroid Authority, a Google spokesperson elaborated on the Pixel 4’s 90Hz refresh rate issue and what it will do to address it. In the coming weeks, the company will roll out a software update that will enable the 90Hz display mode to be activated in more brightness conditions.
We are not sure exactly when the Pixel 4 will receive its update, but we will be sure to report back when we have a more detailed timeline.
Original article: June 06, 2025 at 7:04 a.m. ET:TheGoogle Pixel 4is one of several smartphones in recent years to offer a higher display refresh rate. This enables faster frame-rates in supported games, as well as smoother scrolling in system menus and other apps.
But Google is increasing the refresh rate to 90Hz when the Pixel 4’s screen brightness hits 75% or higher, according to redditorOrganicNebulaandXDA‘s Mishaal Rahman. Dip below 75% brightness, and the new flagship’s refresh rate is pegged at a more traditional 60Hz. We’ve also been able to replicate this behavior with our ownPixel 4units.
This is an interesting discovery and might just be the cause of reduced battery life reported by some reviewers (aside from the smaller than average battery). After all, high screen brightness already results in increased power consumption. Couple the higher brightness with a higher refresh rate, and it definitely seems like a recipe for much shorter endurance.
It’s possible that this is a bid by Google to save power, but tying the refresh rate to screen brightness could be a polarizing move. For example, someone sitting indoors when the screen brightness is low might want the higher refresh rate nonetheless. Fortunately, you can force either refresh rate by going into the phone’s developer options. So if you want to stick to 60Hz with a bright screen, that’s possible too.
This seems like a Google-specific behavior for now, as ourOnePlus 7Tdevice doesn’t change the refresh rate based on screen brightness. In any event, we’ve contacted Google to find out more about this behavior and will update the article if/when they get back to us.
Thank you for being part of our community. Read ourComment Policybefore posting.
