The latest Pixel update is the March 2025 Feature Drop. It was released a few days ago and brought loads of interesting stuff. These include the March 2025 security patch that fixed over 40 security vulnerabilities. We can understand why many people have installed the update already, but things have not been good since.
There are reports that Google Pixel users are having a screen brightness issue. It happens so often and has become frustrating for many people.
Screen brightness drops to a low level during video playback
Pixel users on Reddit are complaining about the random screen brightness dimming. This happens mostly during video playback on Netflix, Prime Videos, YouTube, and other streaming channels. It usually happens for a few seconds before returning to normal.
The issue seems to affect the Pixel 6 series up to the latest Pixel 9 series. However, there isn’t any report of the problem on the Pixel Fold phones. There’s a theory that turning on subtitles triggers the screen brightness issues. However, we do not believe that as the experience is different for some people.
Of course, the problem does not affect all Pixel phones, but a large chunk of users experience the screen issue every 10 seconds. For some, it can take minutes, mostly during full-screen video playback.
How to resolve Pixel screen brightness issues
Unfortunately, you can not solve the problem by manually adjusting your screen brightness. Also, turning off adaptive brightness. However, you might temporarily fix the bug by modifying the display’s refresh rate.
Some people claimed the issue starts when the refresh rate is 120Hz. You can bring it down to 60Hz from Settings>>Display & Touch and toggle off “Smooth display.” Also, reduce it by switching on Battery Saver mode.
There are reports from users about their phone’s wallpaper being dim, and people notice that when using the Photos app as well. However, the reports are few, hinting it might only affect a small number of users.
Google has not said anything about a potential fix
So far, Google has not said anything on the issue. The company has yet to acknowledge the bug, but they might issue a statement soon. However, it depends on how many devices are affected. If more people start having the problem, it might prompt them to release a new update. Nevertheless, we expect a fix with the April 2025 security patch.
