Since the launch of the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro series of smartphones, its users have been constantly reporting issues and glitches that required a fix.

Over the months, Google sent the solution to many of the reported problems through updates. However, there are still some that have reportedly been around for a while.

The display or screen flickering issue is one of the most recurring complaints from Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro users. In the past, this problem occurred when pressing the power button.

Reports about the Google Pixel 6 display flickering issue keep coming up (1, 2, 3, 4), but this time the issue is related to when the screen refresh rate is switching between 60Hz and 90Hz.

Display flickering on Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro when switching from 60Hz to 90Hz

Some Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro users are facing the glitch described above when the system automatically switches between 90Hz and 60Hz screen refresh rate (and vice versa).

Pixel 6 screen flickers when transitioning between 60Hz and 90Hz

In dark mode on dark gray backgrounds there is a persistent but noticeable slight flicker every time the refresh rate transitions between 60Hz and 90Hz on my new Pixel 6. Fixing the rate at 60Hz or 90Hz eradicates the issue. Seeing as certain things such as tracking the phone Backup notification progress indicator process can cause refresh to yo-yo back and forth regularly this is very distracting at times.
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Also, the display flickering issue on Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro is accompanied by color shifting (a color difference in screen) in some cases.

Pixel 6 flickers slightly as the display refresh rate adjusts from 60 to 90hz

I’ve noticed the display on my Pixel 6 flickers slightly as the display refresh rate adjusts from 60hz to 90hz and vice versa. Turning smooth display off prevents the issue, as does forcing 90hz in developer options. It is more noticeable with dark mode activated. I’m assuming this is a similar issue that Android 11 created on the Pixel 4.

Furtheremore they are color difference in screen.
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Reports through the official Google issue tracker confirm the bug was still present even after the January update

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A potential workaround to mitigate the issue

Users affected by the glitch discovered a workaround that strengthens the theory that the cause is the change between the refresh rates of the screen.

If the user wants to maintain 90Hz on screen without facing the bug, it is recommended to enable the ‘Force peak refresh rate’ option located in the ‘Dev options’ section of the system settings.

[P6]Slight screen flicker/color change when refresh rate changes

Hi! Is anyone else experiencing a slight screen flicker/color change when the display clocks down from 90Hz to 60Hz? It is especially apparent in areas with darker colors. The entire color palate shifts into a slightly more greenish tint.

If I turn on “Force peak refresh rate” in Dev options the problem goes away.
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However, the above can have negative consequences on battery life. After all, the screen will always maintain a minimum refresh rate of 90Hz.

On the other hand, if you’re concerned with battery life, consider disabling the high refresh rate option from the system settings. This will keep the screen always at 60Hz.

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Google has started rolling out the February update for its Pixel phones, including the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. However, it’s not yet known if it fixes the issues described above.

If you are a Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro user and you are facing the display flickering, try to install the update. You can share in the comments if the issue is still present (or any other comment about the update).

NOTE: You can also check the bugs/issues tracker dedicated to the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro.

Featured Image: Google

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Jean Leon
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A tech enthusiast since ever. I like to always be up to date on the latest news in the industry and write about it. Twitter: @jean_ERdC

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