Google introduced a new series of Pixel smartphones earlier this month.

Tech giant Google is under fire after pressuring tech influencers to promote the new Pixel mobile devices over rival devices, according to a report in New York PostIf they did not agree, they risked being excluded from the program that gave them early access to the devices.

The developers were invited to become members of the company’s “Team Pixel” program, which gives them early access to the devices before the general public. Notably, Google unveiled a new line of Pixel smartphones earlier this month, with the aim of improving their integration with AI tools.

According to screenshots that went viral online, influencers who opt into the program “acknowledge that they will be expected to showcase the Google Pixel device instead of competitor mobile devices.” It goes on to say, “Please note that if it is found that other brands are being favored over the Pixel, we may have to terminate the business relationship between the brand and the creator.”

And here… we go.
Leaked Screenshot https://t.co/uoFxQ6cwOtpic.twitter.com/nWwA6AumAS

— Mark’s Tech📱 Tech Reviews – Tech News (@Marks_Tech) 15 August 2024

Digital creators did not like this new clause, which they viewed as an attempt by the company to gain positive reviews under the guise of sponsored content.

Analyst Max Weinbach, a former member of Team Pixel, called the provision a “new thing” this year.

In protest, tech critic Adam Matlock announced he was “officially retiring from Team Pixel.” “It was a good time, but the program no longer aligns with my ethics and is no longer in the best interest of my channel and the content I provide to my viewers,” he said on X.

Another tech critic, Marques Brownlee, who is not part of the Pixel team, said: “It’s pretty frustrating for people who just want to write reviews. My advice: if you’re a tech critic, never sign up for something where you prefer one or the other. That’s just not a good, objective move if you’re trying to give an objective review.”

A Google spokesperson said in a statement to The Verge that the program is different and does not have the same requirements as Pixel reporting. “#TeamPixel is a standalone program, separate from our press and creator review programs.”

Notably, Google and PR agency 1000heads collaborated on the Team Pixel campaign. To comply with federal disclosure rules, participants must tag their submissions with “#teampixel” or “#giftfromgoogle.” “The goal of #TeamPixel is to get Pixel devices into the hands of content creators, not the press and tech critics. We missed the mark with this new wording that appeared on the #TeamPixel form yesterday and it has been removed,” they said.