MKBHD Criticizes Google’s Influencer Program for Favoring Pixel Phones

Marques Brownlee (also known as MKBHD), a popular YouTuber, has publicly criticized the Team Pixel program for compelling influencers to feature the Pixel over other competing products.

Like many tech companies, Google also sends out early samples of its products to reviewers and journalists before launch. However, unlike other companies, Google has its own unique approach to ensuring that its products receive positive reviews from the beginning.

Google has a program called Team Pixel which provides early samples of their newest devices, including the Pixel 9, to influencers and loyal fans.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold Lifestyle image — Google

Despite this, influencers who are part of the program are prohibited from promoting Pixel products alongside those of competitors. If they choose to promote other phones, they may be removed from the program. It should be noted that Google’s review program for journalists and tech reviewers operates separately from Team Pixel.

MKBHD addressed the issue surrounding Team Pixel and stated that the positive posts about the Pixel, which are part of the program, can easily be mistaken for reviews. He clarified that the reviews program is completely separate and it can be difficult for regular people to distinguish between the two.

From the outside of #TeamPixel, looking in: pic.twitter.com/a3BWeEqQvv

— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) August 16, 2024

According to him, it can be quite frustrating for individuals who are solely focused on reviewing products. As someone who reviews technology, his recommendation is to avoid joining anything that may sway one’s judgment towards a certain product.

According to The Verge, the Team Pixel program has recently implemented stricter guidelines in favor of promoting Pixels. Before, influencers were only required to include a #TeamPixel or #GiftfromGoogle hashtag. However, this change has caused discontent among members of the program, and some have even chosen to leave.

“After much consideration, I have decided to step down from Team Pixel. While it has been a great experience, I feel that the program no longer aligns with my personal ethics or the best interests of my channel and its content for my audience. I have formally notified them of my resignation via email today,”stated Adam Matlock, a tech reviewer on his YouTube channel TechOdyssey.

YouTuber Kevin Nether, known for his channel The Tech Ninja, confirmed on his Twitter account (TechNinjaSpeaks) that he will no longer be collaborating with Team Pixel after this year.