Google Pixel 8 screen turning green? Here's what you should know

Update 18/07/24 11:29 am (IST): For users in unsupported countries, a product expert recommends using a VPN and connecting to a server based in a supported country, such as The Netherlands, to get in touch with Google support for the repair and replacement of the product. However, a product expert also advises users that there are slim chances that the replacement unit also has the same bug.

Update 25/06/24 5:00 pm (IST): Google launched an extended repair program for Pixel 8 to address display issues like vertical lines or flickering. This program covers repairs for three years after purchase, but only for qualifying devices. Google or an authorized repair partner will need to verify your phone’s eligibility based on its identifier and the specific display problem. Even if you don’t qualify for this program, you might still be covered under Google’s standard warranty.

Original article published on May 9, 2024 follows:

Google Pixel 8 users have been reporting an unusual and frustrating issue with the device’s display. Owners are complaining that the screen will randomly turn green, with some also seeing a pink line or portions of the display turning black. For a premium flagship phone that starts at $699, such glaring display defects are unacceptable – yet the problem appears to be more widespread than some isolated incidents. In my research, reports about the green screen problem on the Pixel 8 started popping up shortly after the device went on sale.

Despite there being several software updates since then, I’m still seeing users complaining about the problem often. Here’s an image highlighting the issue on the Pixel 8.

User theories about the cause

The cause of this display glitch remains unclear, with several speculative theories circulating online forums. Some claim Google support informed them it could be due to a buildup of static electricity somehow impacting the display hardware. Others believe a faulty software update pushed out by Google may be the culprit, though the company has not confirmed any such problematic patches.

Given the dearth of official information from Google, amateur “fixes” have emerged across Reddit, YouTube and other community platforms. Some suggest squeezing the bottom of the Pixel 8 to temporarily resolve the green tint, while others recommend performing a factory data reset. However, most of these DIY workarounds seem unreliable at best – and potentially risky at worst.

What “experts” recommend

On the official Pixel Phone Help Community, even the most knowledgeable product experts are steering users away from amateur troubleshooting. “There is no other way than reaching out to a Support Specialist and have them investigate,” writes one top product expert. “You will need to do this within a country where the phone is officially sold and a warranty claim can only be made within the country of purchase,” they added.

Another Pixel expert echoed this point: “Find a local reputable repair shop that has the expertise and resources to work on your phone. You may have to source parts from outside your country (e.g. from ifixit.com).”

Google’s limited troubleshooting advice

While Google has yet to offer an official statement or explanation for the green screen problems plaguing some Pixel 8 units, the company does provide some basic troubleshooting advice for Pixel phones with display problems. This includes:

• Restarting the phone.
• Checking for software updates.
• Removing the case to ensure it’s not obstructing the screen.
• Resetting to factory settings.

However, this generic guidance does not directly address the specific green tint issue many Pixel 8 owners are facing. And as the community experts note, more advanced troubleshooting should be avoided to prevent potential damage.

The safest path forward

For Pixel 8 users impacted by the green screen glitch, the prudent move appears to be making an appointment at an authorized Google service center for professional diagnosis and repair (if required). Trying to fix a potential hardware or software flaw at home through guesswork could exacerbate the issue, cause further damage, and potentially void the device warranty.

Until Google weighs in with a definitive explanation and official solution, Pixel 8 owners suffering from the green tint display problems may simply need to exercise patience – and keep their phone away from any amateur repair attempts. When it comes to such an expensive, flagship smartphone, sometimes it’s best to leave the troubleshooting to trained professionals.

Notably, it’s not always smooth sailing with customer service. You might find yourself in a similar situation to this Redditor who shared their disappointing experience.

While understandingly frustrating, getting issues sorted out through official channels is usually the best and safest path. As a Pixel 8 owner myself, I’m lucky enough to not experience this glitch (🤞), however, if I did, the service center would be my best bet.

What to do if your Pixel 8 screen turns green

While waiting for more clarity from Google, here are some steps you can take if you notice the screen on your Pixel 8 screen randomly turning green or showing lines.

• Restart the phone and check for software updates.
• Remove any cases or accessories.
• Avoid trying DIY fixes like squeezing the phone.
• Schedule an appointment at a certified repair center.
• Backup important data as a precaution.
• Explain the issue clearly to the technician.

With any luck, the green screen woes are just a temporary glitch that Google’s engineers can promptly address. But in the meantime, it’s critical you make the right move by trusting skilled repair professionals over random internet tips. After all, an improperly-fixed display could leave you truly green around the gills. That said, you can get in touch with Google support by heading here. I hope this article helped you understand the situation surrounding the green screen bug on the Pixel 8. The same can even apply to other Pixel devices or smartphones in general.