Google faces backlash for pressuring tech-fluencers to promote Pixel 9 over competitors

Delhi: Google is facing backlash for pressuring tech influencers to promote the Pixel 9 over competitors, warning that failure to comply could endanger their partnerships. 

Influencers shared screenshots of a form requiring them to prioritise Pixel devices, which Google has since removed, admitting it was poorly worded. 

Kayla Geier from Google explained that the form was for the Team Pixel program, managed by PR agency 1000heads, and not for traditional reviews. 

Some influencers, including Kevin Nether and Adam Matlock, left the program due to its strict terms, while Arun Maini criticised Google on X for not being invited to the launch due to past critiques.