Google begins showing ads on Pixel phones
New advertisements appear on Pixels, here's how to disable them
1The era of ads on Pixels begins
Following the Pixel 11 series launch, Google started showing ads for new phones on older Pixel models. This marks a first for Pixel devices, though similar practices are common with brands like Samsung. The My Pixel app (formerly Pixel Tips) now features a 'Store' tab. Users report receiving ad notifications without granting any permissions, raising concerns about default opt-in settings.
2Where the ads come from
Ads primarily appear through the 'New products and offers' notification channel in the My Pixel app. The app still provides useful content like usage tips, account updates, and surveys. However, users report ad notifications even on factory-reset devices, suggesting ads are enabled by default. This implementation differs from Google's previous ad-free approach to Pixel software.
3How to disable the ads
Android's 9-year-old notification channels feature allows disabling ads without losing other functionalities. Navigate to Settings > Apps > My Pixel > Notifications and toggle off 'New products and offers'. This process takes just three steps and preserves useful notifications about new features and order updates. The granular control exemplifies Android's customization strengths.
4Industry parallels
Samsung's One UI has long included system ads, while Xiaomi and other Chinese manufacturers face similar criticisms. Pixels previously maintained a clean reputation in this regard. 2025 surveys show 78% of premium smartphone users dislike device ads. Google's move appears to test user loyalty boundaries while capitalizing on its expanding hardware ecosystem.
5User backlash
Pixel user forums show significant outrage over the ad implementation. Consumers feel the 'bloatware-free experience' promise has been compromised. Ads on $600+ devices particularly frustrate users. Some report this may influence future purchasing decisions, though the easy opt-out option mitigates some frustration. The situation highlights growing tension between monetization and premium user expectations.
6Google's advertising strategy
Google has significantly expanded its hardware portfolio (Pixelbook, Fitbit, Pixel Buds). Q2 2026 reports show 34% growth in hardware division revenue. Ads likely aim to promote this expanding product line. However, analysts warn that premium segment users have low ad tolerance. The long-term impact on brand equity remains uncertain as Google balances monetization with user experience.
7Technical details
Ad notifications utilize Google's Firebase Cloud Messaging infrastructure. The system can deliver them as 'service notifications' regardless of user preferences. Even Android 14's enhanced notification permissions don't fully block these ads. Experts suggest Google uses system-level privileges for its own apps, which appears contradictory to Android's open ecosystem principles.
8Why it matters
This development represents another example of the growing 'post-purchase revenue' trend in consumer electronics. Ads on premium devices signal a potential paradigm shift in user experience expectations. Google's move may set precedents for other manufacturers. User reactions and sales figures will provide crucial data points for the industry's future direction regarding hardware monetization strategies.
Original article: Android Authority — Google Pixel telefonlarda reklam göstermeye başladı