Maybe the Google Pixel 2 XL is not the way to go after all...

There is a big difference between hardware and software expertise, and it seems that time and again when software companies decide to build their own hardware customers end up getting the short end of the stick. We saw this for example with Microsoft’s pervasive Skylake issues in their Surface range or Google’s spying Google Home Mini.

Google’s Pixel 2 range has not been immune to this issue, with the smaller Pixel 2 featuring a dated design, while the more popular and well-executed Pixel 2 XL now appearing to show pervasive screen problems.

Already accused of featuring muddly colours and grainy textures reminiscent of dust under the screen, the latest accusations are of rapid screen burn in for week-old devices.

That's some pretty wild OLED burn-in on the Pixel 2 XL after maybe 7 days of full-time use pic.twitter.com/EPJTs6D0Kg

— Alex Dobie (@alexdobie) October 22, 2017

First reported by Android Central’s Alex Dobie, the issue has now been confirmed by others and is particularly easy to see when the screen shows a grey background, where the navigation bar still shows up.

Google has now issued a statement saying they are investigating the issue:

The Pixel 2 XL screen has been designed with an advanced POLED technology, including QHD+ resolution, wide color gamut, and high contrast ratio for natural and beautiful colors and renderings. We put all of our products through extensive quality testing before launch and in the manufacturing of every unit. We are actively investigating this report.

Given the poor history of OS updates and support for older handsets, many have recommended Google’s Pixel range for those switching from Windows Mobile to Android.  However, with Google’s hardware shortcomings right from the opening gate, I suspect if you plan to keep your handset for a standard 2 year period users would be better advised to buy a mainstream premium handset such as a Samsung Galaxy S8 or Note 8 instead.

Via The Verge