The undeveloped Google 2020 is just starting out to its new owners and there are already troubling complaints about the quality of the phone. These are not about some software problems that can be easily fixed by updating nor is it a display issue, at least not about the output or touch input. Instead, there is a more problematic gap between the phone’s screen and the metal frame that may or may not affect the phone’s water resistance.
Like many reports about physical defects, complaints about the Pixel 5 have been few and varied so far, probably because the Pixel 5 only started shipping in the first place. Such as Android Police noticedHowever, the number of reports is constantly increasing, raising concerns that it may be a more widespread problem.
The location of the gap between glass and metal is also not fixed but most of it appears to be on the side of the camera. This isn’t the first Google Pixel phone with a hole punch so it doesn’t seem like it still doesn’t know how to do it properly. Regardless of the cause, the implications for continuity are unfortunately not as small as the gap itself.
Naturally, any unintended opening would allow the liquid to pass through, which basically breaks the IP water resistance rating. But even if the water is not able to pass, the gap may still be a haven for dust and small particles. Ultimately, the gap may extend to the rest of the screen, worsening the separation.
Google has been silent so far about the complaints but is undoubtedly aware of them now. Even if you admit to factory flaws, you will likely claim that they only affect a small number of units. But with somewhat similar problem with Glass back of the Pixel 4 XL A few months ago, one might start to question Google’s quality assurance status for Pixel phones.
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