Nexus 6P: great device, harsh screen

Every few years Google works closely with a manufacturer to produce a device that provides a user experience exactly as Google intended.  Launched in late 2015 as a joint venture between Google and Huawei , the Google Nexus 6P is arguably the best Android smartphone on the market but is tragically a poor choice for those sensitive to flicker or blue light. Today we review the North American variant, model H1511. FLICKER Unfortunately, the Nexus 6P utilizes flicker across it’s entire range of brightness.  While the depth of the flicker isn’t as bad as some other devices, the relatively low frequency of 240Hz … Continue reading Nexus 6P: great device, harsh screen

Nexus 7 (2013) Review: An Introduction to PWM Flicker

Despite three aging three years since its release, the Google Nexus 7 (2013) continues to be relevant as a well-performing tablet at a rock bottom price.  This tablet is still widely available for purchase new and second-hand at a reasonable cost.  The 2013 model can be distinguished from the 2012 model by the lack of silver-colored metal ridge around the circumference of the device. FLICKER Our measurements indicate the device uses pulse-width modulation (“PWM”) to modulate screen brightness.  PWM is a method in which power supplied to the backlight is cycled on and off at such a high frequency that … Continue reading Nexus 7 (2013) Review: An Introduction to PWM Flicker