Google is in the midst of releasing the Pixel 9 models to various markets, and during the embargo period, the company has sent out review units to various media outlets, content creators, journalists, and others to provide their impartial thoughts on the latest flagship series. However, when attempting to run some benchmark applications on any one of the devices, some users reported that they were unable to download the programs from the Play Store. This obstacle hints Google might be blocking access to these apps to prevent any flood of information on the internet that downplays the Tensor G4’s capabilities.
Sideloading the benchmark applications does not seem to fix the problem on the Pixel 9 family either
Currently, there are three popular benchmarking apps on the Google Play Store; Geekbench 6, PCMark 10, and 3DMark, with each program testing a different aspect of the Pixel 9. While we have seen through various leaks that the Tensor G4 is significantly slower than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Dimensity 9300+, and the A17 Pro, Google is adamant about not letting that information pour through. However, it would be best if you were reminded that this is not the first time the Mountain View firm has attempted this, as before the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro launch, Google was not allowing any benchmarking applications to be run during the embargo period.
Thankfully, at the time, those possessing the Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro could simply sideload their benchmark app of choice, and they would be off to the races. Now, Google has blocked this alternative route too, with @Cartidise showing evidence on X that even sideloading Geekbench AI introduced a compatibility error. While others seem to be experiencing the same issue, we have noticed a wave of performance statistics and comparisons written by leading publications, so the issue may be an isolated incident.
Ok, so Google has blocked Geekbench, PC Mark, & 3D Mark for the Pixel 9. As if we can’t sideload it ^_^ pic.twitter.com/L6RxeSFoFp
— Noah Cat (@Cartidise) August 21, 2024
Additionally, it makes little sense for Google to block benchmarking applications from being downloaded, as a company executive had previously admitted that the Tensor G4 was not designed to break any performance records but to improve the user experience and help tackle specific cases. We did report that the top-end Pixel 9 Pro XL throttles to 50 percent of its maximum performance when running a stress test, but that program was not included in the Geekbench 6, PCMark 10, or 3DMark list, meaning Google may be allowing some apps to be installed on these devices.
News Source: @Cartidise
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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