Google invites 'Superfans' to test upcoming Pixel phones early - here's how they'll be chosen

Alphabet Inc. ‘s Google is offering its most devoted Pixel followers a rare opportunity to test upcoming devices before they’re released to the public. Members of the company’s exclusive “Superfans” community have been invited to apply for early access to future Pixel hardware, in what Google calls the “Trusted Tester Program.” How will these ‘Superfans’ be chosen? In a move rarely seen from a company of Google’s scale, the tech giant is allowing a select group of consumers to handle and provide feedback on unreleased smartphones. According to documents reviewed by Bloomberg News, the program will select just 15 participants from the applicant pool. Those selected must sign a non-disclosure agreement and agree to hide the test units in protective cases provided by Google. The contest asks applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and enthusiasm for Pixel devices, and to share ideas for improving Google’s hardware and software experience. Strict secrecy and limited access Consumer technology firms sometimes conduct small-scale testing programs for unreleased products, but such initiatives are typically kept internal. For Google, extending this privilege to fans of the Pixel brand is a notable shift in strategy. Although the exact testing timeline has not been disclosed, Google has historically launched its new Pixel models around August. This suggests that the beta testing phase could start as early as spring 2026. Google allows a select group of consumers to handle and provide feedback on unreleased smartphones. According to documents reviewed by Bloomberg News, the program will select just 15 participants from the applicant pool. Looking ahead to Pixel 11 and beyond The Pixel series could be approaching a significant design overhaul. Google’s head of hardware design, Ivy Ross, revealed last year that the company revisits its design language every two to three years. The current Pixel 10, launched in August 2025, remains visually similar to its predecessor, implying that a major redesign could come with future models. Ross also noted that Google was finalizing its 2026 lineup at the time of her interview and had already begun planning for 2027 hardware. Managing leaks and maintaining buzz The Trusted Tester program may also serve a secondary purpose, helping Google control the narrative surrounding its upcoming devices. The company has struggled to avoid early leaks in recent years, with unofficial renders and hands-on images of new Pixel phones appearing months before their launch. (With input from Bloomberg)