Google’s $899 Pixel 11 can’t properly play Genshin Impact, and we’ve been here before

Google's Pixel 11 series has been marred by severe graphical issues, rendering popular mobile game Genshin Impact effectively unplayable. Wired reported on the problem while testing the Pixel 11 Pro, describing a purple screen that prevented normal gameplay, with additional users also reporting the issue to Google. For a flagship device starting at $899, this is a significant blow, especially when compared to Google's claims about the Tensor G6's power.

Every Pixel 11 model utilizes Google's new Tensor G6, which combines its CPU and AI hardware with a PowerVR GPU. A Reddit user contacted Genshin Impact support, who confirmed that PowerVR GPUs do not meet the game's minimum requirements. While Google describes the issue as an optimization issue, this sounds much more fixable. Google stated they are working directly with HoYoverse and expect a fix in an upcoming game update, though no release date has been confirmed yet.

This issue echoes similar problems Google faced with Pixel 10 phones, where months of GPU driver improvements were necessary. Despite Google's ability to run other demanding games like Zenless Zone Zero, the specific rendering corruption in Genshin Impact makes this a more serious problem than raw GPU performance. The leak also suggests Samsung may be preparing two different sizes for its next Ultra flagship, a decision that could significantly expand the Galaxy S27 family.

In the meantime, Apple is reportedly splitting its September reveal into smaller, premium-focused events, potentially including a foldable iPhone priced up to $1,500.