Google dismisses concerns about Pixel 5 display and chassis gaps as 'a normal part of the design' of the smartphone

A few weeks have passed since it emerged that some Pixel 5 units were suffering from screen separation issues. Specifically, there were countless posts online showing that the displays and chassis of some devices were not sitting flush, as is almost always the case on modern smartphones. Consequently, some people worried that these gaps might have compromised the water and dust resistance of their handsets.

However, Google has now responded on its Support Forums, dismissing any concerns that people have. The message, posted by a Community Specialist, is as follows:

We've had a chance to investigate units from customers and, combined with our quality control data from the factory, we can confirm that the variation in the clearance between the body and the display is a normal part of the design of your Pixel 5. There is no effect on the water and dust resistance or functionality of your phone. We will work with customers on an individual basis to address any concerns they may have.

If Google has designed the Pixel 5  with a gap between its display and chassis, then we would expect the majority of handsets to exhibit 'design'. However, this is not the case, as we encountered when reviewing the Pixel 5 . Inversely, Google's statement suggests that it should offer refunds and exchanges for handsets where the display and chassis meet flush. Ultimately, we doubt that this is the last we will hear of this.