According to Bloomberg, Google will allow a small group of fans to test its next Pixel smartphone before it is officially announced. The new “Trusted Tester” program will select 15 participants who will sign confidentiality agreements and use protective cases to hide the device in public. The initiative aims to collect real-world feedback while preventing leaks.

This represents a shift in Google’s approach to hardware development. The company has often struggled with premature leaks in its Pixel lineup, and this move suggests a new strategy for balancing secrecy with community involvement. Bloomberg reviewed the internal rules for the program but noted that Google has not yet confirmed the plan publicly.

Participants will reportedly be chosen from Google’s “Pixel Superfans” community, a group of loyal users who already engage with the brand through events and promotions. Giving these fans access to unreleased devices not only rewards their enthusiasm but also deepens their role in shaping the next generation of Pixel phones.

The program could also signal a broader shift in how tech companies handle product testing. Instead of relying solely on internal staff or closed labs, Google is opening its doors to real-world testers who can provide insights that lab environments often miss. For the fans involved, it’s a rare chance to handle pre-release hardware before the public reveal.

Although specific details remain unclear, including which Pixel model the program covers or when applications will open, Google’s decision to involve its community in early testing points to a new way of managing hardware launches. The company appears focused on strengthening trust, reducing leaks, and building stronger ties with its most dedicated users.