On this page, we are tracking the Android 14 update roll out as well as bugs and issues related to it. This tracker page went live when the Android 14 update was unveiled, so we’ve tried to maintain it in a way that the latest info remains on top. If you have any suggestions regarding this tracker, please don’t hesitate to drop a comment at the bottom of this page.
This tracker is currently divided into the following sections:
- An update roll out text section which has the details about release of Android 14 beta and stable builds
- A textual section containing info on bugs and issues
Google Pixel Update Rollout section
Note: The text updates will show up in descending order with the latest coming at top.
Update 14 [Feb. 1, 2024]: The Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3.2 update is rolling out, but only for one Pixel model – the Pixel 5a.
Update 13 [Jan. 25, 2024]: Google has rolled out the Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3.1 update, which improves the stability and performance of Pixel phones. Pixel 5a and above phones, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet are compatible with this patch.
Update 12 [Jan. 10, 2024]: Google recently rolled out the Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3 update, which brings bug fixes to some known issues and improvements to performance and stability. This patch has been released for Pixel 5a and above phones, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet.
Update 11 [Jan. 1, 2024]: The January 2024 update, which contains bug fixes to some known issues and general improvements for Pixel phones, was recently released for Pixel 5a and later devices.
Update 10 [Dec. 12, 2023]: Google has released the Android 14 QPR2 Beta 2 update, which brings some notable fixes and enhances the daily user experience. Pixel 5a and above, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet are compatible with this upgrade.
Update 9 [Dec. 6, 2023]: The December 2023 security patch based on Android 14 QPR1 has been recently rolled out for Pixel 6 and later devices. It brings about 40 bug fixes and enhancements related to Apps, Audio, Bluetooth, Camera, and much more.
Update 8 [Nov. 22, 2023]: Google recently released the Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1.1 update. which brings bug fixes to some known issues. It also contains the November 2023 security patch and Google Play Services v23.36.1. Along with this, the recent update adds x86 (64-bit) and ARM (v8-A) emulator support as well.
Update 7 [Nov. 16, 2023]: The Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1 update is now live for Pixel 5a and above, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet, featuring bug fixes, performance boosts, and stability improvements. This patch also addresses issues related to Feedback Submission, Package Manager Stability, and 5G Connectivity.
Update 6 [Nov. 6, 2023]: Google released the November 2023 update for Pixel phones, including the most recent Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro models. The latest update addresses problems related to display and graphics issues, NFC, user interface, and much more.
Update 5 [Nov. 3, 2023]: Android 14 QPR1 beta 2.2 update released for the Pixel 5a and above phones, bringing fixes to a number of issues.
Update 4 [Oct. 24, 2023]: Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro owners can now install the Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2.1 update.
Update 3 [Oct. 20, 2023]: Google has recently released the Android 14 QPR1 beta 2.1 update for the Pixel 5a and newer phones. It brings bug fixes to some known issues and performance improvements. However, the patch will be available on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro at a later time.
Update 2 [Oct. 13, 2023]: The Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 update for both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro is now available. The company has published the factory and OTA images for both devices with version U1B2.230922.006.
Update 1 [Oct. 4, 2023]: Google released the Android 14 stable build for the Pixel 4A 5G and later models, along with the new Pixel 8 lineup, at the Made by Google 2023 event.
Google Pixel Bugs, Issues, Problems and related developments section
This section is regularly updated to reflect the most recent and relevant information about bugs and issues
Pixel 7 Android 14 update on T-Mobile and Google Fi still not available
Even though the Android 14 update has been available for a few days, it seems that T-Mobile and Google Fi users cannot upgrade to the latest OS. Those affected can fortunately swap their phone SIM for one from another carrier that has received the update and install it.
Pixel phones plagued with random crashes, significant slowdowns, and screen flickering issues
By glancing at the recent reports, it appears that Pixel owners are experiencing random crashes, freezes, and restarts, and that too when the phone is not in use. In addition, they experience a discernible lag when the phone is plugged in for charging. And this adversely impacts the device’s animations and smoothness of scrolling.
On the top of this, the display inconsistencies such as greenish tinge, distinct color lines, or conspicuous white lines in the notification area make the user experience even worse. Sadly, some have gotten their phones bricked in the upgrade process as well.
Pixel users unable to add ‘Google Home’ lock screen shortcut
According to reports, multiple Pixel users have been experiencing difficulties while trying to add the ‘Google Home’ lock screen shortcut. It appears that a glitch introduced with the latest OS has impacted this feature.
If you too are affected by this bug, then try uninstalling and reinstalling the Google Home app for a potential fix. If that doesn’t help solve your problem, then turn the screen off and on when adding the lock screen shortcut.
Google Pixel lock screen clock customization bugged
Reports indicate that Pixel owners are also unable to customize the lock-screen clock. Even if they select from the different available designs, only the default clock style appears on the lock screen.
Swipe gestures bugged or not working on Pixel phones
Several Pixel users have lately been complaining that the swipe gestures are not working correctly after installing the latest Android 14 update. Luckily, you can do a factory reset on your phone to get rid of this glitch.
Green screen flickering issue affecting Pixel phones updated to Android 14
After updating to Android 14, some Google Pixel owners are reporting ‘green screen flickering’, which manifests in two main forms: random flickering or a persistent green tone. Those who are facing this problem can try adjusting the color correction settings or factory resetting their device.
Luckily, this bug has been addressed in the recent November 2023 patch.
Black screen issues after Android 14 update
Numerous Google Pixel users have encountered black screen issues after updating their devices to Android 14. This problem has been reported across a number of Pixel variants, with the majority of the reports from Pixel 5a owners. Astonishingly, the display turns black randomly during routine usage of the Pixel phone.
In certain cases, the phones become totally unresponsive, and fail to respond to human inputs or physical buttons. Fortunately, you can try disabling the ‘multiprofile’ option to get rid of this glitch. If your smartphone is unresponsive, then you can forcefully restart it by holding the power button for 30 seconds.
Black camera viewfinder bug on Pixels
Several Pixel owners have been facing camera-related issues ever since they upgraded to the latest OS. There have been instances where the viewfinder shows a black screen or the application crashes abruptly. This bug mostly affects rear cameras. Some individuals keep getting a black screen on the viewfinder, while others experience application crashes shortly after the launch.
It’s noteworthy that similar camera-related issues were being faced on Pixel devices running Android 13. However, the Android 14 update seems to have exacerbated the problem.
Android 14 breaking popular third-party launchers for some
The Android 14 upgrade is leading to complications with third-party launchers on Pixels, particularly popular ones like Lawnchair and Nova Launcher. Users report various problems, like apps not functioning properly, erratic behavior, disappearing icons, and severe lag.
Various alternative launchers like Hyperion, Microsoft, and Niagara have been suggested, although they may not work perfectly either.
Pixel 8 Micro stutters or jitters when scrolling
Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro owners are experiencing micro-stuttering and jitters during app scrolling despite the Tensor G3 SoC and Android 14 upgrade. The problem is most noticeable when scrolling up and down through apps like the Google Play Store, X, Reddit, and so on. Among the apps, Reddit seems to be the most affected. Sadly, this issue has been affecting Pixel 7 users as well.
Fortunately, the problem has been fixed with the recent November 2023 patch released by Google.
Android 14 update broke Android Auto on Google Pixel devices
According to recent reports, several Pixel owners are experiencing connectivity issues with Android Auto after upgrading to the latest OS. For some, the connection between the phone and the car is stuttering or unstable. For others, the connection cannot be established even after repeated attempts. People have tried to make the connection wirelessly and with the help of a USB cable, but to no avail.
Those who are lucky enough to establish the connection cannot use audio-related apps and services properly. As per the claims, choppy sound is produced during music playback or while navigating directions. A member of the Android Auto team has already escalated the issue.
Google Lens missing from the Pixel Camera app
Following the Android 14 upgrade, Pixel users have been unable to access the Google Lens feature from the camera app. With the rollout of the latest OS, Google renamed the classic Google Camera app to ‘Pixel Camera’. In addition to this, it also separated Google Lens features from the Camera app. This was done with the aim of transforming the app into one that is completely focused on taking photos and videos.
Understandably, this shift is surprising for those who are used to accessing the Lens capabilities directly via the app. People can now access the feature with the ‘Camera’ icon integrated into the Google Search Bar. The official Google Lens app can also be downloaded from the Play Store.
Android 14 update may have been halted by Google
Reports from various Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 7a owners indicate that Google might have halted the Android 14 upgrade. Even though some of them earlier got a notification to update to the latest OS, their devices failed to install it. As of now, the upgrade option is no longer available. One cannot get it back even after restarting the phone or factory resetting it.
It seems that Google might have halted the update roll out in order to prevent the gadgets from bricking.
Google’s severe battery drain issues persist in the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
The latest Pixel series seems to be continuing the trend of poor battery life on Google’s smartphones. Even after using their phones for a few weeks, Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro owners are experiencing a significant battery drain. According to the reports, the main culprit seems to be the mobile network.
Some have even noted instances where the network alone ends up using 75% of the device’s battery, and that too in sleep mode.
Pixel 8 always on display keeps turning off for some users
Pixel 8 users have also been lately facing difficulties in keeping the always on display (AOD) function enabled. Reports suggest that the feature keeps turning off on its own after a few minutes, causing inconvenience to the owners. As of now, it’s unclear what triggers the problem.
However, there are claims that the always on display turns off when the device has been in sleep mode for some time, is kept inside the pocket, or is laying on a surface. If you too are facing this problem, please try the workarounds listed here.
Pixel 8 Face Unlock not working properly in low light conditions
According to recent reports, Pixel fans are encountering problems while using the Class 3-level Face Unlock system for making payments. They claim that the system struggles to identify their faces in low-light conditions, potentially due to inadequate screen brightness. The device’s system relies on the screen light to be able to identify people even in low-light conditions.
However, complaints indicate that the phone fails to adjust the screen brightness properly. As a workaround, you can try re-registering your face in a slightly darker room.
Android 14 storage media bug on Pixel devices
Those who have upgraded to Android 14 have also been experiencing issues such as inaccessibility to local files and continuous bootloops. Additionally, people were also facing problems while trying to use the phone’s camera or opening the downloaded files. Notably, the glitches were affecting Pixel 6, 6 Pro, Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a users.
Google eventually admitted that the root cause of the problem was the utilization of multiple user profiles on a single device. It recently released the November 2023 patch, which addressed the bug.
Pixel 8 Best Take feature keeps crashing Google Photos app
Recent reports on Reddit indicate that some Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users are unable to use the Best Take feature. The newly introduced functionality, for sure, makes it quite an easy task to replace faces in group photos. However, those who own the latest Pixels are encountering app crashes while trying to utilize it. Unfortunately, Google hasn’t made an official statement.
Luckily, some can overcome this problem by updating the Google Photos app to v.6.61.0.579687566. So, it is recommended that you do the same. There’s also a subset of users who are unable to find the ‘Best Take’ option on their new phones. If this feature is not visible to you as well, then try selecting the ’12MP’ option in the camera app’s Pro settings.
Pixel 8 users experiencing Wi-Fi issues on mesh network
According to the posts on the Google support forum and Reddit, Pixel 8 owners are facing problems with Wi-Fi connectivity when connected to a mesh network. It has been observed that the transmission speed is significantly slower as compared to other networks. And to make matters worse, users are experiencing frequent disconnections even in those areas where the network connectivity is good.
It’s worth mentioning that the previous generation of Pixels also had issues with Wi-Fi connectivity. However, it seems that this problem has only worsened with the latest phones. To get rid of such glitches, generally, manual reconnection or phone restarts are needed. You can also try disabling mesh connectivity or ‘randomized MAC Address’ and ‘Fast Roaming’ options for a potential fix.
In addition, some basic troubleshooting steps, like tweaking the modem settings, changing the Wi-Fi channel, and switching to a different mesh network, can be performed. Fortunately, this issue has been resolved with the latest December 2023 security patch.
Vodafone & O2 5G Plus (5G SA) German networks cannot be activated on Google Pixel
Vodafone and O2 5G Plus subscribers in Germany have lately been facing problems activating their devices on both of these networks. You would be disappointed to know that Google has removed support for standalone 5G networks from some older Pixel phones. Notably, it has removed this functionality from the Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a phones with the March 2023 update.
So, this could be one of the reasons that these networks fail to activate on your phones. Strangely, this issue is affecting a section of Pixel 8 users as well. However, as per the claims, one can use the 5G SA connectivity if the phone is upgraded to Android 14 QPR1 beta.
Google released specialized solution for Pixel phones
Google has recently released a specialized solution to address the Android 14-triggered reboot issues on Pixel phones. Those who are stuck in a repeated reboot cycle can use the Pixel Repair Tool to recover partial data as well as install the latest November system update. Based on the carrier and device model, users can install different variants of the fix released by Google.
Spotify audio bug on Android Auto after Android 14 update
Those who have upgraded to Android 14 are experiencing a persistent glitch where they are unable to hear any sound or music played via Spotify on Android Auto. Even though the track plays normally on the app, the audio fails to output. Fortunately, Google is currently investigating this bug, although an ETA for the fix has not been given.
There are two workarounds that you can try. The first way to get rid of this problem is by directly connecting the smartphone to your car’s infotainment system. The second option that you have is downgrade to Android 13.
Pixel 8 owners unable to get notifications from the old Nest app
As per the reports on Reddit and Nest Community, Pixel 8 owners have lately been unable to get notifications from the old Nest app. For sure, this is quite concerning, as the alerts fail to appear even when the smoke detector goes off. The worst part is that Google has not yet officially acknowledged it. Luckily, the notifications appear like they should on the app and the older Pixels.
As of now, you can only go through the troubleshooting steps shared by a ‘Community Specialist’.
5G connectivity issues might get fixed with Android 14 QPR2 beta update
According to the latest update’s changelog, Google has fixed an issue that prevented Pixels from connecting to a 5G network even in areas with a strong signal. If you too were facing this problem, then you can sigh in relief, as this patch will probably resolve it. However, it’s quite a possibility that the company might need some more time to address this issue completely from its 5G smartphones.
One can expect significant improvements with the rollout of the final upgrade next year. As this beta update is ‘suitable for general use’, those affected can join the beta upgrade.
Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1 update removes Eufy Security app support
The Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1 update has brought an issue that makes the Pixel phones uninstall the Eufy smart home app. Google’s official changelog does mention that a known issue stops the system from installing apps utilizing the meta-data element unconventionally. However, they haven’t admitted that the same bug is making the phone uninstall such clients as well.
For now, users can only try installing an older app, like the January 2023 version, for a potential fix.
Pixel 8 photos appear too bright in Google Photos app
Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users have lately been facing an issue where the photos appear too bright or washed out in the Google Photos app. As of now, this issue only affects pictures taken with the camera. Luckily, one can still view downloaded photos or screenshots without any difficulties. If the reports on Reddit and XDA forums are anything to go by, then the problem lies with Pixel 8’s processing of Ultra HDR photography.
This contradicts Google’s claim that Ultra HDR enhances without altering the original quality. Interestingly, the image can be viewed normally when shared on a social networking platform or with a friend. The photos fail to appear properly when loaded in the Photos or Files app. Fortunately, this problem can be addressed by installing the v9.0.115.554144671.19 app.
Some Pixel users unable to opt out of the Android 14 beta program
Fresh reports suggest that some Pixel owners are facing challenges transitioning from Android 14 QPR2 beta 1 to the stable release. As per the claims, they are unable to opt out of the beta program. Despite opting out, the expected downgrade OTA with stable version does not arrive. If you too are facing this problem, then we recommend that you ignore this update and patiently wait until the public release of Android 14 QPR 1.
Although, you can also try workarounds like sideloading the OTA update, power cycling, factory resetting your device, and much more.
Android 14 users can no longer see app notifications by long pressing on icons
By looking at the recent reports, it appears that Android 14 users can no longer view the app notifications by pressing the icons. As of now, Google has not disclosed the specific reason for removing this option. This change was first implemented in the beta builds of the OS, and it seems that the company decided to extend it to the stable version after noticing some positive results.
Some people are unhappy as they used to access notifications with the help of this feature after they were accidentally cleared.
Google Assistant voice typing broken even after Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1.1 update
Even though Google introduced support for multilingual voice typing with the latest Pixels, it seems that users are unable to reap the benefits. Notably, Google Assistant’s voice typing feature cannot be used as the microphone icon on the Gboard app is grayed out. And to make things worse, there is no way to activate it.
This issue has been persistent ever since the Android 14 QPR2 beta update, and the situation remains the same even now. Currently, one can temporarily get rid of this problem by clearing the Google and Gboard apps’ cache or force-stopping them.
Pixel 8 Pro bags modem updates with Android 14 QPR2 beta 1.1
Recent reports indicate that Google has silently updated the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro modems in the latest Android 14 QPR2 Beta 1.1 update. Strangely, Google has not mentioned anything about the modem’s firmware update in the patch’s changelog. So, currently, it’s not possible to determine what exactly has been changed.
But it’s quite possible that the company may have introduced improvements to network compatibility and connectivity with new internet protocols.
Google Pixel ‘stuttering when scrolling’ issue persists even after November patch
Pixel owners have been experiencing stuttering issues when scrolling through the system UI or apps for the past few months. And sadly, the situation remains the same even after installing the latest November patch. What’s more, this problem is not limited to a single generation and is significantly impacting the user experience.
Additionally, people still face difficulties while trying to swipe or use swipe gestures while the device is charging. Understandably, they are very disappointed to be encountering these problems even on such powerful smartphones. However, it’s quite possible that noticeable improvements will be rolled out with the upcoming December update.
Google Pixel 7 series ‘call drop’ issue persists for some
According to the latest reports, Pixel 7 owners are experiencing a persistent call drop issue, causing sudden disconnections and voice loss during calls. The sad part is that Google has been unable to address this concern completely, even with the latest Android upgrade. There have also been some instances where the problem began after upgrading to Android 14.
Fortunately, a Platinum Diamond Product expert has responded that this issue will most likely be resolved with the upcoming December update. Those affected can temporarily overcome the situation by changing network types, disabling adaptive connectivity, and resetting the network.
Wallpaper history missing for some after upgrading to Android 14 QPR2 Beta 2
Fresh reports suggest that some Pixel users are encountering difficulties while trying to access the wallpaper history. As per the claims, the recently applied wallpapers don’t appear after long-pressing the home screen or opening the ‘Wallpaper & style’ settings. It should be noted that this issue has popped up with Android 14 QPR2 Beta 2.
Fortunately, there’s a workaround. You can try applying a new wallpaper via the built-in ‘Wallpaper & style’ settings.
Pixel 7 series fingerprint sensor broken after Android 14 QPR2 Beta 2 update
By glancing at the recent reports, it appears that the latest Beta update has introduced a bug in the fingerprint sensor of some Pixel 7 units. For some, the fingerprint button flashes intensely and does not function properly. While others get a ‘Can’t use fingerprint sensor. Visit a repair center’ error message on the phone’s lock screen.
This problem affects even those who have never replaced the original screen on their devices. And to make matters worse, users are unable to delete current fingerprints or register new ones. Luckily, those impacted can try using the fingerprint calibration software or installing the stable build on their devices for a potential fix.
Android 14 phones affected with a new lock screen bypass bug
Jose Rodriguez, a security researcher, uncovered a significant lock screen bypass bug in Android 14 and 13, which poses a serious threat to sensitive user data stored in Google accounts. If an individual has access to someone’s phone, then he can exploit a security vulnerability in the Google Maps app and access their browsing history, contacts, photos, and much more.
The type of data that they can access depends on whether the owner has kept the driving mode enabled or disabled. If disabled, the attacker can access recent and favorite locations, contacts, and share real-time location with other contacts or via email.
On the other hand, if the Driving Mode is enabled, the person can access photos and publish them online or use them as account pictures. Plus, they can access extensive information and configurations of Google accounts.
Android Auto wireless connection not working with Pixel phones after December update
Recent reports indicate that the December 2023 update for Pixel phones has introduced an issue with the Android Auto wireless connectivity. As per the claims, Android Auto fails to launch properly and does not display any error message on the car’s infotainment system screen when connected wirelessly. Notably, the problem is mostly affecting users with the Sony XAV-AX4000 and XAV-AX6000 head units.
Astonishingly, some have been experiencing this issue ever since the Android 14 QPR1 beta update. Fortunately, Google is aware of the situation and is collecting feedback from those affected. Until a fix is released, people can connect their phones with the help of a wired connection.
Some Pixel users report laggy animations in notification shade after December update
It appears that the December 2023 update is causing issues with the notification shade’s performance on the Pixel phones. Users complain that they experience laggy animations and stuttering within the shade whenever they swipe it down to check the notifications.
Some also claim that the quick actions on the lock screen disappear instantly whenever they bring down the notification shade. Luckily, those impacted can try installing the AI Core app for a potential fix.
Pixel 7 users get ‘high-pitched’ noise in video recordings after December patch
According to reports, some Pixel 7 users have been experiencing high-pitched noise in video recordings after installing the latest update, leading to audio quality issues. Astonishingly, the problem persists even when one records videos in silent environments.
And what’s more saddening is that one cannot get rid of it even after rebooting the device, booting it in Safe Mode, or installing the latest QPR2 beta update. Fortunately, Google is currently investigating the matter.
Pixel owners keep getting ‘Unknown apps can’t be installed by this user’
Many Pixel owners have recently encountered an annoying bug preventing them from installing third-party apps. As per the claims, they get an ‘Unknown apps can’t be installed by this user’ error message when trying to install an APK. Resultantly, people are unable to sideload an older version of their favorite app or install the one that isn’t yet available on the Play Store.
The actual cause of this issue is unknown, but it appears to have popped after the December 2023 patch. Fortunately, we have come across some workarounds. You can try using the APK Extractor app or the ADB (Android Debug Bridge) to install the third-party app on your handset.
Some Google Pixel users report Wallet crashing after unlocking with fingerprint using lock screen shortcut
Those who use Pixel phones are facing difficulties using the Google Wallet app after the December 2023 update. According to them, the Google Wallet app crashes or disappears whenever they access it from the lock screen using the fingerprint sensor. Sadly, this issue is not limited to just a single Pixel phone and affects various models like the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and even the latest Pixel 8.
It’s worth mentioning that this bug has been persistent ever since the early Android 14 QPR1 beta. Those impacted can either try using the ‘Show All’ option before using fingerprint unlock or pattern unlock for a potential fix.
Spotify beta crashing on Pixel devices
Spotify beta users have recently been experiencing crashes on phones running on Android 14, including Pixel devices. According to reports, the app either keeps crashing or gets stuck on a blank screen upon launch. Fortunately, the issue is affecting only those people who are using the Spotify app v8.9.2.169.
Those on the stable build can enjoy grooving to their favorite tracks without any hiccups. If you too are encountering similar problems, then it is recommended that you leave the beta program and install the non-beta version of the app on your phone.
Spotify significantly draining battery for some Pixel 8 and 8 Pro users
Numerous Pixel users are experiencing severe battery drain when using Spotify on their Android 14-powered phones. As per the reports, the situation remains the same even when the app is running in the background. Some claim that Spotify consumes more battery than location-intensive apps like Strava.
Unfortunately, the problem is not limited to a specific Pixel phone and has not yet been acknowledged by both Spotify and Google. As of now, you can temporarily get rid of this issue by disabling Spotify Connect, restricting the app’s background activity, or uninstalling and reinstalling it.
Pixel screens freezing or unresponsive while using a Pixel Stand
Several Google Pixel users are experiencing an issue where their device screens become unresponsive while using the official Pixel Stand for charging. Sadly, in certain situations, the phone remains in a frozen state even after removing it from the wireless charger. One has to restart the device to restore it to a working state.
Notably, this problem has been persistent ever since the Android 14 beta rollout. Even though Google had officially acknowledged the issue, it failed to resolve it before the stable update rollout.
Pixel Launcher microphone keeps toggling voice search instead of Google Assistant
Those using Pixel devices running on Android 14 QPR2 Beta 2 are facing difficulties launching the Google Assistant from the Pixel Launcher’s search bar. As per the claims, the phone invokes voice search instead of Google Assistant on tapping the ‘microphone’ icon in the bottom search bar.
According to reports, this has been happening ever since the Google app v15.0 beta update. Since there is no official word on this matter, it can’t be said if this is a bug or an intentional change. Affected individuals can either use the ‘Hey Google’ voice command or swipe from the bottom corner (left or right) to the screen’s center to launch the assistant.
Pixel camera crashing issue fixed with January 2024 update
Multiple Google Pixel owners have been experiencing camera crashing issues in different situations for the past few months. As per the reports, the app mostly crashed while zooming in or taking many photos continuously.
Luckily, Google seems to have addressed these problems, as well as some UI-related bugs, with the January 2024 update. According to the official changelog, the latest update has addressed these glitches on devices ranging from the Pixel 5 to the Pixel 8 Pro.
Galaxy Wearable app crashing on some Pixel devices
It appears that the recent January 2024 update has led to connection glitches between Galaxy Watches and Pixel phones. Reports indicate that people are facing difficulties using the Galaxy Wearable app and maintaining smartwatch connections after installing the latest patch. Sadly, the same issue is being experienced by some Samsung smartphone owners as well.
Both Google and Samsung have not yet officially responded to the matter. So as of now, it cannot be determined that how long one needs to wait before they can use their smart wearable like before.
Mint Mobile ‘Visual Voicemail’ still not working on some Pixel devices
Mint Mobile subscribers in the US have been facing an issue with the visual voicemail for the past few months. Reportedly, the Phone App displays a ‘can’t activate’ error message with a red exclamation when trying to use the feature. Unfortunately, it fails to function properly even after uninstalling and reinstalling the client.
To make matters worse, this problem is not restricted to a single Pixel model; numerous Pixel 8 and Pixel 6a users have raised concerns. Some claim to have experienced this issue even before the recent updates. According to a moderator, the recent patches lack the Mint Mobile carrier configuration.
Sadly, this issue cannot be fixed by a simple APN change, but there are some workarounds. For the time being, one can use alternatives like YouMail and Google Voice.
Pixel 7 users report screen turns green when watching content on Netflix
Pixel 7 users are allegedly experiencing an issue where their screens turn completely green while watching a show or movie on Netflix. This glitch also pops up while streaming content from other apps or watching videos. The sad part is that the problem remains persistent even after multiple software updates.
Adjusting the display settings has proven ineffective, and rebooting the phone only temporarily resolves the issue. As of now, there is no official acknowledgement from Netflix or Google.
‘Recent’ apps button not working properly on Pixel phones running on Android 14
Ever since the rollout of Android 14, several Pixel owners have been complaining that the ‘Recent’ apps button is not working properly. Sadly, the situation remains the same even after multiple updates. According to reports, the button fails to activate at random intervals, leaving users no choice but to reboot the device.
People are also unable to use the gesture, which allowed them to quickly switch between the last two opened apps. Unfortunately, the problem is not limited to only those phones that were upgraded to Android 14. There are reports from Pixel 8 users as well. As a temporary workaround, those impacted can try stopping the Pixel Launcher app forcefully.
Bluetooth connectivity issues persist for some Pixel 8 users even after January update
Some Pixel 8 owners have been experiencing Bluetooth-related issues ever since the device’s launch. There are claims that Bluetooth disconnects at random intervals from devices. And in some situations, the gadgets fail to connect altogether. People are also encountering problems connecting their smartphones with their cars via Bluetooth.
Astonishingly, the glitch hasn’t been resolved even with the latest January 2024 update. Those who possess older Pixel phones are also encountering similar problems. Fortunately, we have come across a workaround. You can try disabling the ‘Bluetooth A2DP Hardware offload’ option in the Developer settings for a potential fix.
Some Pixel 6 users on Android 14 report random restarts
Ever since the Android 14 rollout, some Pixel 6 users have been experiencing an issue where their devices keep rebooting on random occasions. Sadly, this sometimes happens multiple times within a single day, which, undoubtedly, can be quite frustrating and annoying. What’s more disappointing is that this glitch remains persistent even after multiple updates. However, the troubles of Pixel 6 owners don’t end here.
Some people are also encountering a similar problem when they are trying to use the Crunchyroll app. Fortunately, the support team has already escalated this bug to the developers for investigation. However, there’s no ETA for the bug fix.
Some Pixel users once again reporting internal storage bug
Recent reports from some Pixel users indicate that the infamous internal storage bug has resurged after the January 2024 Google Play System update. This glitch initially surfaced in October last year and was patched by Google. However, it seems that the company has accidentally reintroduced this bug with the latest patch.
Like before, there are complaints about apps refusing to launch, files becoming inaccessible, and much more. Besides the app data, all the other files appear as 0 in the ‘Files’ client. What’s more disappointing is that Google has not yet officially responded to the matter. We recommend that you refrain from installing this patch until the problem is completely resolved.
Instagram app significantly draining battery on some Google Pixel phones
As per recent reports, Instagram is causing a significant battery drain on some Pixel devices. There are complaints that the app keeps running in the background when not in use, impacting battery life. Similar problems have been observed on devices from other manufacturers after the Android 14 update. What’s strange is that this happens even when the ‘Restricted’ battery option has been set.
Although the exact reason is unknown, it could have something to do with background processes like automatic syncing, push notifications, and location tracking. To stop Instagram from draining your handset’s battery, you can try to force stop it, uninstall and reinstall the client, limit background activity, or use Instagram Lite.
Featured Image: Google.
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