Google Pixel Bell 9-1-1 issue fixed, Pixel Buds get easier replacements, Pixel Watch 4 Gemini tricks & more

It’s been a busy few days in the Pixel world, and not just because of Android 15 QPR1 beta updates. Earlier this week, some Pixel 10 Pro Fold users started seeing a question mark on the battery icon, Google rolled out long-overdue customization features like navigation button flipping and a new flashlight UI, and there were reports suggesting that the 80% charge limit may ironically be hurting battery life instead of preserving it.

Now, a fresh wave of developments adds more to the mix, from emergency call fixes to a surprising Pixel Camera app crashing bug and new shopping convenience for Pixel Buds owners. Here’s everything you need to know.

Bell’s 9-1-1 issue for Google Pixel phones has been fixed

What started as a worrying notice quickly turned into good news for Google Pixel users in Canada. Bell had warned that Pixel 7 through Pixel 10 devices were unable to contact emergency services, such as 9-1-1, due to a carrier-related glitch.

Fortunately, by late Thursday, the company confirmed the issue was fully resolved. Bell said it worked with Google to identify and implement a quick fix, restoring calling functionality. The issue briefly affected Pixel models across the Pixel 7, 8, 9, and 10 families; all part of Google’s latest generation lineup released between 2022 and 2025.

Google Store now sells Pixel Buds replacement parts directly

Losing an earbud or case can be frustrating, but it’s now easier to fix. The Google Store in the US now lists replacement Pixel Buds components directly, removing the need to use the older support form.

• Pixel Buds Pro 2:
  • Replacement Earbuds – $70 each (Porcelain, Hazel, Wintergreen, Peony; Moonstone out of stock)
  • Charging Case – $95
  • Eartip Set – $20 (XS–L sizes)
• Pixel Buds 2a:
  • Replacement Earbuds – $55 each (Hazel, Iris)
  • Charging Case – $55 (Hazel, out of stock)
  • Eartip Set – $20 (currently OOS)

Google warns that replacements may not be available in all areas, but this new listing streamlines what used to be a tedious support-only process.

Gemini shows off real-life uses on Pixel Watch 4

Over on Google’s official blog, Jean Lee, the Lead Product Manager for Gemini on Wearables, shared six real-world ways she used Gemini during a packed weekend with the Pixel Watch 4.

Highlights include:

• Raise to Talk, a Pixel Watch 4 exclusive, lets users trigger Gemini hands-free by simply lifting their wrist.
• Asking Gemini to check travel plans, remember ideas, or fetch emails while on the go.
• Using Gemini’s personal context feature to automatically fill calendar events and reminders, even referencing favorite ballet dancers for event planning.

The post underscores Google’s push to make Gemini feel more context-aware, proactive, and less like just another assistant.

Pixel Camera app crashes on de-Googled phones due to missing font

Meanwhile, users running GrapheneOS and other de-Googled Android builds are finding that the latest Pixel Camera app (v10.x) refuses to launch, and the culprit is surprisingly minor.

According to Android Authority, the crash stems from a new dependency on the Google Sans Flex font, which is distributed only through Google Play Services. Without it, the app crashes immediately upon launch.

In short: version 10 of Pixel Camera added a reference to this new font (resource ID 0x7f090013), breaking compatibility for users without Play Services. The workaround? Roll back to version 9.9.106.773153235.19, then block updates. Those using sandboxed Play Services remain unaffected.

So, from small bugs like a misplaced font to more serious ones like emergency call failures, Google’s hardware-software ecosystem continues to show both its strengths and growing pains. Still, features like Gemini on Pixel Watch 4 and expanded Store support for Pixel Buds highlight the company’s ongoing push toward a more connected and more AI-driven Pixel experience.