Update 1 (April 10, 2024)
12:50 pm (IST): While Google has yet to acknowledge this issue, we are seeing more reports pop up with an extended version of the same glitch. Apparently, when users first initiate a search on their Google Pixel devices, they get an error message saying “Something went wrong” instead of the intended results. But when they tap on “Try again” the search proceeds as expected. Some say switching to a different non-Gmail email fixes the issue for some, so the glitch is likely tied to Google accounts.
Original article from March 21, 2024 follows:
Some Google Pixel users are encountering a peculiar glitch when utilizing the convenient search bar shortcut at the bottom of the home screen. When attempting to initiate a search through this bar, users are reporting that the Google app occasionally remains stuck on a blank screen. The screen displays their search query and the Google logo but fails to load any search results.
Frustratingly, a reliable solution isn’t immediately apparent. While clearing the Google search app’s cache and data may offer a temporary fix, the problem comes back again often within a day or so. This intermittent nature of the glitch adds to the confusion. Even more frustrating is that Google hasn’t officially acknowledged the issue yet, leading to speculation about how widespread the glitch is across Pixel devices (1,2,3,4,5).
It’s possible some users are experiencing the issue but haven’t found it sufficiently troublesome to report or seek help online. This likely explains the dotted reports from Pixel users whose Google search bar is bugged despite the issue having been around for months now. This prolonged existence makes it hard to pin it to a specific Google app update. However, for those affected, this glitch undoubtedly introduces a point of friction at odds with Google’s goal of a seamless search experience. Interestingly, none of our Pixels is experiencing this glitch.
Pixel users experiencing the ‘Something went wrong’ error in Google search that forces them into a second tap to bring back search results have no option but to try the temporary cache-clearing fix or simply endure the quirk of re-entering their search query to finally get those results to load. Hopefully, Google will take notice and investigate this glitch soon to restore the snappy search experience that its Pixel devices are known for.
That said, have you experienced this issue? Share your experience in the comments below.
Hillary Keverenge
2114 Posts
Tech has been my playground for over a decade. While the Android journey began early, it truly took flight with the revolutionary Lollipop update. Since then, it's been a parade of Android devices (with a sprinkle of iOS), culminating in a mostly happy marriage with Google's smart home ecosystem. Expect insightful articles and explorations of the ever-evolving world of Android and Google products coupled with occasional rants on the Nest smart home ecosystem.
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