Pixel Users Experience Issues with Gemini Hotword After Android 17 Beta Update
In the past week, many Pixel users have reported significant issues with their devices following the installation of Android 17 Beta releases. Particularly, the Gemini prompt, which should activate when users say "Hey Google," has been unresponsive. This feature was expected to provide users with an alternative digital assistant but has been hindered by recent updates. Below, we explore the problem and potential solutions while highlighting discussions within the Pixel community.
Hotword Activation Issue with Android 17 Beta
For many Pixel users, particularly those with the Pixel 6 Pro, saying "Hey Google" was supposed to trigger the Gemini prompt, allowing access to a highly regarded digital assistant. However, users have found that following the installation of Android 17 Beta 1 and 2, this functionality has been disrupted. A Reddit user, Thin_Sun_2612, confirmed this problem, stating, "Same issue, Android 17 Beta 1 and 2 had the same issues. Pixel 8 Pro."
Reporting the Bug and Alternative Solutions
Fortunately, the issue has been officially reported to Google via the Issue Tracker, and users are hopeful for a fix in a subsequent Android 17 Beta update. In the interim, there is a workaround: users can manually summon the Gemini prompt by long-pressing the power button on their Pixel devices. The prompt should seamlessly appear at the bottom of the screen.
Alternative Command for Gemini Live
Interestingly, users can still access Gemini Live by saying "Hey Google, let's chat." This command allows for a conversational interaction with the Gemini model despite the ongoing issues. Google maintains the "Hey Google" hotword for consistency across devices.
Community Feedback and Temporary Measures
Some users on Reddit expressed that clearing the cache and storage for the Gemini and Assistant applications resolved the issue for them; however, this was not universally effective. The community has mostly found this disruption to be more of an inconvenience than a substantial problem. Nonetheless, the ability to interact hands-free was a significant feature that many Pixel users relied upon.
Implications for Pixel Users
As Pixel users continue to grapple with these issues, they may notice prompts encouraging them to switch to Gemini within Google Assistant. Starting mid-March, an update will reportedly eliminate the option to revert back to Google Assistant in Pixel settings for those who prefer it. Additionally, older devices, such as the Pixel 3 and Pixel 4a, may not support Gemini due to hardware limitations.
Future Updates and Siri's Competition
As Google enhances its AI capabilities with Gemini, competition is heating up with Siri, set to receive significant upgrades in iOS 27 with integration of a custom model from Gemini. This evolution signals a broader trend in digital assistant technology, emphasizing the importance of sophisticated AI interactions.
For now, Pixel users dealing with the loss of "Hey Google" functionality can rely on the power button shortcut while awaiting a resolution from Google. The ongoing discussions within the community highlight a collective anticipation for fixes as more users adapt to changes in their devices' functionalities.
