Pixel Users Advised to Delay Android 17 Update Amid Touchscreen and Connectivity Issues
Recent updates with Android 17 have left many Pixel users facing unexpected challenges. While some issues were initially reported, a surge of complaints related to touchscreen functionality and connectivity have surfaced, prompting experts to recommend that users consider postponing their updates until a more stable version is available.
Problems Plaguing Pixel Users Post-Android 17 Update
Pixel owners who have upgraded to Android 17 are encountering a range of frustrating problems. Users report that Google apps fail to operate correctly when Wi-Fi is enabled on their devices. As a solution, they can enable IPv6 on their routers, which seems to alleviate issues for some. However, those using mobile data without Wi-Fi seem unaffected.
Touchscreen Troubles Following Update
In addition to connectivity problems, a new bug affecting the touchscreens of Pixel phones with Android 17 has emerged. Users describe erratic touch inputs, with some experiencing issues while trying to navigate social media feeds, resulting in unintended actions. Others have reported that their touch commands are entirely unresponsive.
Potential Fixes for Touchscreen Issues
This touchscreen issue appears to be more serious than previous bugs. However, some users have suggested potential remedies. A common fix advised is to clear the cache for the Pixel Launcher by following these steps: Settings > Apps > See all apps > Pixel Launcher app > Storage & cache > Clear cache. Unfortunately, many impacted users have found this method ineffective.
Another suggestion is to reboot the phone in Safe Mode, which can help identify if a third-party app is causing the touchscreen malfunction. Users can enter Safe Mode on their Pixel 6 or newer devices by following these steps:
- Press and hold the Power and Volume up buttons simultaneously.
- When the power options appear, press and hold the Power off or Restart button, then tap OK.
If the phone is off, users should:
- Press the power button.
- When the animation starts, press and hold the volume down button until the animation ends.
- Safe mode will appear on the screen.
Another potential fix involves adjusting the display settings. Users can navigate to Settings > Display & touch > Smooth display and toggle it off, which changes the refresh rate from 120Hz to 60Hz.
User Complaints Escalate
Numerous complaints about the touchscreen and other bugs have already been filed with the Google IssueTracker, affecting devices across Pixel 7 to 10 series. Users of the Pixel 6 series appear to be largely unaffected. Having tested the update on my Pixel 6 Pro, I encountered no adverse effects.
Given the current issues with Android 17 and the lack of resolution from Google, users who have yet to upgrade may want to wait until future updates address these pervasive problems.
Additional Bugs Reported
Aside from the touchscreen and connectivity problems, users are also reporting that home screen widgets have disappeared and that battery life has been adversely affected on certain models. While the Pixel 10 series users are seeing a drop in battery performance, those on Pixel 7 to 9 series are generally experiencing enhancements post-update.
