Pixel phones Archives

BetaBeacon

December 3, 2025

Google Pixel Phones Just Got a Game‑Changing Android 16 Update

- Google has introduced new screen customizations for Pixel phones in Android 16 QPR2. - Users can now customize app icons with new shape options on the home screen. - Pixel phone users can place widgets on the lock screen by swiping left, with limited options compared to the home screen. - Other lock screen changes include a new low-light mode for the screen saver and fingerprint scanning on the switched-off display. - Users can now disable or reduce blur effects in background elements, adjust HDR intensity, and schedule expanded dark mode. - The update also adds a more flexible split-screen layout, AI-powered notifications, and strengthened parental controls. - Android 16 QPR2 includes the December security patch to fix vulnerabilities and protect against threats.

AppWizard

December 1, 2025

Google Pixel Ghost Apps Bug Plagues Models 7-10 in Android 16 Update

In late November 2025, Google Pixel users reported a "ghost app" issue where apps reopen without user intervention, affecting multiple models from Pixel 9 to Pixel 10. This problem has been linked to recent software updates and has been described as a systemic glitch. Users also reported "ghost touches" on older models like the Pixel 7, where screens register inputs without contact. Complaints include apps struggling to stay closed, overheating, and inconsistent performance, with theories suggesting bugs in Android 16 and issues with the Pixel's Tensor chips. A botched privacy update may have exacerbated the problem by throttling background processes. The ongoing reliability challenges have led to a significant erosion of user trust in the Pixel brand.

BetaBeacon

November 25, 2025

Roblox “Security Threat Detected” error crashes games on Android

Android users are experiencing frustrating crashes while playing Roblox, with a puzzling error message causing confusion. The issue seems to be affecting a wide range of Android brands and models, including Samsung, Lenovo, Xiaomi, Huawei, Amazon Fire, and Google Pixel devices. The crashes started around November 22-24, possibly linked to a recent app update. Users have tried various troubleshooting methods without success and some have resorted to downgrading to an older Roblox version. Speculation suggests that Roblox's anti-cheat system may be mistakenly flagging legitimate devices as security threats. The company has not publicly addressed the issue, but users are encouraged to try installing an older APK file as a temporary workaround.

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

Pixel phones finally get native call recording after a long wait

Google has started rolling out a call-recording feature for Pixel phones, available for Pixel 6 and newer models running Android 14. The Phone by Google app now includes a Call Recording section under Settings → Call Assist. Users can activate the feature during calls with a visible recording button and a “Stop” button to end recordings. Recordings are stored locally within the app, emphasizing privacy. The feature is linked to the November Pixel Feature Drop and requires an updated Phone app. Availability may vary by device, and legal considerations regarding call recording differ by region, prompting Google to include safeguards like audible alerts when recording starts.

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

Google finally rolls out Call Recording for Pixel phones worldwide

Google has started rolling out its call recording feature in the Phone by Google app for Pixel phone users, specifically targeting Pixel 6 and newer models. The feature is now functional on devices like the Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro Fold after an update to the app. Users need to have the November Pixel Drop installed to access the feature. Call recording can be activated through Settings > Call Assist > Call Recording, with options for manual and automatic recording. The app notifies users when a recording begins and informs them about legal considerations, including the need for consent in some regions.

AppWizard

November 12, 2025

Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.3 fixes annoying Pixel lock-screen freezes

Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.3 has begun rolling out for Pixel 6 and newer devices, including the Pixel 10 lineup and foldable models. The update addresses a lock-screen freeze bug and carries the build number BP41.250916.015 for the Pixel 6 series and BP41.250916.015.A1 for newer models, while maintaining the October 2025 security patch. The update focuses on stability and does not introduce new features. It is available to those enrolled in the Android Beta Program, with a gradual rollout to all eligible Pixel phones. Users can manually check for the update in Settings > System > Software update. The full release is expected later this year, likely in December.

AppWizard

October 30, 2025

Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.2 is here, bringing Pixel testers more bug fixes

Google is rolling out Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.2 to Pixel phones and tablets enrolled in the Android Beta Program. The update includes bug fixes and stability improvements, including a resolution for a lock screen clock issue. This is the second minor patch for Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3, following Beta 3.1. The build number for this update is BP41.250916.012 for the Pixel 6 series, while other eligible devices will see BP41.250916.012.A1. The update size typically ranges from 40MB to 50MB. Users can check for the update by navigating to Settings, then System, and selecting System update.

AppWizard

October 27, 2025

How to change your Google Pixel Watch theme

Wear OS 6 introduces ten distinct color themes for the Google Pixel Watch, enhancing its visual appeal and allowing for extensive customization. The available color options are Moonstone, Ivy, Porcelain, Iris, Lemongrass, Jade, Indigo, and Peony. Users can change their watch theme through the Settings app by selecting Display and then Color theme. The update applies to Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3, and Pixel Watch 4, featuring a new domed display that enhances the vibrancy of the color themes.

AppWizard

October 23, 2025

Spotify on Android freezing and crashing? You’re not alone, and here’s what you can do

Many Android users, particularly those with Samsung and Google Pixel phones, are experiencing issues with the Spotify app freezing or crashing when connected to specific Wi-Fi networks, while it works fine on mobile data. The problem has been reported for about two weeks, and Spotify is investigating but has not provided a timeline for a fix. Users have suggested potential workarounds, such as switching to mobile data, disabling Wi-Fi, or rolling back to an earlier app version.

AppWizard

October 23, 2025

Google could be making it easier to see which apps are a threat (APK teardown)

Google is enhancing the safety and privacy features of its Pixel phones, focusing on the Live Threat Detection tool. This tool uses on-device AI to identify harmful applications and provides real-time alerts for suspicious activity. Upcoming updates include a dedicated page displaying a list of flagged apps and new alerts for apps monitoring device location or activity.