Pixel users Archives

AppWizard

August 2, 2026

4 Pre-Installed Google Pixel Apps You Can Safely Delete

Users can optimize their Google Pixel devices by disabling or uninstalling certain pre-installed apps that may no longer serve a purpose. 1. Google Chrome: Users can disable it to hide its icon and prevent updates, especially if they prefer a different browser. Recent regulatory changes may allow some users to uninstall it entirely. 2. Google Photos: While it offers features like AI enhancements, it can consume significant storage, particularly after the discontinuation of unlimited photo storage for Pixel users. Disabling it may affect the camera app's functionality, but it can be re-enabled later. 3. Google Books: Users can typically uninstall this app if they prefer alternatives like Kindle or Libby. However, removing it may restrict access to purchased ebooks or audiobooks. 4. YouTube Music: This app may be unnecessary for users already using other music services. Depending on the device, users may be able to disable or uninstall it to free up space.

AppWizard

August 2, 2026

Your Samsung phone already has something better than Android 17 App Bubbles — here’s how to use it

Android 17 introduces App Bubbles, allowing users to create floating bubbles for apps on their screen for easier access while using other applications. Samsung Galaxy phones have a similar feature called Pop-Up View, which offers a more refined multitasking experience with resizable, floating windows. Pop-Up View allows users to interact with multiple apps simultaneously without disrupting the primary app, making it useful for tasks like watching videos while chatting. Users can access Pop-Up View through the Recents menu, a swipe gesture, or the Edge Panel. The swipe gesture is preferred for its speed, though it may require practice. Pop-Up View supports individual window resizing and maintains visibility of app contents in the background, unlike App Bubbles, which can obscure the screen.

AppWizard

August 1, 2026

Android 17 QPR1 Beta 8 is here, and Pixel users get a much-needed audio fix

Google has released Android 17 QPR1 Beta 8 for Pixel devices, addressing a significant audio issue that caused crackling, distortion, and loud static during media playback and notifications. The update, build CP31.260623.010, focuses on improving system stability and fixing bugs ahead of the official Pixel Feature Drop in September. The audio glitch had generated over 30 reports in Google's issue tracker. The primary fix involves managing buffers within the audio framework. Beta 8 is available for eligible Pixel devices in the Android Beta Program, including the Pixel 6 series to the Pixel 10 lineup. However, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will not receive Android 17 QPR2, and the stable QPR1 release in September will be their last major software update.

AppWizard

July 21, 2026

Google’s latest Android 17 beta fixes Bluetooth headaches and Gemini crashes

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 1 has launched, initiating the testing phase for the Pixel Feature Drop set for December 2026. This beta aims to fix issues affecting Pixel users, including Bluetooth reconnection failures, media control glitches on the lock screen, unexpected reboots when launching the Gemini AI assistant, and touch input bugs. The update has the build number CP41.260701.005 and supports various Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Pixel 8 series, Pixel 9 family, and Pixel 10 models. Users can access it via the Android Beta Program or Android Emulator. Owners of the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro will no longer receive beta updates as they have reached their update limits.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

Google Pixel May Finally Be Adding A Feature Every Other Android Phone Has

Recent developments indicate that an app lock feature for Google Pixel phones is in the works, allowing users to lock individual apps independently and potentially use biometric verification instead of traditional PINs and passwords. Currently, Pixel devices offer a feature called Private Space, accessible through settings, which creates a secure interface for apps but requires a separate password and does not allow notifications from locked apps. Users can enhance app security using in-app encryption options available in various applications or by utilizing third-party app lock solutions from the Play Store. Additionally, the Files by Google app provides a Safe Folder feature that allows users to secure specific data with a password.

AppWizard

July 7, 2026

Pixel users: Is Google Recorder refusing to save your recordings?

A segment of Google Pixel users is experiencing issues with the Google Recorder app, specifically that recordings are failing to save. A user on the Google Pixel subreddit reported that the app initiates recordings but does not store them, and several other users have confirmed similar experiences. Despite attempts to troubleshoot, such as clearing the app's cache and restarting devices, the issue persists for some users. However, others report that the app functions correctly on their devices. A poll on the subreddit shows that 60% of respondents are having issues with the app.