Pixel Archives

BetaBeacon

September 28, 2026

The Pixel 11 series has a gaming problem, and Google’s new graphics default is to blame

ANGLE is the default OpenGL ES implementation on the Pixel 11 series, introduced in the September 2026 update. It translates calls to Vulkan and is meant to improve compatibility and stability, but it is causing significant microstutter and lower frame rates in games like Genshin Impact, COD Mobile, and Asphalt Legends. The default ANGLE rendering on the Pixel 11 series is resulting in poor gaming performance.

AppWizard

September 28, 2026

Create My Widget: Google’s AI app for custom Android widgets is available on the Play Store

Google has launched a new application called "Create My Widget," available on the Play Store since September 24, 2026. This app allows users to create Android widgets using plain language instead of pre-defined templates. It is currently compatible with Pixel and recent Galaxy smartphones, with plans for broader compatibility in the future. The app uses Gemini technology to generate widgets based on user descriptions and aggregates information from various Google services. The widget creation process involves describing the desired widget, receiving suggestions from Gemini, and customizing the widget before placing it on the home screen. The app currently supports categories such as Combo, Weather Alerts, World Clock, Daily Overview, Important Appointments, and Markets, with future updates expected to include additional categories. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 has been reported as incompatible, and a version for Google's upcoming Chromebook successor, "Googlebooks," is anticipated to launch in early October 2026.

AppWizard

September 27, 2026

5 of my favorite Android features you won’t find on Samsung or Pixel phones

Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra has a maximum charging speed of 60W, while the Pixel 11 Pro family reaches up to 45W. The OnePlus 15 offered 80W charging, and brands like HUAWEI and Xiaomi have devices capable of 120W charging or more. IR blasters are now rare in flagship devices, with the OnePlus 15 being an exception, while Xiaomi's Second Space allows for a separate user profile at the OS level. Motorola's Moto Actions use hardware sensors for gesture-based controls, enabling actions without waking the display. The Nothing Phone's Glyph system features a dot-matrix display for app-specific alerts, contrasting with Google's HiLight LED indicator.

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

Google Photos causes headaches: users say editing pictures makes the app ‘unresponsive’

Pixel users are experiencing issues with Google Photos, particularly with the app becoming unresponsive after editing images. Reports on Reddit indicate that actions such as cropping can lead to the app not responding to commands. Users have shared similar frustrations, and despite Google's engagement and suggested solutions, many have found them ineffective. The problems may be linked to a recent update that introduced new editing features, including Gemini Spark integration, "Moods," and a "redact pen." A quick resolution to these issues appears unlikely, and users may have to cope with the current challenges until a software update is released.

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

A Google Photos bug is preventing users from sharing, editing, and deleting pictures

Pixel phone users are experiencing issues with the Google Photos editor, where functionalities such as sharing, deleting, and editing become unresponsive after photo edits, particularly after cropping or rotating images. This problem affects multiple Pixel models, including the Pixel 8, 9, 10, and 11 series. Users have reported that these options work correctly if no edits are made. Google is reportedly working on enhancing the editing capabilities in the Photos app, but addressing the current bug is a priority.

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

Android 17 QPR1: What Pixel Gets

Android 17 QPR1 began its stable rollout in the United States on September 15, 2026, coinciding with Google’s September Pixel Drop. This update introduces the Pause Point feature, which temporarily halts access to a selected app for 10 seconds, allowing users to reconsider their choice. The update is compatible with Pixel phones from the Pixel 6 through the Pixel 10a generations, as well as the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold models. The rollout is staged, leading to varying delivery times for users. Pause Point imposes a 10-second delay when accessing a configured app, offering options like breathing exercises and alternative app suggestions. Disabling Pause Point requires a phone restart. Scam protection features vary by region, with Gboard scam warnings initially exclusive to the U.S. for Pixel 6 and newer devices, while notification-based Scam Detection has expanded to nine additional regions, excluding Spain. Android 17 QPR1 also includes a refresh of the Pixel interface, adding a new Keyboard tile to Quick Settings and improving visual aesthetics with enhanced translucent and blurred backgrounds. Screen recording defaults to capturing a single app, and the VIPs widget has been upgraded for easier calling and messaging. Google and Audible have collaborated to provide Harry Potter-themed packs for Pixel users, featuring customized wallpapers and icons, along with a two-month Audible trial, though eligibility conditions are unspecified.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6 is rolling out: unexpected reboots and kernel crash fixes lead the way

Google is rolling out Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6 to Pixel testers to fix various issues, including crashes and unexpected reboots. The update addresses a reboot issue with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold related to third-party apps when opening the camera viewfinder. It follows the release of QPR2 Beta 5 and achieves Platform Stability, with all devices aligned on build numbers. Notable fixes include resolving a system kernel crash during simultaneous access to the camera and microphone, a visual regression affecting content display, a blank screensaver issue while charging, problems with dismissing locked applications, and device crashes during scrolling. Google has also temporarily removed blurred notifications on the lock screen to address certain bugs.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Motorola just gave privacy fans a big reason to consider the Signature 27

Motorola's Signature 27 will be one of the first phones powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset. GrapheneOS has confirmed initial support for the Signature 27, expanding beyond Google Pixel phones. GrapheneOS is based on AOSP and focuses on privacy, with optional Google Play services running sandboxed. The Signature 27 features a revamped camera layout and includes premium enhancements such as Audio by B&O. Motorola has not disclosed the release date or pricing for the Signature 27.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Google rolling out Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6 for Pixel

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6 has been released for Pixel devices, following Beta 5. This update aims to improve user experience by fixing several issues. Users can report bugs via the Android Beta Feedback app. The version number is CP41.260831.007. The beta is compatible with various devices, including Pixel 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Tablet, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold, and 10a. Pixel 11 series devices are not supported in this beta release. Users can join the Android Beta Program for over-the-air updates.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Easy Delivery Co, Kingdom Rush 5, Cyberlords, more

Today on Google Play, notable app and game deals include: - Easy Delivery Co. - A simulation game. - Human Fall Flat - A physics-based puzzle platformer. - FrogBoy - An adventure game. - Kingdom Rush 5: Alliance TD - A tower defense game. - Kingdom Rush Vengeance TD Game - Another tower defense game in the Kingdom Rush series. - MAYATCH - A puzzle game. - Cyberlords – Arcology PREMIUM - An RPG set in a futuristic world. - Laser Tanks: Pixel RPG - A pixel art RPG. Additionally, TCL NXTPAPER Android phones are available at discounts of up to 30%.