Android 15 Update Causing Issues for Pixel 6 Users: What You Need to Know

Google recently began rolling out the much-anticipated Android 15 update for Pixel devices. However, for some users, particularly those with the Pixel 6, the update has brought more trouble than improvements. Reports have surfaced of Pixel 6 devices becoming unresponsive or even bricked, leaving them unusable after the update. If you’re a Pixel 6 owner, here’s everything you need to know about the issues, potential causes, and what you should do before updating.

The Problem: Unresponsive Pixel 6 Devices After Android 15 Update

Shortly after Google began pushing the Android 15 update, several Pixel 6 owners reported serious problems. Devices that were once functioning smoothly suddenly became unresponsive, with some users even describing their phones as “bricked” — rendering them completely unusable.

One of the main culprits initially appeared to be the Private Space feature, a new addition in Android 15. This feature allows users to create a separate, secure space on their device, but several users on Reddit reported that their devices became inoperable after enabling or attempting to use it. However, as more cases surfaced, it became clear that the problem extends beyond just Private Space users.

In fact, some users experienced these issues even without interacting with Private Space at all. Android Police highlighted a case where a Pixel 6 became unresponsive without the owner using the new feature, suggesting the issue might be tied to deeper software problems within Android 15.

Possible Causes: Is Private Space the Only Problem?

While Private Space was initially thought to be the main trigger for these problems, the root cause is still uncertain. The feature, which allows users to set up separate profiles and install new instances of apps in a more secure environment, could be a part of the issue. However, given that the problem is not limited to those using Private Space, there’s likely more to it.

Some experts speculate that the issue could be related to how Android 15 manages user profiles and data. Since Private Space creates a completely separate profile on the device, it may be clashing with existing system configurations, leading to the bricking and unresponsiveness some users are experiencing.

Until Google releases an official statement or a fix, the exact cause remains unclear. For now, users are being advised to tread carefully when considering the Android 15 update for their Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro devices.

What Should Pixel 6 Users Do?

If you own a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro, it’s recommended to hold off on updating to Android 15 until Google addresses the issues. While the new update introduces some interesting features, such as Private Space and other enhancements, it doesn’t seem worth the risk of rendering your phone unusable.

Many users have reported no issues with other Pixel devices, but for Pixel 6 users, the potential downside appears much higher. Waiting for a patch or further clarification from Google could save you a lot of hassle.

If you’re determined to proceed with the update or are running into connectivity issues during the download process, having a tool to monitor your network speed can be invaluable. The Smart Transfer Network Speed Indicator app is a third-party network speed checker solution designed to give you real-time insights into your data speeds, ensuring your updates are downloaded efficiently and without interruptions.

With Smart Transfer, you can easily track your network performance and avoid stalled downloads, especially for large system updates like Android 15. The secure sharing app is easy to use and works across multiple devices, making it a great companion for data transfers.

Other Pixel Devices Affected?

While the majority of complaints have come from Pixel 6 users, there have been scattered reports of similar issues affecting the Pixel 8 Pro. Some users have also noted bugs with specific apps, such as Instagram, although these seem to be less severe than the complete unresponsiveness reported on the Pixel 6.

Overall, the Android 15 rollout has been a bit rocky for some users, but not every device is experiencing problems. If you’re using a device other than the Pixel 6, it may be safe to proceed with the update — just be sure to back up your data first.

Final Thoughts

Android 15 is packed with exciting features, but if you’re a Pixel 6 owner, it might be wise to wait before updating. The reports of devices becoming unresponsive or bricked are concerning, and Google has yet to provide a solution. If you do decide to proceed with the update, ensure your device is backed up, and consider using a tool like Smart Transfer to monitor your network speed for a smoother update experience.

As always, it’s better to be cautious with major software updates, especially when critical bugs are reported. Keep an eye on Google’s official channels for any patches or updates that might address the issues, and hopefully, a fix will be on the way soon.