What you need to know
- Pixel users on the Google Pixel subreddit report 5G connectivity problems shortly after downloading Android 17.
- Users state their device will no longer hold 5G, as their device resorts to LTE; however, some have found relief by placing their phone in Repair Mode and restarting.
- Other Android 17 issues affecting Pixels include vanishing home screen widgets, but Google states it’s working on a fix for that.
New software can often come with a handful of issues. Android 17 is no exception, as Pixel users report connectivity problems.
Shortly after Android 17 launched, users on the Google Pixel subreddit reported problems connecting to 5G on various Pixel phones (via Android Authority). The original poster states they downloaded Android 17 on their Pixel 9 Pro and “ever since the update, I’m only ever on LTE.” The user states they’ve always managed to keep a consistent 5G connection on their phone. This update has changed things, and not for the better.
Android Central’s Take
Pixels suffering from connectivity issues have occurred in the past. Typically, in our reports, it’s happened after monthly security patches. I’ve seen users dreading Android 17 now, stating they’ll wait for a proper fix. It’s not a bad idea, especially if you depend on those cell connections. Despite users discovering a fix on their own, hopefully Google is looking into this to avoid users going out of their way.
Others have said the same, reporting this issue on a Pixel 10 Pro, 8a, and 6a. LTE is the only phone data connectivity users can manage; however, issues extend beyond connectivity. One user’s report says, “After the update my esim disappeared and would not connect to any mobile network.” One post says a user lost 5G and 4G connectivity, pushing their phone to lean on its satellite network.
A Google Support member responded to the thread, offering a document that could help the users resolve their 5G connectivity problems. However, the original poster says they found relief through a fellow user’s response. The user says they restored their 5G by putting their Pixel 9 Pro in repair mode and restarting.
A bumpy start
Android 17 launched on Tuesday, and Google was quick to begin its rollout to eligible devices. Essentially, it was its Pixels that were first on the list. While the latest OS offers a selection of new features and even stronger security/threat detection capabilities, it hasn’t been flawless. Recently, more Pixel users have reported missing widgets after downloading Android 17.
Users said their widgets have vanished, and it’s not clear how to get them back. This problem isn’t widespread, at least not in these early reports. What’s more, it seems confined to phones with a work profile configured. Luckily, Google’s been quick with this issue. The company has responded to reports, stating it’s working on a fix for a future patch.
Joining Android 17’s release was a June Pixel Drop. Among the highlights were “Bubbles” and the “Bubble Bar.” The latter matters for Pixel Folds; however, the Bubbles feature in general is about multitasking between apps in a floating menu on your device. Emergency detection features get a sharing upgrade for Pixel Watches, too.