Google’s August Update Fixes Pixel Navigation Bug Affecting Android 16 Users

Pixel users, relief is on the way. Google is pushing out its August software update to resolve a particularly frustrating bug that rendered navigation features nearly unusable for some. Since the Android 16 release in June, complaints have poured in from Pixel owners reporting sluggish or completely unresponsive navigation buttons—and the problem wasn’t limited to older models.

Here’s everything you need to know about the issue, the fix, and what you can do in the meantime to ensure a smoother smartphone experience.

What Was the Problem?

The core issue stemmed from broken three-button navigation on several Pixel phones running Android 16. Users reported delays of up to 30 seconds for taps to register, particularly when using the back button. In many cases, it took multiple taps before any action occurred, creating a disjointed and frustrating user experience.

And it didn’t stop there. Others experienced issues with gesture navigation—the swipe-based system that replaced traditional buttons. For some, swipe gestures failed to register entirely, leaving them stuck or forced to restart apps.

Affected models reportedly include a wide range—from older Pixel 6 devices to the latest Pixel 9 series.

Google’s Response: A Much-Needed Fix in August

According to Google's official release notes, the August update addresses multiple issues, including:

• A fix for 3-button navigation responsiveness issues

• A gesture navigation fix that resolves swipe detection errors in certain conditions

• A solution for the scheduled dark theme bug, which has been forcing users to manually activate dark mode since the March update

The update will be delivered in phases over the next week, so not all users will receive it at once. It will be available to all Pixel devices compatible with Android 16, ranging from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 9 lineup.

While bugs and delayed updates can be frustrating, many users take the opportunity to upgrade or switch devices when software issues persist. If you’re one of them, there’s no need to worry about losing your valuable data during the process.

Enter Smart Transfer—a reliable, third-party simple transfer app designed for fast and secure data migration between Android and iOS devices.

Whether you're moving from one Pixel to another or shifting to a completely different platform, Smart Transfer’s android file transfer feature helps you seamlessly transfer:

• Contacts

• Photos and videos

• Messages

• Music

• App data

It’s a simple, cable-free solution that ensures your digital life moves with you, even if your phone doesn’t always behave the way it should. I was able to copy my data without any hassle. 

Patience Required: Rollout May Take Time

While the fix is promising, don’t expect the update to hit your phone immediately. Google confirmed that the rollout will be gradual, with some users needing to wait several days before the update becomes available for download and installation.

In the meantime, consider enabling gesture navigation if only your buttons are affected—or vice versa—as a temporary workaround. And keep an eye on your software update settings to grab the fix as soon as it’s available for your device.

A Step Forward for Pixel Stability

Glitches like these are rare for Google’s Pixel phones, but when they happen, they can significantly impact user satisfaction. Thankfully, Google has responded with a timely update that addresses both navigation and dark mode issues.

For those tired of waiting—or ready for a smoother, more reliable experience—tools like Smart Transfer make the process of switching devices painless. As Android evolves, staying flexible and prepared with the right tools ensures you’re never stuck with a bug you can’t fix.