Android 15 Upgrade Causes Freezing Problems on Certain Pixel 6 Devices

Android 15 Upgrade Causes Freezing Problems on Certain Pixel 6 Devices

Android 15 Upgrade Causes Freezing Problems on Certain Pixel 6 Devices


# A Grave Case of the Mondays for These Older Pixel Phones: Pixel 6 Series Struggles with Android 15 Issues

Google’s Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro owners are encountering a challenging beginning to the week, as reports emerge regarding complications linked to the latest Android 15 update. What should have been an exhilarating enhancement has turned into a maddening ordeal for some, with devices becoming unresponsive or even rendered useless after activating a certain feature known as “Private Spaces.” This predicament follows a series of challenges that have affected the Pixel 6 series throughout 2024, raising concerns about the reliability of Google’s older devices.

## Key Information to Consider

– **Users on Reddit** have shared experiences of difficulties with the Pixel 6/6 Pro following the Android 15 update.
– The problem seems to be associated with the **Private Spaces** feature, which is causing some devices to become unresponsive or bricked.
– The Pixel 6 series faced a similar ordeal in July 2024, where a factory reset bug rendered devices inoperable.

## The Android 15 Update: A Blessing or a Curse?

Google’s Android 15 update, which began rolling out to Pixel devices last week, was anticipated to introduce numerous new security features and enhancements. However, for certain Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro users, the update has proven to be more of an obstacle than an asset.

### The Issue: Private Spaces Rendering Devices Inoperable

The dilemma appears to be connected to the **Private Spaces** feature, a recent addition in Android 15 that permits users to conceal sensitive apps and information. While intended to boost privacy, it seems to be causing serious challenges for some users.

A Reddit user known as **GegoByte** reported that activating Private Spaces on their Pixel 6 after upgrading to Android 15 caused their device to become entirely unresponsive. In their post, they cautioned fellow users:

> “Avoid enabling the private space feature if you upgrade to Android 15. I unlocked the private space area, launched an app I had installed there, and it bricked my Pixel 6.”

The user mentioned that they were unable to power their device back on or reboot it using the conventional methods provided by Google. Another user proposed trying to access the boot menu, but GegoByte indicated that even this was not an option.

### Additional Accounts Emerge

Regrettably, GegoByte’s situation is not a singular occurrence. Another Reddit user disclosed that their **Pixel 6 Pro** ceased functioning after updating to Android 15, despite retaining a 45% battery charge. Connecting the device to a charger proved fruitless, and Google’s troubleshooting techniques also failed to bring the phone back to life. This issue notably arose after enabling Private Spaces.

While these reports raise alarms, it’s essential to emphasize that they do not seem to be widespread. Some users have successfully updated to Android 15 and activated Private Spaces without encountering any problems. However, for those affected, the issue is grave, rendering their devices inoperable.

## A Challenging Year for the Pixel 6 Series

The Pixel 6 series has experienced a tough 2024. Earlier this year, users faced a problem with factory resets that bricked devices. After attempting a factory reset, some users encountered a “Cannot load Android system” error, which left their phones unusable. This problem was eventually fixed with an **August 2024 security patch**, but it left numerous users feeling exasperated.

Now, with the Android 15 update bringing further complications for some users, it appears that the Pixel 6 series is again under scrutiny for negative reasons.

## Recommended Actions

If you are a Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro user who has upgraded to Android 15, the most prudent course of action is to **refrain from enabling Private Spaces** for the time being. If your device has already been impacted, your best course of action is to reach out to **Google Support** for assistance.

For those who haven’t faced any complications, it’s advisable to remain cautious. While the problem does not seem to be widespread, it’s always preferable to err on the side of caution.

## What’s Coming Up?

Android Central has contacted Google for their response regarding the problems tied to Android 15 and Private Spaces. As of now, Google has not issued an official comment, but we will update this article when more information is available.

Meanwhile, it’s worth mentioning that Android 15 does bring several significant security enhancements to Pixel devices. Under the framework of **Theft Protection**, users can now benefit from features like **Theft Detection Lock**, **Offline Lock**, and **Remote Lock**, which are intended to secure personal data in the event of theft. Additionally, the **October 2024 feature drop** introduced exciting new tools such as **Audio Magic Eraser** and a **Gemini Extension for Pixel Screenshots**, helping older Pixel devices feel contemporary.

However, these new features may not be sufficient to alleviate the frustration of