Google’s August 2025 update finally resolves a frustrating back button and gesture issue that plagued Pixel users since the Android 16 release.
TLDR:
- Google fixed a persistent bug affecting back navigation on Pixel devices running Android 16
- The glitch caused buttons and gestures to freeze or delay, frustrating users
- The August 2025 update also patches a severe remote code execution security flaw
- The fix is rolling out to Pixel 6 and newer devices
What Happened?
The Android 16 update introduced a major bug affecting the back button and gesture navigation on Google Pixel phones. For many users, these controls became slow or completely unresponsive. The August 2025 update brings a long-awaited fix and additional system improvements.
Pixel Navigation Nightmare Finally Over
Pixel users have been voicing frustrations for weeks. After installing Android 16, they began experiencing serious navigation problems on both gesture-based and traditional three-button systems. Taps on the back button sometimes failed to register, and swipes to go back would occasionally freeze or delay for over 30 seconds.
Users tried everything from clearing cache to switching launchers and restarting their phones, but nothing offered a permanent solution. Devices affected included newer models like the Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel 9 series, as well as older phones starting from the Pixel 6.
Thankfully, Google acknowledged the problem soon after it surfaced and promised a fix. While beta users saw relief in late June with Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2.1, users on the stable release had to wait until now.
August Update Fixes More Than Just Navigation
The August 2025 update finally delivers on Google’s promise. Included in the patch are:
- Fixes for both three-button and gesture navigation issues
- General improvements to system stability and performance
- A fix for a bug where scheduled dark theme would not work under certain conditions
- A critical security fix for CVE-2025-48530, a remote code execution vulnerability
That last one is a big deal. According to Google, this vulnerability could let hackers run code on a user’s device without any interaction, no tapping, no app installs, not even physical access. The August update patches this and other high-severity bugs, making it an essential install for all Pixel users.
Who’s Getting the Update?
The update is rolling out now to all Pixel phones, tablets, and foldables starting from the Pixel 6. Even devices that were previously left out of updates, like the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, are getting this patch as part of Google’s renewed support promise through October 2026.
If you’re a Pixel user, you can check for the update by going to:
Settings → System → Software updates → System update → Check for updates
What TechKV Thinks
I’ve personally dealt with this glitch on my Pixel 8, and it was infuriating. Having to restart your phone just to get a basic function like back navigation to work? That’s a terrible user experience. So I’m relieved to see Google finally address it properly.
It’s also good to see Google take security seriously. The remote code execution flaw they fixed could have been a nightmare if left unpatched. If you’re on a Pixel device, this update isn’t optional. Go grab it as soon as possible.
