Gemini Update Causes Lock Screen Freezes on Pixel Phones
Pixel phone users are reporting lock screen freezes following a recent software update from Google. The issue, primarily affecting the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 series, but also impacting some Pixel 8 Pro devices, appears to have been introduced with the March 2026 feature drop.
What’s Happening?
Users are experiencing a frustrating bug where their Pixel smartphone’s screen freezes on the lock screen after launching Gemini using the lock button. While the phone remains responsive to certain actions, such as launching Gemini, the lock screen remains frozen until a forced restart is performed using a combination of the lock and volume up buttons.
Which Devices Are Affected?
Reports indicate the issue primarily affects the following Pixel models:
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 10
- Pixel 10 Pro
- Pixel 10 Pro XL
- Pixel 10 Pro Fold
- Some Pixel 8 Pro users
What’s the Cause?
Evidence suggests the bug was introduced with Google’s March 2026 update. At least one user found a temporary fix by resetting their Android device to the February 2026 patch, but reinstalling the latest feature drop reintroduced the problem.
What is Google Doing?
Google has acknowledged the issue and confirmed they are working on a solution through the official Pixel Community Reddit account. However, a specific timeline for a fix has not yet been provided.
Should You Install the Update?
If you haven’t yet installed the latest feature drop, it’s advisable to wait until Google releases a fix. Users who have already installed the update may need to wait for the resolution to be deployed.
Gemini’s Expanding Capabilities
Despite this bug, Google continues to expand Gemini’s functionality. Recent updates have included the ability to play music from Spotify and the addition of other basic features. Gemini screen automation, initially launched on the Samsung Galaxy S26 series, is now available on the Pixel 10 series in the U.S., allowing the AI to handle tasks like ordering food, booking rides, and placing grocery orders. Usage of screen automation is tiered based on subscription level, with free users receiving approximately 5 requests per day and Ultra subscribers receiving up to 120 daily requests.
Key Takeaways
- A recent Pixel update is causing lock screen freezes for some users.
- The issue primarily affects Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 series phones, but some Pixel 8 Pro users are also impacted.
- Google is aware of the problem and working on a fix.
- Users are advised to delay installing the update until a solution is available.
- Gemini continues to gain recent features, including screen automation.