Google Squashes Pixel 6 Boot Loop Bug and More with Final Android 14 Update
Google has finally delivered a much-needed fix for the dreaded boot loop bug plaguing Pixel 6 series devices with its August 2024 security update. This update, likely the last major one before Android 15 arrives, brings relief to Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a users who have been grappling with this frustrating issue.
The boot loop problem, which surfaced earlier this year, left users with unusable devices after attempting a factory reset. Many found themselves trapped in a perpetual reboot cycle or stuck in Android Recovery mode, often accompanied by an error message referencing a missing "tune2fs" file and "Unable to enable ext4 verity."
Google's initial response to the issue was met with disappointment and anger from the Pixel community. Some users, especially those without warranty coverage, were faced with hefty repair costs for what many believed to be a software-related problem. This fueled heated discussions about consumer rights and underscored the drawbacks Pixel users face due to limited repair options compared to rivals like Apple and Samsung.
The Fix is Here (Finally!)
The August 2024 update, identified by build number AP2A.240805.005, is being progressively rolled out to eligible devices. While it may take up to a week to reach everyone, it provides a welcome solution for those affected by the boot loop issue. Google's changelog explicitly mentions a "Fix for issue occasionally causing devices to be in a reboot loop after factory reset in certain conditions" for Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a.
More Than Just a Boot Loop Fix
Beyond addressing the boot loop problem, the update also introduces several other improvements:
- Display & Graphics:
- Fix for screen brightness flickering under certain conditions (Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8)
- General improvements for display performance and stability in certain conditions (Pixel 8)
- System:
- Fix for the boot loop issue after factory reset (Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a)
- User Interface:
- Fix for stability issues when switching between users with and without screen locks (Pixel 5a (5G), Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet)
Get the Update
With Android 15 on the horizon (rumored for late August or September), this update serves as a critical fix for lingering issues in the current OS version. If you haven't received the over-the-air (OTA) update notification yet, you can manually check for it by navigating to Settings > System > Software updates > System update > Check for update.