Google Pixel navigation gestures getting stuck after Android 16 update

If you have a Google Pixel phone, you're probably already enjoying the Android 16 stable update. Google rolled it out this week, to the delight of many. However, there are users for whom the firmware has caused serious headaches. More specifically, multiple Google Pixel phone owners are reporting that the navigation system isn't working correctly after updating to Android 16, describing situations such as gestures and buttons being unresponsive or getting stuck.

Related reports are quickly piling up across online communities like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), detailing the annoying glitch that's making everyday phone use far from smooth. Complaints reflect that the navigation issue is affecting both the gesture system and the classic bottom buttons (for those who still use them).

Android 16-powered Google Pixel's navigation buttons and gestures not working

This issue is critical, as moving correctly through menus and apps is a key part of the user experience on your smartphone. According to reports, the Android 16 bug is causing navigation gestures (swipe left, swipe up, etc.) to suddenly get stuck on Google Pixel devices for no apparent reason. This can happen several times a day, adding to the frustration.

People who resort to the navigation buttons aren't having any better luck. Android 16 is causing the same effect when tapping on them. This isn't a quick hiccup; users are reporting delays that can last for several seconds, with some experiencing pauses over 30 seconds long. As one frustrated Redditor put it, "My 8 Pro has become almost unusable."

The issue doesn't appear to be present on all Pixel devices running Android 16, as there are reports from people whose phones are working as usual. However, the number of current reports suggests it's not something isolated to just a few. Hopefully, Google will take note of the bug and issue a hotfix as soon as possible. If you're among those affected, you can try to speed up the arrival of a fix by submitting a bug report from your Pixel's Settings menu.