Pixel freezes finally fixed
Google has started rolling out Android 17 QPR2 Beta 7.1 for Pixel phones, and it carries just one fix. Beta 7.1 is meant to stop that. The update carries build number CP41.260831.019. It arrives only a week after QPR2 Beta 7, which is a shorter gap than Google usually leaves between beta builds. Meanwhile, Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 is still awaited, with Beta 1 having rolled out on October 2.
It targets the severe UI stuttering and multi-second freezes that have frustrated many Pixel owners since the QPR1 update. Google’s Mishaal Rahman has explained the bug in more detail. The freezes happen when the phone runs short on free memory and the system keeps clearing and reloading data from storage. In plain terms, a Pixel juggling several apps could lock up for a few seconds at a time. Those who would rather avoid beta software can wait for the stable QPR2 release, which Google plans to bring to Pixel phones later this year.
Beta 7.1 is available for the Pixel 6a, the Pixel 7 series, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold and every Pixel since, up to the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL and Pixel 11 Pro Fold.
To get the build, users need to sign up for the Android Beta for Pixel program. Backing up the phone before installing is a good idea, as betas can still throw up fresh bugs.