In the wake of the latest Google Play system update, several Android phone users, particularly those with Pixel devices, have encountered a slew of storage-related malfunctions. The complications, surfacing post-January 2024 update, include applications crashing, challenges capturing screenshots, and erratic performance of external storage. Google has confirmed these complications and is crafting a remedy, although the release timeframe remains undisclosed.
Temporary Fix Available
While Pixel owners await a permanent solution, Google has provided a temporary fix that prevents data loss and restores storage functionality. This method necessitates the use of Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a suite of developer tools, to remove the two system elements responsible for the glitches.
Step-by-Step Workaround
To apply the interim fix, users must activate Developer options and USB debugging on their devices. The corrective action involves using ADB commands to uninstall two specific system components and then rebooting the smartphone. The commands required for this operation are “./adb uninstall com.google.android.media.swcodec” and “./adb uninstall com.google.android.media”.
Google’s official support channels offer comprehensive guidance on executing this procedure. Following the workaround, it’s advised to deactivate USB debugging and Developer options, securing the phone until Google distributes a steadfast resolution to the bug.
Pixel users who have suffered from these post-update issues can look forward to a fix that doesn’t necessitate waiting for the next system update or risking data loss. Until Google delivers a definitive solution, this manual intervention will alleviate the immediate inconveniences of the flawed system update.
