Smartphones are incredible technology, and Google’s Pixel devices are no exception. Many people who are knowledgeable about technology find this software appealing because of its advanced features and easy-to-use interface. However, it still needs its share of hiccups, particularly regarding performance issues following a system update.
Your Google Pixel phone might experience freezing or lagging after an update due to various reasons, such as software bugs, insufficient storage, outdated system software, incompatible applications, or hardware issues. These issues can significantly hinder the smooth functioning of the device, leading to a more-than-optimal user experience. Fortunately, practical solutions include closing background apps, restarting the device, managing storage, updating system software, or addressing potential hardware problems.
Ready to dive in? Let’s explore how to keep your Google Pixel running smoothly, even after those pesky updates.
Common Causes for Google Pixel Freezing and Lagging
Understanding why your Pixel may be experiencing performance issues after an update is the first step toward a resolution. Here are some factors that could be causing the problem:
a. Software Bugs
The device could malfunction due to a software bug. This usually happens when an app or software gets updated, causing conflict while trying to run multiple applications simultaneously.
b. Insufficient Storage
An update requires a certain amount of available storage. If the device doesn’t have enough memory space, the update may not install successfully, leading to issues such as lagging and freezing.
c. Outdated System Software
An outdated system software could cause your Google Pixel to freeze and lag after an update. If you update an app, it might not work with your current system software.
d. Incompatible Applications
Incompatible applications may also lead to freezing and lagging issues. If an app update causes the problem, it could be due to the app being incompatible with the device’s software.
e. Hardware Problems
Hardware issues, such as exposure to hot weather, use of incompatible cables and chargers, or internal damage, can cause freezing and lagging problems.
Recommended Solutions to Random Freezes and Lags
After identifying the possible causes of the issue, you can start troubleshooting. Here are some practical solutions to consider:
1. Closing Background Apps
Background apps can consume a significant amount of your phone’s resources, slowing down the system and potentially causing it to freeze and lag. Closing these apps can free up resources and improve device performance. Follow these steps:

- To open Quick Settings, swipe down twice from the top of the screen.
- To view the active apps running in the background, tap the number located next to “Settings and Power” at the bottom right of the screen.
- To close active apps, tap on ‘Stop’ for each.
2. Restarting the Phone
Performing a soft reset by restarting the phone can give your device’s operating system a fresh start, potentially resolving to freeze and lagging issues. Here’s how to do it:

- To access the options, press the Power and Volume Up buttons.
- To restart your phone, select the ‘Restart’ option and allow the process to finish. Please be patient while your phone restarts.
3. Checking and Managing Storage
Low storage space can lead to slow performance and issues such as freezing and lagging. Check your device’s storage and free up space if necessary. To do this:

- Swipe up from the main screen to show all apps.
- Go to ‘Settings.’
- Select ‘Storage’ and view the used space.
- If necessary, tap ‘Free up space’ to remove unused items.
4. Updating System Software
Outdated software can cause freezing and lagging issues. Updating your device’s software can resolve these problems:

- Swipe up from the Home screen and go to ‘Settings.’
- Select ‘System.’
- Tap ‘System update.’
- Tap ‘Check for updates from the System update history prompt.
- To install the update, follow the instructions displayed on the screen.
5. Checking Hardware

Hardware issues can also affect device performance. If you suspect a hardware problem, consider taking your device to a reliable service center for a thorough inspection.
Final Troubleshooting Tips
While it’s easy to assume that an update is the cause of your device’s performance issues, it’s possible that the problem was present before the update, and the symptoms just happened to emerge afterward. This could be the case if your device were previously dropped or exposed to liquid, leading to physical or liquid damage.
By following the above troubleshooting steps, you should be able to rectify most of the issues related to freezing and lagging.
If none of the suggested solutions work, seek help from a professional or contact Google’s customer support for further assistance.
It is crucial to regularly update and maintain your Google Pixel to prevent any issues and ensure optimal performance. This can prevent many issues from occurring in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why does my Google Pixel freeze and lag after an update?
This issue has several potential causes, including software glitches, insufficient storage, outdated system software, incompatible applications, or hardware problems. Updates sometimes cause conflicts between the operating system and apps, leading to performance issues.
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How can I prevent my Google Pixel from freezing and lagging after an update?
You can take several steps to prevent these issues. For example, always ensure your device has sufficient storage before updating, close background apps that may consume resources, and keep your system software updated. If the problem persists, consider checking for incompatible applications or potential hardware problems.
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How can I stop my Google Pixel from freezing while using an app?
If a specific app is causing your phone to freeze, you may need to close it or even uninstall and reinstall it. Remember to update your apps to ensure they remain compatible with your system software. If the issue continues, the app may not be compatible with the latest system update.
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What should I do if my Google Pixel lags due to insufficient storage?
If your phone is lagging due to insufficient storage, try clearing the cache, deleting unwanted files, and uninstalling unnecessary apps. Managing your storage can help improve the performance of your device and prevent issues like lagging and freezing.
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Could hardware problems cause my Google Pixel to freeze and lag after an update?
Yes, hardware issues can trigger performance problems. If your phone was previously dropped, exposed to liquid, or otherwise damaged, these issues might surface after an update. In this case, consider getting your device checked at a trusted service center.