The latest update for Google Pixel and Nexus phones, Android Nougat 7.1.2 is here, but you should not update immediately.
A new software update can be great for your smartphone, as it brings with it security patches and resolves bugs, as well as brings in new features that enhance the performance of the smartphone. However, the case of the latest Nougat 7.1.2 update for Google Pixel and Google Nexus phones, it is better to wait for some time and hold off the update.
Why Not Update
The latest update to Android Nougat, 7.1.2 version is said to break the core feature of the Google Pixel and Nexus smartphones, namely the fingerprint sensor of the phone. There are several reports on the product forums of the Google Pixel and the Google Nexus, that the latest update cripples the feature on the Pixel, the Pixel XL, the Nexus 5X and the Nexus 6P, making the fingerprint sensor feature useless.
Unlocking Crippled
Users of the phone have reported that after the update to Nougat 7.1.2 version, they have not been able to unlock the phones using the fingerprint sensor located at the rear of the smartphone. The new update also does not allow users to register fresh fingerprints and deleting the old fingerprints also does not work or solve the problem.
Swipe Gestures
However,, the swiping down gesture for pulling down the notifications shade is still operating well even after the update has been installed on the Google Pixel and the Google Nexus phones. This shows that the sensor is not totally bricked due to the new update 7.1.2. It is possible that there is a bug that was overlooked while making this update.
Fixing Things
It is not known whether Google will offer a fix for the problem and restore the functionality of the fingerprint sensor for the smartphones. It is also not known whether the problem is isolated to a few devices or whether it is a widespread one. The fingerprint sensor on the smartphone is one of the safest ways of locking down the Google Pixel or the Google Nexus phones. The feature is also very important for authenticating payments made through Android Pay.
Protecting Your Identity
For users who have already updated their Pixel or Nexus phones to the latest Android Nougat 7.1.2 version, resulting in the fingerprint sensor issue, it is advised that they use a strong passcode. It is better to ditch the simple four-digit pin and opt for some complex pattern in order to protect the smartphone. If you have not yet updated the device and receive a prompt requesting the 7.1.2 update, don’t be in a hurry to do so.
Good News
However, there is some good news, as the community manager of Pixel seems to be aware of the issue and they are attempting to obtain as much of information as possible. They are attempting to find the cause of the issue, so it will probably be identified and a fix will be offered in the form of another update very soon.