Google has rolled out a special version of Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3.2 exclusively for the Pixel 5a, its midrange smartphone that was launched in August 2021. The update, which has the build number AP11.231215.010, addresses 15 issues that affected the performance and stability of the Pixel 5a after installing the previous beta version, Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3.1.
According to Google, the issues caused the Pixel 5a to boot slowly, lag or freeze in the user interface, and crash apps. Some users reported that their phones were broken or unusable after the last update. Google discussed the patch on the Android Beta Reddit, where it also thanked the users for their feedback and bug reports.
The patch is available over-the-air (OTA) for Pixel 5a users who are already enrolled in the Android 14 Beta program. The update is rolling out gradually and users can check its availability by going to Settings > System > System updates. Google also advised users to back up their data before installing the update.
How to join the Android 14 Beta program
Users who are not enrolled in the Android 14 Beta program can join it by visiting g.co/androidbeta or tapping on this link. They will see a list of their eligible devices and a button that says Opt-in under the Pixel 5a image. By opting in, they will agree to receive pre-release versions of Android 14, which may contain errors and defects that can affect the normal functioning of their device.
Google also warned users that they will not be able to unenroll and revert back to a stable public version of Android without first wiping all locally saved data on their device. They may also encounter issues restoring a backup. Therefore, Google recommended users to review the latest release notes for Pixel phones before enrolling in Android Beta. Users who use the Pixel 5a as their daily driver may want to avoid subscribing to the beta program, as beta software is notoriously unstable.
These issues caused the Pixel 5a to boot slowly while the UI would lag or freeze:
- Issue #319569049-Previous update to Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3.1 (AP11.231215.007) broke some users’ phones.
- Issue #320448474- Mobile always slow can’t open some times.
- Issue #319955479-Android sluggish and apps slow to respond.
- Issue #319821310-The system and applications lag for a long time loading and the device freezes.
- Issue #320344977-Device-wide lag on Pixel 5a in any app or on home screen.
- Issue #321090690-Whole phone slow after last update.
- Issue #319600937-Phone working slowly.
- Issue #320795448-There is a delay in any touch UI. Apps crashing including this one after long hang time.
- Issue #319642397-Severe lag after latest update.
- Issue #321530109-Fresh bug report coming in hot.
- Issue #320395938-Phone runs very slowly after latest update.
- Issue #322320176-Android beta update is causing device to freeze.
- Issue #319908085-Chrome app froze and Pixel 5a has had horrible performance since last update.
- Issue #322075476-Beta update causing the phone to freeze apps crash.
- Issue #321780414 -Unlock or switch apps are slowly getting worse and buggy, delayed reaction to unlocking.
Pixel 5a users praise the patch
Pixel 5a users who have installed the patch have expressed their satisfaction and relief on Reddit. One user wrote, “My 5a is running 200% better.” Another user said, “This might be the most meaningful Android update of my whole life. My phone was nearly unusable for the past 3 weeks. Wow, what a glorious feeling to have the burden lifted from my shoulders.”
The patch was designed specifically for the Pixel 5a, as it seems that this model was impacted the most by Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3.1. Other Pixel models, such as the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, which are expected to launch later this year, will run on Android 14 out of the box. Android 14 is the latest version of Google’s operating system, which introduces new features such as Material You design, improved privacy and security, and better compatibility with foldable devices.