Solving Google Pixel 9 Bluetooth Pairing Dropping Issues Quickly

Solving Google Pixel 9 Bluetooth Pairing and Dropping Issues Quickly

Users of the newly released Google Pixel 9 Pro series, including the Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, have been reporting a slew of Bluetooth connectivity issues. These problems range from poor Bluetooth range and static sound to frequent disconnections and difficulties connecting to vehicles via Android Auto.

Identifying the Issues

The complaints are widespread, with many users noting significant reductions in Bluetooth range compared to previous models. For instance, a user on the Google Issue Tracker reported that the Bluetooth range on their Pixel 9 Pro Fold is much shorter than on their previous Galaxy Z Fold 3, with connections dropping when the phone is just a short distance away.

Temporary Fix: Disabling Ultra-Wideband (UWB)

One of the most effective temporary solutions involves disabling the Ultra-Wideband (UWB) feature on the affected devices. UWB is a technology present in the Pixel 9 Pro series but not in the base Pixel 9, which seems to be unaffected by these Bluetooth issues.

To disable UWB, users can follow these steps:

• Go to Settings
• Select Connected devices
• Choose Connection preferences
• Disable Ultra-Wideband
• Restart the device

This workaround has been tested and confirmed by Android Police, where disabling UWB significantly improved Bluetooth performance. For example, a test showed that with UWB disabled, the Pixel 9 Pro could maintain a stable Bluetooth connection even when the phone was on the opposite side of the house or outside, whereas with UWB enabled, the connection would drop after passing through just two interior walls.

Other Troubleshooting Steps

In addition to disabling UWB, several other troubleshooting steps can be taken to address Bluetooth issues on the Pixel 9 Pro series:

Rebooting the Device

A simple reboot can often resolve temporary data issues within the Android operating system. Users should bring up the Power Menu and tap on the Restart option. This can help flush out temporary data that might be causing the Bluetooth problems.

Safe Mode

If rebooting does not work, users can try booting their device into Safe Mode. This can help identify if a third-party application is causing the conflict with the Bluetooth service. To enter Safe Mode, users should long-press the Power button from the Power Menu and follow the on-screen instructions. If Bluetooth works in Safe Mode but not after rebooting, it indicates a third-party app is likely the culprit, and users should uninstall apps one by one to identify the problematic application.

Reset Bluetooth and WiFi

Another solution is to reset the Bluetooth and WiFi module. This can be done by:

• Launching the Settings application
• Searching for the word "reset"
• Selecting Reset Bluetooth and WiFi
• Confirming the action

This will delete all data related to WiFi networks and paired Bluetooth devices, so users will need to reconnect to their networks and devices afterward. However, this can clear out potentially corrupt data that may be causing the issues.

Clearing Application Cache and Data

For more persistent issues, users can try clearing the cache and data of the Bluetooth services. This involves:

• Launching the Settings application
• Finding the Apps menu
• Tapping on See all apps and then the three-dot menu icon
• Selecting Show system apps
• Finding the Bluetooth apps (usually labeled as such)
• Clearing the cache and storage for each Bluetooth app
• Restarting the device to allow Android to set everything up again.

Official Response and Future Fixes

Google is aware of the Bluetooth issues, as indicated by an acknowledged thread on the Google Issue Tracker started on August 26. While there has been no official fix yet, the company is likely working on a solution given the acknowledgment of the problem.

In the meantime, these troubleshooting steps can provide temporary relief for users experiencing Bluetooth connectivity issues with their Google Pixel 9 Pro series devices.