Google’s March 2026 Pixel Drop, while largely well-received by users, has introduced a pair of issues affecting both Pixel phones and the Pixel Watch. Reports indicate some Pixel phones are experiencing freezes on the lock screen, while Pixel Watch owners are encountering inaccuracies in step counting and calorie burn estimations. These issues come as Google continues to aggressively integrate its Gemini AI into the Pixel ecosystem, expanding features like Satellite SOS and Express Pay.
The lock screen freezing issue on Pixel smartphones has gained enough attention that the Pixel team has begun engaging with affected users on platforms like Reddit. Users report their devices becoming unresponsive on the lock screen after the recent updates, though the phones aren’t completely dead. The screen essentially hangs, requiring a forced restart to regain functionality. One user described the issue, stating: “My screen freezes. I can feel haptic feedback, but the display remains in Always-on mode. Pressing the power button, volume rockers, and fingerprint sensor provides haptic feedback, but nothing happens, so I have to restart the phone.”
A potential fix has emerged from user reports: checking for the latest Google Play system updates and installing any available updates. This suggests that discrepancies between the Android system version and the versions of Google’s services could be a contributing factor. Ensuring all components are up-to-date may resolve the issue for some users.
Pixel Watch Step Counting and Calorie Estimates Inaccurate
Alongside the phone issues, Pixel Watch owners are reporting problems with step counting accuracy following the March update. Users are finding that the distance tracked is too long, and the estimated calories burned are significantly inflated, even doubled in some cases. While individual measurements may appear correct, the cumulative data within the Fitbit app is inaccurate. For example, one user reported that two walks of 1,500 and 3,000 steps were measured correctly individually, but the app displayed a total of nearly 10,000 steps.
This step-counting issue is a known problem, and owners of LTE versions of the Pixel Watch series are expressing relief that they haven’t yet received the problematic March 2026 update. The issue highlights the challenges of ensuring accuracy in wearable fitness tracking, particularly after software updates.
The March Pixel Drop also brought expanded features to the Pixel Watch, including the geographic expansion of Satellite SOS to Canada, Europe, Alaska, and Hawaii, offering emergency satellite messaging at no additional charge for two years after activation. Standalone earthquake alerts, drawing on both ShakeAlert and Android detection systems, were also added for Pixel Watch 2 and newer models. Express Pay allows for quicker contactless payments on Pixel Watch 2 and newer, and one-handed gesture controls were extended to the Pixel Watch 3.
Security Enhancements Across the Pixel Ecosystem
Beyond the specific issues, the March update introduced several security enhancements across the Pixel ecosystem. The Pixel Watch now alerts owners if their connected phone is left behind and automatically locks the handset when the Bluetooth connection is broken. A connected watch and phone also enable faster biometric identity checks on Pixel 8 Pro and newer devices. These features demonstrate Google’s focus on improving security and convenience for Pixel users.
Google is also deepening Gemini’s integration within the Pixel ecosystem. The update allows Gemini to handle tasks within apps, offering a more seamless AI experience. The March Pixel Drop also includes updates to Now Playing, At a Glance, custom icons, and other features, signaling Google’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
As Google addresses these reported issues with the Pixel phones and Pixel Watch, users are encouraged to ensure their devices are running the latest software and to report any further problems through official channels. The company has not yet issued a formal statement regarding a timeline for a fix, but the engagement with users on platforms like Reddit suggests they are actively investigating the matter.
The next update from Google is expected in June 2026, and will likely address these issues and introduce further refinements to the Pixel experience. Users can find more information and support resources on the official Google Pixel help center.
Have you experienced these issues with your Pixel phone or Pixel Watch? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.
