If you own a Pixel 6 and have recently upgraded to Android 15, there’s an important warning about the “Private Space” feature. One user reported a major issue after activating this setting on their phone. Once they unlocked the Private Space and installed an app, their phone stopped functioning. Attempts to reboot or turn it on again failed, essentially turning the Pixel 6 into an unusable device.
The “Private Space” feature in Android 15 is meant to create a secure, isolated area for apps and files, but this option seems to cause serious problems on Pixel 6 devices. While Google hasn’t confirmed exactly how extensive the issue is, its existence warns us to exercise some caution when using the feature, particularly on a Pixel 6.
If you’ve already switched on the Private Space on your Pixel 6, it’s best to turn it off until Google releases more information or a fix. Here’s how to turn it off safely.
How to disable Private Space on your Pixel 6
If you’ve already enabled Private Space on your Pixel 6 and want to turn it off, follow these steps to minimize the risk of any issues:
- Go to Settings: Start by opening your device’s “Settings” app.
- Navigate to Security & Privacy: Scroll down and select “Security & Privacy” from the menu options.
- Find Private Space: In the Security & Privacy section, locate the “Private Space” setting.
- Turn off the feature: Select the Private Space option, then follow the prompts to disable or lock the feature.
This action should help prevent any issues with your phone until Google addresses the problem more thoroughly.
What is Private Space in Android 15?
Private Space, the idea was, would also provide an additional layer of protection for Android devices by adding an extra section of the phone that stores its apps and data separately from the main space. It’s a good way to hide apps and files on your phone that you don’t want exposed to your phone’s normal user interface.
Though the concept is intriguing, it’s not working smoothly for Pixel 6 users. At least one person experienced their phone becoming unresponsive after accessing this hidden environment. If you’re considering using Private Space, it might be best to wait for further updates to avoid similar problems.
The problem with Pixel 6 and Private Space
The core issue arises when attempting to use apps within the Private Space on a Pixel 6. After setting up this hidden environment, the affected user reported that their phone became completely unresponsive when opening an app. The usual reboot methods didn’t work, and the phone was bricked.
This experience highlights potential risks with this Android 15 feature, particularly on Pixel 6 devices. If you’ve already activated Private Space, turning it off is prudent until Google provides more information or a patch.
Why you should avoid activating Private Space for now
The potential to brick your phone is a serious concern. Bricking means your phone becomes completely unusable, and you cannot restart or fix the issue alone. The only apparent option for the Pixel 6 user who experienced this problem is to replace the device.
For now, Pixel 6 users should avoid enabling the Private Space feature until Google investigates and confirms whether it can be used safely. Keep an eye on any official updates, and in the meantime, avoid making any unnecessary changes to your device’s security settings to stay safe. If your phone has encountered similar problems, the best action is to contact Google’s customer support team until more details emerge.
Image credits: Google