The haptic feedback feature on Google Pixel phones has long been praised for providing users with a satisfying tactile response. However, recent complaints following the March Pixel Feature Drop suggest that an update has adversely affected this once beloved characteristic. Users are now expressing their dissatisfaction on social media platforms, particularly Reddit, where many claim the new haptic feedback is subpar. A Reddit user, “toolateSnake,” lamented that what was once a highlight of his device has turned into a significant disappointment.
He noted that the haptics had been essential to his phone experience, and the latest update rendered them nearly unusable. Another user, “tylerdurden,” echoed these sentiments, reporting a loss of haptic feedback during NFC payments and expressing frustration over trying to locate any relevant settings to restore it. The response from the community has been largely supportive of these complaints. Another Redditor, “asteria99,” speculated that the changes were likely unintended bugs rather than deliberate updates, and many hope the next release will address these issues.
It appears that the Pixel 8 Pro is the most affected model, while other models like the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 8a reportedly remain untouched by this problem. Users have described the new haptic feedback as harsh and uncomfortable, with one user even likening it to the feeling of being struck with a hammer. This sharp contrast to the previous experience has left many Pixel owners frustrated. Several have already submitted their feedback to Google in hopes of a swift resolution to restore the quality of haptics they once enjoyed.
The hope is that a forthcoming update will bring back the satisfying tactile alerts that many have come to rely on.