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Nexus Android 6.0.1 Problems: 5 Things You Need to Know

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Google’s Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow update brings new features, enhancements and bug fixes. It also brings problems. This roundup takes a look at those Android 6.0.1 problems, offers solutions and shows you where to find feedback in the weeks ahead.

Last year, Google confirmed an Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow update for Nexus devices. The update serves as the first major update to the Marshmallow operating system and it brings the company’s December security update along with it.

Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow is a substantial update for the Nexus 5X, 6P, 5, 6, 9, Nexus Player, and Nexus 7 (2013). It brings fixes for lingering Marshmallow problems and it also brings 200 new emojis and camera improvements to the Nexus 6 and Nexus 5. It’s not perfect though.

Nexus 6P-case-port

As we push away from the start of the Android 6.0.1 roll out, we’re starting to learn more about the Android 6.0.1 problems plaguing some Nexus smartphone and tablet users.

We want to make sure that you’re aware of these problems and we want to help you fix them. That’s why we’ve put together this roundup that covers Android 6.0.1 problems, fixes for the most common issues, and some places to go if you need to find feedback about Android 6.0.1’s performance on your device.

Keep all of this in mind as the January Android 6.0.1 OTAs continue. If you haven’t seen the January Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow update yet, you probably will soon.

Android 6.0.1 Problems Plaguing Users

The first thing you need to know about Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow problems is that they exist. We’re now weeks into the release and we continue to see Nexus smartphone and tablet users complain about bugs and issues with the new software.

Many of these complaints can be found on Google’s own Nexus Help Forum. This week we’ve seen Nexus 5, Nexus 9, Nexus 7, and Nexus 6 users complain about a myriad of Android 6.0.1 issues, some bigger than others.

Nexus 7 users are running into various installation errors and at least one user claims that the Android 6.0.1 update bricked his tablet.

Nexus 5 users are complaining about broken voice calling, issues with the proximity sensor, problems with the Play Store, problems receiving and sending MMS messages (the update was supposed to fix these problems), and problems with sound.

Nexus 9 users are reporting problems with the update and one user claims that the update “broke” his tablet. Others are saying similar things about the update. Nexus 6 users are seeing Bluetooth problems and it also breaks volume controls on headsets.

We point these out so that you’re aware of the potential dangers. Android 6.0.1 brings fixes and security patches but there’s a chance it could hurt your device’s performance. So, you’ll want to prepare and be careful.

Google doesn’t force you to install its updates so if you’re having a great performance on Android 6.0 or below, you’ll want to take your time with Android 6.0.1, especially if you own an older device like the Nexus 7 2013.

Where to Find Feedback & How to Prepare

It’s difficult to predict what you might run into after you install the Android 6.0.1 update (or the new January build) and that’s why we recommend doing some prep work before you make your move.

We’ve put together a guide that will take you step-by-step through the process that we use before we install an Android update. Android 6.0.1 is small but it could have a big impact on your device and you’ll want to be very careful with it. A little prep work could go a long way towards preventing problems and headaches.

And as we move away from the Android 6.0.1 release date, you’re going to want to keep tabs on performance.

Keeping a close eye on performance will alert you to potential Android 6.0.1 problems. It will also help you make a decision about whether or not you want to go through with the Android 6.0.1 update for your device. Most of you probably will but it’s important to dig in and get a second or third opinion before you decide.

We recently took a look at the Nexus 5 Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow update and that feedback will help get you started. There are a number of other resources out there too.

We’re starting to see feedback go up on social media sites like Twitter, Google’s Nexus Help forums, XDA-Developers, and Android-centric forums like Android Central forums.

If you’re feeling leery about Android 6.0.1, you’ll want to monitor all of those for additional feedback about performance and problems.

How to Fix Android 6.0.1 Problems

If you’re already running into Android 6.0.1 problems or if you just want to get a head start before you download the software on your phone or tablet, you’ll want to take a look at our updated list of fixes for common Android Marshmallow issues.

The list covers everything from battery problems to Wi-Fi issues to problems with performance post-Marshmallow. All of these fixes have been proven to work but in case they don’t, you’ll want to dig into some other sites.

Nexus 5X-1

Take a look at Google’s Nexus Help Forums, XDA-Developers, or your favorite Android-centric forum. If you’re a power user, XDA is a great place to go. If you’re a casual Android user, you’ll be better off with the Nexus Help Forum.

You Can Downgrade

If you decide that you don’t like Android 6.0.1 and its performance, and you can’t find a manual fix for your issue, you can also install a different update or a custom ROM to see if that helps.

If you’re not familiar with the flashing process, check out our guide on how to downgrade from one version of Android to another. It’s a great starting point for beginners and it will answer a lot of the questions you might have about the downgrade process.

Just please make sure that you’re careful. Flashing software can be a little tricky. But if done right, you could emerge with a more stable piece of software.

What’s Next

Google hasn’t announced an Android 6.0.2 or an Android 6.1 update. And with the January Android 6.0.1 security roll out underway, we’d be surprised if we saw another Marshmallow update roll out in the near future.

The next confirmed update for Nexus devices is the February security patch from Google. And there’s no guarantee it will have bug fixes on board.

There’s also a chance that it could also bring some new problems to the table. Point is, you can’t rely on Google if you’re dealing with problems right now.

Android 6.1 is reportedly in development but rumors point to a release in June.

Nexus 5 Android 6.0.1 Update: 5 Things to Know in April

April Nexus 5 Android 6.0.1Review

April Nexus 5 Android 6.0.1Review

I've been using the Nexus 5 since the day it arrived in 2013 and the Nexus 5 Android 6.0.1 update since the day it arrived for my device in December. I've been digging into its performance for more than four months now and here's what I've found. 

Google's current version of Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow (April security update) continues to deliver outstanding performance in key areas like battery life, UI speed, connectivity, and app performance. 

I've seen some complaints about Doze and battery life but I haven't see anything out of the ordinary during my time with stock Android 6.0.1. The Nexus 5's battery continues to hold a solid charge and that's big for a device that's going to turn three years old later this year. 

I've tested the device and its updates with three different routers and various Wi-Fi connections. I still haven't experienced any issues with range or speed. Bluetooth continues to excel and I've been able to pair it nicely with Bluetooth headsets and speakers. 

The Nexus 5 is still fast at the four month mark. I haven't seen any odd lag or random stuttering during my time with its new April security update. Animations and transitions are all fast and fluid and opening apps is quick and painless. 

Maybe the most important detail I can share is that I have yet to run into any experience-breaking problems with the April security update. Even the applications I use the most (Chrome, YouTube, Gmail) are performing at a high level.

It doesn't feel much different than the last security update which is to say that I'm still very satisfied with the device's performance. 

31 Comments

31 Comments

  1. diggie32

    12/11/2015 at 8:14 pm

    Seemed not to long ago, that Lollipop was getting pretty stable and complete. Then in the blink of an eye start on Marshmallow and it’s problems. Is that how android works? Release new software versions and treat everyone as beta testers? Then once it gets stable, start on another pile of mess? I’m an android user, and this is pretty ridiculous.

    • Noah Williams

      12/12/2015 at 10:19 am

      I have a Nexus 6P and it just randomly stopped letting me make voice calls, without an update or anything. It hasn’t gotten the 6.0.1 update yet, so…

    • Greg Cook

      01/01/2016 at 9:20 pm

      Honestly, it does seem like that. I’ll stick with 5.1.1 until they get this figured out.

  2. BrinkT

    12/12/2015 at 2:24 pm

    Learn how to write a tech article. it took you 8 paragraphs to get to the point!

  3. Jason Parr

    12/12/2015 at 3:57 pm

    Wow. A bit of a hate article there. All software updates can and usually do present issues for many users (including iphone) Android does not have any more or less bugs than any other OS and frankly are pretty quick to clean them up when they happen. If you have a nexus you also get monthly software updates for bug fixes and security updates. Are a handful of users experiencing issues, yes. If one person complains it does not reflect an issue of a bug either. Calm down.

  4. Dimi

    12/13/2015 at 1:20 am

    What a poorly written article. Seems like nothing but filler.. You lost a loyal fan gotta be mobile

  5. Robertrsilvia

    12/13/2015 at 5:18 am

    0=08 my neighbor’s ex-wife makes $68 /hr on the laptop . She has been fired for 6 months but last month her pay was $18404 just working on the laptop for a few hours.
    navigate to this site… See More

  6. Amjad

    12/15/2015 at 2:17 am

    I have Nexus 6P, i feel voice breaks out from speaker when i make a call.
    Any of the guys getting the same problem?
    I dnt understand what google is trying to fix instead of add shits like emojis. try fixing problems rather adding new things which is not so important

  7. Rich

    12/15/2015 at 9:42 pm

    after the upgrade, the system is dead. ..please help me my nexus 7 version 2013 is suitable for trash

  8. Scorpion

    12/16/2015 at 3:13 am

    On Nexus 6 i have the battery drain and calls problems…

  9. Padraic

    12/16/2015 at 5:27 am

    After my nexus 7 (2013 version) updated to 6.01 – my nexus will not start. It is on a continences cycle of trying to update apps and it keeps restarting. After over 6 years of Android, I am going to bite the bullet and change to Apple. I am tired of buggy updates from Android. I waited for 8 months for them to update to be able to use BBC iPlayer – after another rubbish buggy update that would not let it work last year.

  10. JTSR ?

    12/16/2015 at 9:22 am

    Nexus 7 2013 with 6.0.1 is flawless, Nexus 9 is buggy WiFi off and on, Chrome browser jerky, Play newsstand jerky and WiFi off and on. I purchased Nexus 9 to replace the 7 but now I’m ready to sell the 9… and wait for updated tablet with more ram!

  11. Jason Edgar

    12/18/2015 at 8:21 am

    another Nexus 7 2013 user here with a dead device after the OTA 6.0.1 update :( Google don’t want to know me and palm me off to my manufacturer, who tells me I’m outside warranty. Now I see the benefit of Apple keeping their hardware to themselves.

    • Jordan G

      12/20/2015 at 7:49 pm

      Just use the WugFresh Nexus Root Toolkit…it is easy and will help you restore your tablet.

  12. Avner

    12/25/2015 at 10:14 am

    Nexus 5x non email reception neither gmail or from exchange

  13. Roy baines

    12/25/2015 at 12:08 pm

    Bootloader after 6.0.1 update on nexus 7 2013 and reportedly other nexus devices, the culprit seems to be the Google app, ie if you disable it then restart your nexus you end up looking at a pretty but useless animation forever. Only solution is to break out into recovery and do a factory reset. We shouldn’t be faced with having a virtually bricked device just because we disable the browser (l use lightening). The nexus forums are alive with this issue and was grateful to find a way out via the power/vol buttons. Hope Google fix this soon

  14. Nitish Arora

    12/29/2015 at 9:17 am

    Mine is Nexus 5 and after the marshmallow update battery is draining like shit and even when i m using the phone while plugged in the battery still drains. It also charges slowly which is a pain in the ass.

  15. Ian Birthwright

    01/13/2016 at 12:16 pm

    6.0.1 update fine then January security update yesterday and the phone begins to heat up. Battery life goes down the pan too. Had no warming problems and was getting anything from 5hrs 30mins to 7hrs SOT now I’m struggling to get 4. WTF! How can I roll back on my 6P?

  16. John Steiner

    02/02/2016 at 1:31 pm

    I just today got 6.0.1 on my Nexus 6. I love the power button invoking the camera. But It both makes a sound and vibrates. Does anyone know how to turn off both?

  17. Sam Sopiee

    02/07/2016 at 10:02 am

    1) Nexus 7 (2013) 4G or LTE or Mobile, Android 4.4.4 (KTU84P), could not use Nexus Root Toolkit (NRT 2.1.4) or TWRP to flash latest image(s) MMB29Q or MMB29O from https://developers.google.com/android/nexus/drivers. 2) Used 7Zip to unzip tgz –> tar –> files for manual push, and still no good. 3) Agreed to OTA / Download button on Nexus for “update” 5.0 but Settings .. About .. still shows 4.4.4 after update. 4) Finally, this worked: used NRT … Flash Stock + Unroot, and targeted my previously downloaded Android 6.0.1 MMB29Q tgz file in new (clean) folder, and it extracted the proper zip file, and it seems to work fine.

  18. Sam Sopiee

    02/07/2016 at 10:09 am

    by the way, I was ready for a full wipe, I used Win Explorer and manually copied all my files, I still haven’t figured out the NRT function yet; tried it earlier before Unlocking and it backed up a full ZERO files. :)

  19. Tomas Cross

    02/21/2016 at 8:02 pm

    Temporarily fix for 6.0.1 Nexus 6P users with text/call/LTE data issues that I read elsewhere, try to first reboot, then once the phone is on, go to Settings > More > Cellular Networks and turn off Enhanced 4G LTE mode, then turn it back on. Then click on Network operators and after it searches for networks (recommend to do this outdoors away from radio interference) hit the “automatic” option. Then reboot. It fixed my data issues where pages would decide not to load, texts would fail to send with an “error -1″, and at times calls would not call with VoLTE (” Enhanced 4G LTE Mode”) and use 3G instead. Also, my issues did not arise out of box, rather after the security patches, which I believe are the culprit since my Nexus 6 (yes I have both a 6P and a 6, not a typo) began experiencing similar issues after the last few Lollipop security updates. No plans of updating to 6.0.1 YET. Please reply and let us all know if it worked for you.

  20. LIvia

    03/07/2016 at 12:28 pm

    i have upgraded my Moto G 2 generation and the audio does not work for incoming and outgoing calls

  21. Spokeno

    03/09/2016 at 1:26 am

    I’m sorry to burst your bubble, but Google promised in October, before the release of the Turbo 2 and Maxx 2, that Monthly scuriety patches would be pushed to all Google Experience phones, Nexus, anything getting Anroid 6.0 – that is fact.

  22. Portugal2100

    03/09/2016 at 3:13 am

    Well, I have a nexus 7 (2013 version) and it seems working pretty well.
    I never rooted my device, so I suggest maybe some problems may come from there, keep it rooted free.

  23. Nii rozay

    03/23/2016 at 11:21 pm

    Front camera isn’t working, voice call breaking with 6.0.1, network issues on nexus 5…

  24. Aldyn

    03/29/2016 at 1:13 am

    Samsung S5 LTE A cant detect LTE signal aftet upgrading to Marshmallow

  25. Sarah Gardner

    04/15/2016 at 8:35 am

    Problem with my Nexus 7 after downloading the 6.01 upgrade. My WiFi has been screwed up! Also speed is a big issue. Does anyone have any ideas? It’s driving me nuts.

  26. Anon.

    05/23/2016 at 4:44 am

    couldn’t agree more. All I wanted was a quick and concise list.

  27. Paul Campbell

    06/05/2016 at 6:10 pm

    This likely wont fix other people’s problems, but I had missing speaker sound on my Nexus 5 after what I thought was the latest 6.0.1 upgrade. Normal phone audio worked as did plugin headphones.

    In particular (a bunch of other people have reported this same symptom) when I pressed on the back of the case just below the camera sound came back.

    I removed the back and discovered that the speaker (a round silver disk) is attached to the back cover. It has two tiny springs that make contact on the circuit board below – I stretched these springs a little with a pair of needle nosed tweezers (be very gentle, pull them up by about 1/3 of their height) and put the back back on my phone – problem fixed. No software changes.

    My guess is that over time these springs compress slightly until they no longer make contact, slowly over time this is happening to all our (Nexus 5) phones, they’re all failing at about the same time, just like we all get software upgrades at the same time

  28. Oz

    07/24/2016 at 10:54 am

    Nexus 9, complete camera failure after 6.0.1. Camera apps, snapchat, etc., all instant crash when accessing camera.

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