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9 Common Nexus Android 5.1.1 Problems & How to Fix Them

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Google’s new Android 5.1.1 Lollipop update brings tons of enhancements and fixes to owners of the Nexus 7 2012, Nexus 7 2013, Nexus 9, and more. It also, according to Nexus users, brings some problems of its own. With that in mind, we take a look at how to solve some of the common Nexus Android 5.1.1 Lollipop problems we’ve seen in the days after its initial release.

Android 5.0 Lollipop problems have been a problem for many Nexus users since the software’s arrival back in November. At the time, owners of the Nexus 7, Nexus 5, Nexus 6, Nexus 10, Nexus 9. and Nexus 4 complained about a number of issues affecting their firmware and Google moved quickly to alleviate some of the more pressing issues.

Shortly after the update’s arrival, Google rolled out Android 5.0.1 and Android 5.0.2 Lollipop, two bug fixers aimed at squashing some of the initial Nexus Lollipop problems. While the two updates did address some of the problems, they failed to fix everything and Google was forced to roll out an Android 5.1 Lollipop update.

Android 5.1 was, and is, substantially larger than Google’s first two attempts. It brought tons of fixes and it also brought new features. And like Android 5.0.2 and Android 5.0.1, Android 5.1 also brought some problems of its own including a nasty memory leak issue.

Nexus6-2

Last month, Google started pushing out an Android 5.1.1 update for Nexus devices. Android 5.1.1 is a small bug fixer aimed at squashing Android 5.1 problems and lingering Lollipop issues. It has landed for the Nexus 7, Nexus 10 and Nexus 9 and it’s expected to hit more devices before everything is said and done.

Android 5.1.1 Lollipop is working fine on some devices but as we’ve pointed out, we’ve started to hear about Android 5.1.1 Lollipop problems. The emergence of Android 5.1.1 problems doesn’t come as much of a surprise given that we hear about issues after every single Android update.

With that in mind, we want to take a look at some of the Android 5.1.1 problems that have popped up and some of the problems that have the potential to pop up for Nexus users in the future. With no Android 5.1.2 or Android 5.2 release in sight, Nexus users will need to rely on third-party fixes for Android 5.1.1 problems.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 Installation Problems

As the Android 5.1.1 roll out starts to pick up steam (it just rolled out for the Nexus 9), we’re starting to see early complaints about Google’s new software. One of the problems that we’ve seen pop up several times in the days since the start of the roll out has to do with the Android 5.1.1 installation process.

Nexus users claim that the Android 5.1.1 installation process is getting stuck and won’t finish up. It’s a common Nexus problem and one that plagues stock users and those that were at some point using custom software.

Nexus-7-Lollipop

The first thing Nexus users will want to do is check in with the Android development community. In our experience, a smooth transition to stock allows for the installation process to proceed. It’s a tedious process but it might be the only way to get the OTA going. (Note: Those of you trying to sideload will need to be stock to use Google’s files.)

Nexus users that aren’t running custom software should take another route. If the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop installation process gets corrupted in any way, it would be smart to clear the device’s cache partition. To do this, Nexus users need to follow these basic steps that outline the process:

  • Press and hold Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously until you see something other than Google on the screen.
  • You should see a large arrow at the top of the screen.
  • Tap Volume Down repeatedly until you see Recovery in the arrow.  Then tap the Power button
  • You should see an android on his back, chest open with a red triangle and exclamation mark.
  • While holding Power button tap Volume Up once then release Power.
  • You should now see a list of items at top of screen.
  • Tap Volume Down until the item to erase or wipe the cache partition is highlighted.  Then tap Power button to initiate.
  • Status messages will appear at the bottom of the screen.  Be patient – it can take 10-15 minutes to complete.  When done restart the Nexus.

Nexus users report that these steps have worked to get the installation process unstuck and it’s something to try if the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop installation process stalls. If that doesn’t work, let the Nexus phone or tablet die, recharge to 100% and try installing again.

If none of those fixes work, head down to the bottom to learn about the factory reset option. Factory resets will often jumpstart the installation process though the process is extremely tedious.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 Battery Life Problems

Android 5.1.1 battery life problems are plaguing various Nexus users including owners of the Nexus 7. Battery life problems are common after a major Android release and they typically pick up as more users download the new software.

There are a few things to try if battery life goes south after the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop update and we’ve put together an extensive guide that will take you step-by-step through some popular fixes.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 Charging Problems

Charging problems have plagued Nexus devices for years and we’re already seeing a few complaints about slow charging and broken charging. If a Nexus device starts exhibiting charging problems after Android 5.1.1 Lollipop, there are a few steps to take in order to alleviate the problem.

One method that’s solved slow charging issues on our Nexus devices involves a few easy steps. First, charge the Nexus up to 100% charge. Once it’s there, let the charge start to fall. Before it gets down to 0%, right around the 5% mark, charge it up to 100% again. Repeat this three to four times and it could return to normal.

Nexus7-5-1

If that doesn’t work, there are a few more things to try. First, make sure that the Nexus is being charged with the cable that it came with. If it is, and it still doesn’t work, try using another charger with the same voltage rating as the stock charger.

If that still doesn’t work, try ditching the wall charger for a USB cable. Plug the Nexus smartphone or tablet into a computer and charge it that way to see if it helps. Charging from a wall is faster but charging through a CPU is efficient as well.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 Wi-Fi Problems

Wi-Fi problems are extremely common after Android updates and we’ve already heard a few complaints from owners of the Nexus 7.

The first step to take is to reboot the device that’s having trouble. Users will also want to try rebooting the router it’s connected to if that hasn’t been done in awhile. We recommend unplugging the router for a good 30 seconds and then plugging it back in. Nexus users can do the same for the modem as well.

If that doesn’t work, make sure that the router’s firmware is up to date. This process will vary based on make and model, Instructions likely came in the router’s box though they can also be found online.

Many users may want to wait before installing the Nexus 7 2013 Android 5.1.1.

Many users may want to wait before installing the Nexus 7 2013 Android 5.1.1.

If those simple fixes do not work, it’s time to head into the Nexus’ settings. Once there, force the device to forget the Wi-Fi network. Simply press down on the desired network and a white menu will pop up. At the top, there should be an option that says Forget network. Select that and then reenter the password to connect again.

If that doesn’t work, try changing the frequency. To do that, click the vertical dots in the top right corner to bring up the Advanced menu. Go to Wi-Fi frequency band and play around with the different settings. It should be set to Automatic by default.

If none of those fix the Android 5.1.1 Wi-Fi problems, we recommend updating applications or entering Safe Mode to try and single out problem apps. If that doesn’t work, it might be time to factory reset the device.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 Bluetooth Problems

Bluetooth problems are also extremely common and they’ve impacted Nexus users after every single Android update we can remember. (We can remember a lot of updates.)

Those dealing with Android 5.1.1 Bluetooth issues should try switching the feature off and on. This is a simple fix but it’s worked for some Nexus users in the past.

Nexus 7 2013 Android 5.1.1 Review Early - 2

After that, users will also want to try clearing the cache on Bluetooth Share. To do this, head into Settings -> Apps -> Scroll over to All -> Select Bluetooth Share -> Clear Cache. After doing this, power down the device and boot back up. Android 5.1.1 users can also try to Clear Data from the same screen. This is going to cause the Nexus to forget known Bluetooth devices.

If none of the aforementioned fixes work, Nexus users will want to try booting into Safe Mode. Again, to do this, follow Google’s instructions:

  1. Ensure your device’s screen is on, then press & hold the Power button.
  2. Touch & hold the Power off option in the dialog box.
  3. Touch OK in the following dialog to start safe mode.

Users trying to connect to Bluetooth in a car will need to consult the car’s manual to reset the car’s Bluetooth connection. The process is going to be different for each make and model, that’s why we recommend consulting the car’s manual. Once that connection has been reset and the connection’s been forgotten on the Nexus, try reconnecting to see if it works.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 Cellular Data Problem

Nexus users on Android 5.1 ran into a number of cellular data problems. Not surprising given that cellular data issues always pop up after Android updates. We haven’t seen any complaints regarding Android 5.1.1 but the software is still not available for devices like the Nexus 7 LTE, Nexus 9 LTE, Nexus 5, or Nexus 6. We want to nip these problems in the bud.

Those that run into cellular data problems with Android 5.1.1 will want to flip cellular data off. To do that go to Settings -> More -> Cellular networks. Turn it back on after 30 seconds or so and see if the connection is back. If it’s not, try rebooting the device. This has worked for us in the past when cellular data abruptly stops working.

We’ve also had success popping the phone or tablet into Airplane Mode. Switch on Airplane Mode and then switch it off. This has, in the past, restored cellular data on Nexus smartphones and tablets. If none of these work, it might be time to get in touch with the service provider, Google, or simply perform a factory reset to see if that works.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 Performance Problems

Android 5.1.1 is reportedly causing performance problems on the Nexus 7 2012. Performance issues often impact Nexus smartphones and tablets after major Android updates and older devices typically bear the brunt of the performance problems. Their hardware is old.

There is one fix in particular that we think could have an enormous impact on Android 5.1.1’s performance and that’s the fix we’ll outline here. This will clear the device’s cache partition. It’s a process that we already outlined above but as a reminder, here’s how to do it:

  • Press and hold Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously until you see something other than Google on the screen.
  • You should see a large arrow at the top of the screen.
  • Tap Volume Down repeatedly until you see Recovery in the arrow.  Then tap the Power button
  • You should see an android on his back, chest open with a red triangle and exclamation mark.
  • While holding Power button tap Volume Up once then release Power.
  • You should now see a list of items at top of screen.
  • Tap Volume Down until the item to erase or wipe the cache partition is highlighted.  Then tap Power button to initiate.
  • Status messages will appear at the bottom of the screen.  Be patient – it can take 10-15 minutes to complete.  When done restart the Nexus.

This fix should work across Nexus devices and it’s worth a try if a device is lagging after the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop update. If this fix doesn’t work, we suggest performing a factory reset, especially if the phone or tablet is extremely old. Factory resets are a pain but they often work wonders for older devices.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 App Problems

We’ve also begun to see Android 5.1.1 users complain about app problems. There are a few fixes to try if apps start acting up after the move up to Android 5.1.1.

First, users should try updating the app that’s causing problems. If it comes with support for Android 5.0 Lollipop or it was recently been updated with bug fixes and enhancements, there’s a good chance that the update will help to stabilize performance. Users can also try reinstalling the application. This might seem simple but its worked for us in the past.

App performance is good on the Nexus 7 after installing Android 5.1.1.

App performance is good on the Nexus 7 after installing Android 5.1.1.

Those that continue to run into issues with apps after installing Android 5.1.1 Lollipop should get in touch with the developer. Most Android developers encourage feedback. And while they may not engage users immediately, there’s a good chance that these bug reports will prompt a fix for the app somewhere down the road.

How to Fix Android 5.1.1 Problems If Nothing Else Works

If none of these potential fixes work, we suggest looking at a few different things.

First, we recommend heading to Google’s Nexus Help Forum. There are a ton of knowledgeable people on Google’s forums that will gladly help if a device runs into trouble. Sometimes, unorthodox fixes will work where common fixes fail. We also recommend taking a look at Android Central’s forums, one of our favorite Android-centric forums. Other sites might also have some fixes we don’t have listed here, so, dig around.

Those that are still unable to find a fix for Android 5.1.1 problems might want to get in touch with Google itself. Often times, the company will provide possible fixes when contacted directly. Depending on the severity of the problem, users might also be able to get the company to send out a refurbished device. Warranties and customer service agents are going to be tricky to navigate but it’s worth a shot.

If all else fails, we recommend performing a factory reset on the device to bring everything back to the way it was when the device was first bought.

26 Comments

26 Comments

  1. Mitzi the cat

    06/08/2015 at 6:00 am

    Heck, might as well stay with a release that works. Do these people ever bother to test anything????

  2. Jet Martin

    06/28/2015 at 11:46 pm

    Apparently google doesn’t test their releases very well…my phone is basically unusable with this latest release. Im thinking of switching to Apple…never thought I would say that but 5.1.1 has been SO BAD!!!

  3. Anna

    07/08/2015 at 8:00 am

    It seems that even with the FACTORY RESET it doesn’t truly take it to manufacturer reset. My tablet is still jacked up and I can’t use it for much of anything…..thanks alot on fixing what wasn’t broken.

  4. Tom

    07/10/2015 at 7:48 am

    5.1.1 bricked my first nexus 6, so I had to get it replaced. The one I have now is staying on 5.1.0, and no updates til the warranty is out. VERY BAD TESTING on Google’s part here…

  5. Larry

    07/10/2015 at 1:43 pm

    I have talked with both Google Tech support and ASUS Tech support (who hung up on me) and neither want to take responsibility for bricking my out of warranty Nexus 7 after installing 5.1.1. Its like pulling into a gas station with a perfectly running car. Filling it up, but instead of gas the service stations fills you up with water. Now the car’s engine won’t start or run. But the service station says its not their fault. I have a $200+ Nexus that won’t run because Google/ASUS filled it with their version of water. How can I recommend what was, I thought, the best tablet on the market when the company treats me like I don’t matter. Poor service, poor company, poor software, not how I would like to win customers or run a company. I’m surprised a Class Action Law Suit has not been started. This is happening to too many owners to allow this to continue. Google/ASUS take responsibility and get this fixed and support those that believed in you product !!

    • Charles Nemeth

      11/21/2015 at 4:27 pm

      Agreed 100%! Google should be forced to provide a simple way of returning the Nexus 7- 2012 devices to Android 4.4.2, which was running adequately. This tabled did everything I needed to do while traveling, and now I may be forced to buy a new tablet that I can’t afford.

  6. joe

    07/15/2015 at 7:39 pm

    i didnt even say yes to any OTA prompts. mine updated and rebooted itself to death while i was sleeping next to it, only to find it still hot and drained of life in the morning.

  7. Ron

    07/27/2015 at 6:29 am

    Will never ever buy a Google product. They ruined my 2012 Nexus.

  8. martin

    08/05/2015 at 10:20 am

    que mal q google lenze algo para q nos dejen unitiles los telefonos mi nexus 4 quedo inserbile una pena q al actualizarlo a 5.1.1 se apague solo y encima para prenderlo tenga q ponerlo a cargar

  9. Jen Pfaff

    08/06/2015 at 7:59 pm

    Recently I received a notice from Google saying I should update to 5.1.1 When I updated my tablet has not operated properly since. I’m hoping I can fix it with one of these suggestions or a new update. I’m very upset,

  10. Jacob

    08/13/2015 at 7:44 pm

    Updated to 5.1.1 now screen won’t rotate on my nexus 7. I’m tired of dealing with this nonsense. You’d think Google would be able to launch an update without screwing up basic functionality on THEIR OWN TABLET. Just going to invest in an iPad. Will be put more money but deal with less grief.

  11. Jorge

    08/22/2015 at 6:58 am

    Sigue presentando todo tipo de problemas de rendimiento, de batería es una vergüenza no compró otro productos de esta marca.

  12. Marcus

    08/29/2015 at 6:42 pm

    I noticed that the instructions for clearing the cache partition are wrong for Nexus 10- instead of holding power and volume down, you need to hold power, volume down AND volume up to get to the right menu.

  13. Mojo

    09/06/2015 at 7:20 am

    My Nexus 10 was great….until 5.0, then 5.1, and now 5.1.1 made it even worse. My apps run slow or dont load properly, my wifi connection is very dodgy, and image rendering is slow/none on web pages now. It was a great tablet until 5.0 happened…Im thinking I may have to join rest of family and get an Apple tablet, no problems ever.

  14. zzz

    09/10/2015 at 11:38 am

    OMG google this last update completly ruin my nexus 5. Come on dont you test anything?!?!!?

  15. seefairplayChris

    09/18/2015 at 6:50 pm

    last night I began the update on my Nexus 5 for 5.1. When I woke up it did the app initialization process and is stuck on the boot animation. After several hours of that I did a soft reset, cleared the patrician, and have tried a full factory reset. Still nothing pas the boot animation. Have they bricked my phone? I really don’t want to go through the rooting process to flash anything on it… anyone have any info?

  16. susie

    10/26/2015 at 3:48 pm

    My Nexus is also ruined. Have tried all even the factory reset but its just crap…fuming

  17. Charlene Pockette

    11/11/2015 at 1:34 pm

    Can’t get my original nexus 7 out of safe mode after upgrade :( tried every suggestion on internet I could find..

  18. Jon Crowley

    11/19/2015 at 4:01 am

    I agree with several of the respondents above. My Nexus 7’s going in the bin, and it’s iPads for me from now on. Why continue to struggle with an organisation you no longer trust?

  19. Maurice

    11/19/2015 at 11:43 am

    Had problem starting up NEXUS 7 5.1.1 after several hours being idle, screen remained black when plugging in the charger. Above instructions using ‘recovery mode’ for clearing the cache seem to work but need few more hours to confirm.

  20. sathish

    12/06/2015 at 7:37 am

    Android 5.1.1 installation process is getting stuck in my nexus 4. always getting black screen with screensaver. My phone gone … very bad situation … Pls share if you have get any update on how to fix this issue

  21. Winks

    01/16/2016 at 4:43 am

    I had the same problems found a program on the Internet (nexus root toolkit)) and put it back to kit kat 4.4.4 works fine again.

  22. Suman

    03/17/2016 at 10:15 pm

    Nexus 7 2012 was such a great tab till android 5.1.1 arrived and killed it. Don’t feel like using it anymore. Sad demise of a great product because of stupid and arrogant intervention by Google !

  23. EricP

    04/09/2016 at 1:11 am

    Nexus 7 – 2012 / Android 5.1.1…
    I can no more download and execute applications coming from other places than Play Store.
    Must I reinstall a 4 version?

  24. Jose

    04/21/2016 at 12:33 am

    What to do now. I came here looking for help because android 5.1.1 installation got stocked every time I try it, but after reading all these comments I think I just keep the 5.1 it is install now. please advise.

  25. Lizzie

    10/21/2016 at 9:03 am

    Followed the steps for lagging performance It seems to have worked after struggling forever with lagging and black screen issues!

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