Key Points:
- Pixel 6 factory reset bricking phones for some users.
- Google investigating, but some users blame software and face potential repair costs.
- Hold off on factory resetting your Pixel 6 until the issue is resolved.
For many Pixel 6 owners, a routine factory reset has turned into a nightmare. Reports on Reddit and Google forums detail a worrying trend: Pixel 6 devices bricking, or becoming unusable, after a factory reset attempt.
The issue appears to affect all models in the Pixel 6 series – the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a. Users describe encountering a black screen after initiating the reset, followed by an error mentioning a missing “tune2fs” command. This advanced function is crucial for modifying system settings, and its absence suggests a deeper software problem.
Further attempts to revive the phone lead to a loop, displaying an error message about “unable to enable ext4 verify.” Additionally, even advanced tools like Android Flash Tool, used for software updates, fail to recognize the bricked devices.
The cause remains unclear. While recent software updates are suspected, affected phones run on different operating system versions. This inconsistency weakens the case for a specific update being the culprit.
Making matters worse, some users reporting the issue to Google were told the problem lies with the motherboard, potentially incurring repair costs even if their phone is out of warranty. This explanation sits poorly with users who believe the issue is purely software-based and should be addressed by Google at no charge.
Fortunately, there’s a glimmer of hope. Google has acknowledged the issue as “known,” implying a significant number of devices are affected. This recognition paves the way for an official investigation by Google.
However, an investigation doesn’t guarantee a user-friendly solution. Until a fix arrives, Pixel 6 owners are strongly advised to postpone any factory reset attempts.
