Google Pixel owners have been noticing a strange change in their devices' notification and call vibrations following the March 2025 update. The issue, which has been reported by multiple users on the Google Pixel subreddit, is described as a "hollow feeling" vibration with "less thunk" compared to the pre-update experience.

This is not the first time Google has faced issues with haptics on its Pixel devices. In 2022, an update weakened notification vibrations on Pixel 6 phones, a problem that was eventually fixed about two months later. The current issue has been observed on Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 8 Pro devices, but not on the Pixel 9 series, according to reports from 9to5Google.

Verge staffers have also experienced the change on their Google Pixel 8 Pro devices, with one writer describing the vibration for a text message as more intense when the device is placed on a table. However, the same writer noted that the haptic feedback while typing feels weaker, similar to "flicking a rubber band."

The cause of the change is currently unknown, and it is unclear whether it was intentional or a bug. It is also unclear whether the change was part of the latest Android update or a Feature Drop. Google has been reached out to for comment, and this article will be updated when a response is received.

The issue has sparked speculation among users, with some wondering if the change is related to a hardware or software issue. Others have expressed frustration at the altered vibration, which they claim affects the overall user experience. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough testing and quality assurance in software updates, particularly when it comes to features that are deeply ingrained in users' daily interactions with their devices.

The development also raises questions about Google's approach to haptic feedback on its Pixel devices. While the company has made significant strides in other areas, such as camera performance and software updates, the recurring issues with vibrations suggest that there may be room for improvement in this particular aspect of the user experience.

As the tech industry continues to evolve, the importance of attention to detail and user-centric design cannot be overstated. The Google Pixel vibration issue serves as a timely reminder of the need for companies to prioritize these aspects in their product development and testing processes.