Since the launch of Google's Pixel and Pixel XL phones, we have seen a number of issues popping up. One of the most reported problems has probably been the audio distortion issue at higher volumes. While there were several arguments whether this was a hardware issue, yesterday's Android 7.1.1 Nougat February security patch has apparently resolved the issue.
How to fix Pixel audio distortion issues
Google released the Android February security patch last night, fixing a number of security vulnerabilities ranging from moderate to critical. While it wasn't mentioned at the time, the Mountain View search giant has apparently fixed the annoying Google Pixel audio distortion problem. Several Pixel users have been reporting the problem for the last two months, confirming that playing audio at high volumes through speakers or even the headphones would distort the audio. While it appeared for a few users at some frequencies, others noticed the issue happening more often.
For those looking for a way to fix Pixel audio distortion issue, you can now relax and enjoy listening to your favorite music at high volume. Google and Verizon have started rolling out the update. Verizon noted that the update increases the "reliability of sending and receiving calls with the Honda Bluetooth Carkit". So, if you have been facing that problem too, the Android February security patch is your best friend.
It should be noted that the issue is still persistent on Android 7.1.2 Developer Preview that was released last week. Google is expected to send a patch to fix Pixel audio distortion issue on DP devices in the next preview release.
If you haven't yet received the OTA notification for the latest February security patch, here are the direct download links of OTA and factory images.
