Pixel Camera App Crashes on De-Googled Android Over Font Dependency

Pixel Camera App Crashes on De-Googled Android Over Font Dep - Pixel Camera App Fails on De-Googled Systems The Pixel Camer

Pixel Camera App Fails on De-Googled Systems

The Pixel Camera app’s latest update is causing crashes on de-Googled Android operating systems, such as GrapheneOS, according to reports. Sources indicate that version 10.x of the app now requires Google Play Services to function, a change that has left users without these services unable to use the camera. The report states that without Play Services, the app either crashes or fails to start entirely.

Root Cause: A Missing Font

Analysts suggest the problem originates from a newly introduced dependency on Google Sans Flex, a font exclusively provided through Google Play Services. Based on a crash log shared in the GrapheneOS Telegram group, Android Authority contributor Assemble Debug identified that the app now references this font with a new resource ID (0x7f090013). The previous version, 9.9, did not include this font reference and worked seamlessly on de-Googled builds.

Impact on Users and Workarounds

This change highlights Google’s increasing integration of its services into core apps, causing significant disruptions for users who prefer de-Googled environments. For those affected, the simplest solution is to revert to version 9.9.106.773153235.19 (Build ID 68469120) of the Pixel Camera app. Users must uninstall the current version and block updates to avoid recurrence. Additionally, reports note that individuals using sandboxed Play Services can continue to use the latest app version without issues.

Broader Implications

The reliance on Google Play Services for a minor element like a font underscores the growing dependency of Google’s apps on its ecosystem. Analysts suggest this trend may limit flexibility for users seeking alternatives to Google’s services, potentially affecting the adoption of privacy-focused operating systems. As this development shows, even small updates can have widespread consequences for user experience.

References

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