Google Pixel's Bluetooth Diagnostics can help troubleshoot before factory reset

On a Pixel 8 Pro, Engadget found that the diagnostics offer separate tests for media audio and calls. In the media test, the phone plays a sound and asks the user whether it can be heard. The tool is designed for situations where Bluetooth fails in specific ways, such as earbuds showing as connected but not playing music, or a car playing audio but not accepting calls.

Vehicle connections can be especially confusing, because wireless Android Auto uses both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Bluetooth handles the initial connection and hands-free calls, while Wi-Fi carries most of the data. That means Bluetooth can work correctly while Android Auto still has problems. Bluetooth Diagnostics can clarify where the failure lies.

The process is short: open Settings, tap Connected devices, open Bluetooth diagnostics, choose the accessory and follow the on-screen tests. Engadget notes that Samsung's built-in support app, Samsung Members, already includes similar tests and a broader device-wide diagnostic sweep.

The tool cannot repair dead earbuds, fix faulty accessory firmware or make incompatible hardware work together. Google's official Bluetooth guidance still recommends basic steps such as toggling Bluetooth, restarting devices, checking pairing and forgetting an accessory before pairing again.

Users who share device and Bluetooth diagnostics with Google consent to transmitting accessory details, connection-test results and hardware status. An optional bug report may include a Bluetooth HCI snoop log containing device names, MAC addresses and LE Audio reports.