If navigation gestures suddenly stop working after an Android update, you’re not alone. It usually happens right after a system upgrade when something in the interface doesn’t reload correctly. The good news is that this problem is almost always fixable without resetting your phone.
Quick fix first: restart the phone once, then switch navigation modes and switch back again. On many devices, that alone restores gesture control.
Why gestures stop working after an update
Android updates replace core system components, including the launcher and gesture service. Sometimes the update finishes, but background services don’t fully reconnect. In other cases, cached system settings conflict with the new version.
The result is simple: swipes register visually, but nothing happens — or gestures stop responding entirely.
Switch navigation mode temporarily
This forces Android to reload gesture controls.
- Open Settings.
- Go to System or Display (varies by brand).
- Select Navigation Mode or System Navigation.
- Change from Gesture Navigation to 3-button navigation.
- Wait about 10 seconds.
- Switch back to Gesture Navigation.
Test the back swipe and home gesture immediately. Many users find this resolves the issue because the system reloads the gesture handler.
Restart the system launcher
If gestures still don’t respond, the launcher may be stuck using old settings.
- Open Settings → Apps.
- Tap See all apps.
- Find your launcher (often called System Launcher, Pixel Launcher, or the device brand launcher).
- Select Force Stop.
- Return to the home screen.
The interface reloads, and gestures often begin working again immediately.
Clear system UI cache
Updates sometimes leave behind incompatible cached files.
- Go to Settings → Apps.
- Tap the menu and enable Show system apps.
- Find System UI.
- Open Storage & Cache.
- Tap Clear Cache only (do not clear storage).
Restart the phone afterward and test gestures again.
Check accessibility or overlay apps
Apps that draw over the screen can interfere with gesture detection after updates. Common examples include floating tools, screen filters, gaming boosters, or third-party gesture apps.
Temporarily disable:
- Accessibility services you don’t actively need
- Floating shortcut apps
- Screen dimmers or overlay utilities
After disabling them, try swiping from the screen edge again.
Install pending patches
Manufacturers often release small follow-up fixes shortly after major Android updates.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Security & Updates or Software Update.
- Check for updates and install anything available.
Even minor patches frequently correct gesture-related bugs.
One practical tip
If gestures fail only on the home screen but work inside apps, switching to the default system launcher temporarily can confirm the cause. Third-party launchers sometimes lag behind new Android gesture frameworks.
In most cases, one of the steps above restores navigation immediately. Once gestures respond normally again, no further action is needed.