Google Pixel Link Cannot Be Opened – How to Fix It

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If your Google Pixel is unable to open links, it could be due to browser issues, app restrictions, or incorrect settings. This guide provides step-by-step solutions to fix the problem and ensure links open properly.

Check Default Browser Settings

Set a Default Browser
  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to Apps > Default Apps
  3. Tap Browser app and select Chrome or your preferred browser

Try a Different Browser
  • Open the link in another browser like Firefox or Microsoft Edge
  • If the link opens in another browser, the issue may be with your default browser

Restart Your Pixel

Restarting your phone can resolve minor glitches:

  1. Press and hold the Power button
  2. Tap Restart

Clear Cache and Data for Browser

Clear Cache and Data for Chrome
  1. Open Settings > Apps > See all apps
  2. Select Chrome (or your default browser)
  3. Tap Storage & cache
  4. Select Clear cache, then tap Clear storage

Check Internet Connection

Ensure Your Device is Online
  • Open another website in your browser
  • Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data
  • Try enabling and disabling Airplane Mode

Disable Ad Blockers or Extensions

If you are using an ad blocker or browser extension, it may prevent links from opening.

  • Disable any ad blockers and try opening the link again

Check App Linking Settings

If links are not opening in apps, App Links may be misconfigured.

Enable Open Supported Links
  1. Open Settings > Apps > See all apps
  2. Select the app you are trying to open (e.g., YouTube, Twitter)
  3. Tap Open by default
  4. Enable Open supported links

Disable Instant Apps

If a link tries to open in Google Play Instant Apps, it may not load correctly.

Turn Off Instant Apps
  1. Open Settings > Google > Settings for Google apps
  2. Tap Google Play Instant
  3. Turn off Upgrade web links

Reset App Preferences

Resetting app preferences can fix misconfigured settings:

  1. Open Settings > Apps
  2. Tap the three-dot menu in the top right
  3. Select Reset app preferences

Try Opening the Link in Incognito Mode

If a link does not open normally, try it in Incognito Mode:

  1. Open Chrome
  2. Tap the three-dot menu > New Incognito Tab
  3. Paste the link and check if it opens

Check for System Updates

Outdated software can cause issues with link handling.

Update Your Pixel
  1. Open Settings > System > System update
  2. Tap Check for update
  3. Install any available updates

If links still do not open, consider resetting your Pixel to factory settings or contacting Google Support for further assistance.