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Users testing Android 16 Beta 4 are reporting an unexpected issue with the lock screen shortcuts, as the long-press feature for activation appears to have been removed on some devices.
First introduced with Android 14, the long-press method for shortcuts like the camera and flashlight was designed to prevent accidental activation. A single tap would trigger a small shake animation alongside the message “Touch & hold shortcut”, reminding users to press longer for activation. The aim of the mode was to prevent users from inadvertently activating their flash while the device was in their pouches, as both actions would result in battery depletion and overheating hazards.
Numerous users have reported that the new Android 16 Beta 4 update eliminates the necessity for a long press to access features. A recent update in Android 16 Beta 4 introduced a single-tap activation for shortcuts. However, this straightforward method introduces new potential for inadvertent shortcut launches.
This particular issue is present exclusively among a subset of users. The single-tap activation was observed in only two of the six devices that were evaluated, suggesting that this functionality is the result of software irregularities rather than product enhancements. The majority of devices function as intended, as users must execute a long-press action to activate their shortcuts.
Google is expected to address this issue in future updates before the official stable release of Android 16.
