Google has confirmed a software bug that is preventing volume buttons from working correctly on Android devices with accessibility features enabled.
According to a support document published today, user reports indicate that volume keys malfunction when” Select to Speak” is activated on their Android devices.
Select to Speak is an Android accessibility service that reads text aloud and describes screen elements for people with reading difficulties or low vision. The feature also allows Android users to have their devices read text or describe pictures by pointing the camera at a document or an image.
This newly acknowledged issue causes volume buttons to adjust the device’s accessibility volume rather than the media volume when users expect to control music, video, or other audio playback.
Additionally, pressing volume keys while using the camera application will fail to capture photos, a popular shortcut many Android users rely on.
“We have received reports of volume keys not working as expected on Android devices that have Select to Speak, an accessibility service for users with low-vision or difficulty reading, enabled,” community manager Aadil Shaikh said.
“For example, pressing the volume keys adjusts the phone’s Accessibility volume instead of the Media volume; and pressing a volume key while using the Camera does not snap a photo.”
While Shaikh didn’t specify how many users are affected, which Android versions are affected, or share an estimated timeline for when the issue will be resolved, Google typically pushes bug fixes through regular system updates that roll out over time.
Until a permanent fix is available, Google provides a temporary workaround that requires affected users to disable the Select to Speak service by going into their device’s settings, tapping Accessibility, then “Select to Speak,” and then toggling the Select to Speak shortcut off.
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