Google Rolls Out First Android Update of 2024 for Pixel Phones
January 06, 2024 By Raulf Hernes
(Image Credit Google)
As the new year takes place, tech enthusiasts and Pixel users have something to celebrate. Google has welcomed 2024 with its first Android update, bringing not only security improvements but also a degree of fixes and advancements. The January security update follows closely on the heels of the December Feature Drop for Pixel phones, highlighting Google's adherence to providing a perfect and safe experience for its users.
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Let's dive into the details of this latest update and what Pixel users can expect.
Pixel Devices in the Spotlight: Pixel users, from the Pixel 5a (5G) to the Pixel 8 Pro, are in for a delight as Google has started the rollout of the January 2024 security update. This includes popular devices like the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, containing a wide range of Pixel users. Alongside the routine security patches, Google has managed typical issues, with one standout fix settling a constant problem related to the Camera app crashing.
Security Bulletin Breakdown: The January security bulletin from Google is arranged into two levels, each handling different parts of security. The first, dated January 1, manages vulnerabilities in Android entirely, tracing ten high-severity Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) and handling an issue with media codecs through Google Play system updates. Especially, this set does not have any critical-severity CVEs. The second, dated January 5, concentrates on vendor-specific flaws, closing 49 CVEs. Among these are three critical severity exposures in Qualcomm's closed-source parts, highlighting the particular direction taken to patch possible security risks.
Pixel Update Strategy Shift: Commonly, Pixel phones, along with Samsung devices, were among the first to get Android updates. However, Google has changed its procedure with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, scrapping the fixed first-Monday-of-the-month schedule. Rather, Google now posts updates as soon as they are ready, whether monthly or quarterly. This change underlines the company's commitment to providing timely and efficient updates, guaranteeing the security and stability of its devices.
Update Timeline and Impact on Other Manufacturers: While Google's Pixel phones are predicted to obtain the update on time, other manufacturers follow their update schedules. The occurrence of updates depends, with some companies choosing bi-monthly or even slower rhythms. Samsung, for example, chooses a diverse update strategy, delivering more regular updates for newer devices compared to their older equivalents. As a result, users across other Android devices can expect the appearance of the January update based on their respective manufacturers' timelines.
Google's issue of the first Android update for Pixel phones in 2024 highlights its ongoing dedication to user security and experience. The mixture of security patches, bug fixes, and the answers to specific problems features Google's commitment to keeping its devices at the top of trustworthiness. As Pixel users are eagerly waiting for the update, the wider Android community can expect similar improvements based on individual manufacturers' update strategies. The dynamic landscape of Android updates continues to grow, with Google directing the charge in setting new benchmarks for security and user satisfaction.
