What you should know
- The latest July software update arrives on Pixel phones, mirroring the design cues from the new Pixel Watch releases.
- The replacement list includes devices from Pixel 5a (5G) to Pixel 8a, as well as the Pixel Fold and Pixel Pill models.
- Google has taken steps to address the ongoing issue with its manufacturing facility resets on the Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a devices.
Following the release of the Pixel Watch a short time ago, Google is now extending monthly software updates to Android 14-powered Pixel phones.
Starting with the Pixel 5a (5G), all recent Pixel devices – including those up to the latest models alongside the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet – will receive the latest security patch from Google, as noted in its release.
The July release features a collection of bug fixes and enhancements. According to the changelog, various upgrades aimed at enhancing the stability of digicams will be implemented on select devices, including the Pixel 5a (5G), Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet.
Similarly, both the flagship and fashion models boast shared improvements in system stability and efficiency under specific conditions. A software update to resolve the recurring issue with back gesture navigation on Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 8a is imminent, specifically designed to rectify the malfunction in certain scenarios where the feature was not functioning as intended.
The global rollout of the new system update is expected to begin with the Pixel 5a (5G) and Pixel Fold devices. The proprietary firmware, known as the Opposite firmware, is exclusive to Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 8a variants. The identical handsets on the Telus network will receive the firmware update.
Although the latest update addresses many issues, it still fails to resolve the problem of bricked devices, including the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a. Meanwhile, Google acknowledged the issue, stating that its workforce had identified the root cause of the problem and was actively working to develop a comprehensive solution.
Before proceeding, Google advises waiting at least 15 minutes following a system update before interacting with your device to avoid any potential issues. Customers can opt to reset their units at a manufacturing facility, or choose to do so before conducting the latest system update.
The Android 11 update rollout began on July 3 for eligible Pixel devices, with deployment expected to be completed over the coming weeks. The rollout will likely unfold in stages, contingent upon the service provider and device capabilities.
