Google has announced a significant extension to its Android OS update policy for the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Fold. These devices will now receive Android OS updates for five years, aligning them with Google’s commitment to long-term software support.

Extended Updates for Pixel 6, 7, and Fold

When Google introduced the Tensor chip in the Pixel 6 series, it expanded its software support to five years, including three years of OS updates and two additional years of security patches. However, the newer Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 series offer seven years of updates. This raised questions about whether the Pixel 6 and 7 generations would get extended support.

Google has now confirmed that these devices, including the Pixel Fold, will receive five full years of OS and security updates. This policy applies from the date the device first launched on the Google Store in the U.S.

Updated Support Policy Summary:

• 7 Years of Updates: Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and future models.
• 5 Years of Updates: Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel Fold.
• 3 Years of OS Updates, 5 Years of Security Updates: Pixel Tablet.

The change was hinted at earlier when Android 16 Developer Preview listed support for the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro.

Android 15 QPR1: New Fixes for Pixel Devices

Google has also started rolling out the first Quarterly Platform Release (QPR1) update for Android 15. This update brings fixes and improvements across various Pixel models. OTA and factory images are now available for supported devices, though on-device updates may take a bit longer to appear.

Fixes and Improvements

The Android 15 QPR1 update includes 16 fixes across multiple areas:

• Audio: Stability improvements and fixes for USB audio-related reboots.
• Bluetooth: Enhanced range for Pixel 9 devices.
• Camera: Stability improvements in certain scenarios.
• Display & Graphics: Fixes for green screen tint issues.
• System: General stability and performance improvements.
• Telephony: Improved network connection reliability.
• User Interface: Fixes for lockscreen wallpaper issues, dark mode stability, swipe actions, and notification background colors.
• Wi-Fi: Improved wireless performance and stability.

Device-Specific Builds

Global updates have been released for all supported Pixel devices, including localized builds for certain regions (e.g., Telstra in Australia and EMEA countries).

Final Thoughts

With extended update support and continuous fixes, Google is reinforcing its commitment to enhancing user experience across its Pixel lineup. These changes ensure that even older devices remain relevant and secure for longer periods, aligning with the company’s focus on sustainable and reliable technology.

Google has rolled out a new feature drop for Pixel devices, bringing several exciting updates to improve your user experience.

Pixel Screenshots: Smarter Than Ever

Pixel Screenshots is now more intelligent and helpful. It automatically categorizes screenshots into different groups like music, places, and products. You can easily search within these categories and take actions like adding events to your calendar or searching for products.

Gemini: A Versatile AI Assistant

Gemini is getting smarter with new features:

• Spotify Integration: You can now use voice commands to search and play music on Spotify.
• Chess Champ Gem: This new feature lets you play chess with Gemini, providing you with tips and strategies.

Google Contacts: A Fresh Look

The Google Contacts widget has a new design with circular avatars and more information displayed. It’s more visually appealing and easier to use.

These updates are designed to make your Pixel experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Google has released a new update for its Pixel phones and watches, bringing a bunch of cool new features. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s new:

For Pixel Phones:

• Improved Screenshots: You can now search, categorize, and edit your screenshots more easily.
• Clearer Voice Recordings: The Recorder app now has a feature to reduce background noise.
• Better Instagram Photos: The Instagram camera on Pixel 9 phones can now take even better HDR photos.
• Smarter Call Screening: Your phone can now suggest helpful replies to incoming calls, like “I’m in the lobby” or “Not outside.”
• Enhanced Foldable Features: Pixel Fold and Pixel Fold 2 users can now preview photos together with the person being photographed.
• Easier Tablet Use: Pixel Tablet users can now use widgets on the lock screen and access a VPN.
• Simplified View: A new feature that makes your phone’s screen easier to read and use.
• Live Call Transcripts: Your phone can now transcribe calls in real-time.
• Better Music Recognition: The Now Playing feature can now identify more songs and show album art.
• More Powerful AI: Gemini AI is getting better, with features like smarter chat, home control, and messaging.
• Improved Security: Your phone can now recognize if you’re in an unsafe location and ask for extra authentication.
• Expressive Captions: Video captions are now more descriptive, including emotions like “gasps” and “cheers.”
• Easier Sharing: You can now share files with others by scanning a QR code.

For Pixel Watches:

• Live Video Feed: You can now see live video from your Nest cameras on your watch.
• Detailed Health Tracking: Your watch can now track your heart rate and activity in more detail.
• Improved Safety Features: Your watch can now detect falls and heart-related emergencies in more countries.

Overall, this update brings a variety of improvements to Pixel devices, making them even more useful and enjoyable.