Google has started the process of rolling out its critical April 2024 security updates for Pixel phones. Announced in a Pixel Community message, this update addresses a number of vulnerabilities and potential exploits, marking an important step in Google's efforts to keep Android users safe.
If you're the owner of a compatible Google Pixel device, you might be looking forward to this update, though it could take a few weeks for widespread deployment. Focused on the Pixel 5a 5G and all subsequent Pixel models, the April 2024 update seeks to strengthen Android system security.
Android users are encouraged to check for build number AP1A.240405.002 (or the .A1 variant for the Pixel Fold), noting that regional and shipping factors may affect when this update is available on their devices.
Google Launches an IMPORTANT Update for Android, what changes it brings
Google highlighted an impressive list of fixes in its release notes. The update includes fixes for eight general Android 14 vulnerabilities identified on April 1 and another 20 vulnerabilities discovered on April 5 with severity levels ranging from high to critical. Among the most notable fixes are:
- biometrics: Fixed an issue that caused a black screen to appear when unlocking the screen under certain conditions on the Pixel 5a 5G.
- Camera: Improved camera stability under certain conditions when switching between different zooms for Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel Fold. Also addressed issues with black halo artifacts and image reexposure under certain conditions on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
In addition to these fixes, Google has warned of two flaws specific to Pixel devices (CVE-2024-29745 and CVE-2024-29748) affecting the bootloader and firmware, noting that they "may be under limited, targeted exploitation." This warning emphasizes the urgency of updating your device to avoid potential security risks.
To manually check for the availability of the April 2024 Update for your Pixel device, navigate to Settings > System > Software Update. This round of updates for Pixel devices follows the April security update for the Google Pixel Watch and introduces the "Circle to Search" feature on the Pixel Fold, demonstrating Google's continued commitment to innovation and security in the Android ecosystem.
