Pixel devices to get ready to receive Google’s latest Android security update that is rolled in May; There are several benefits of owning a Pixel device. They include a fantastic camera that works well in low light conditions with no shutter lag. It provides unlimited cloud storage for video and photos. The fast charging of Pixel devices is the stuff of dreams, from 0-25% in fewer than 15 minutes.
“Google pushes the May 2021 security update to Pixel phones. Google has published the May 2021 Security Update Bulletin and has also started rolling out new updates to supported Pixel devices.”[1]
OS Updates Rolls To Pixel Devices First
Google designs and manufactures Pixel devices. It is also the creator of the Android mobile operating system. The biggest advantage of owning a Pixel device is the timely security updates. Pixel Phones And Android Work Together Beautifully. When the Android OS is updated, it is always rolled out to Pixel devices first.
“Pixel phones get the latest version of Android directly from Google. If you bought your device from the Google Store, updates would typically reach your device within 2 weeks. If you bought your device elsewhere, updates can take longer.”[2]
Google Started the Process of Updating
Google has made public its latest Security Update Bulletin. The information was published in May 2021, and we are bringing you the highlights in this article. The company has also started the process of updating all the other supported Pixel devices.
Google Identified Issues and Fixing them
According to the May 2021 Security Update Bulletin, Google has identified and created security updates for several issues that have been termed moderate to critical in severity. One of the most serious problems in the Android OS is that it could allow a local malicious application to go past user interaction requirements and directly gain access to additional permissions.
Google has also identified some issues with the Android Media Framework, Android System, and some exclusive closed-source software from its partner companies Qualcomm and MediaTek.
No Details on Security Patch
Google, as in the past, has not given more details about the vulnerabilities. There is no further information or additional documentation about the impact of these issues and how the security patches are taking care of them.
The Pixel functional update bulletin mentioned security threats classified as moderate issues and that they have Android Kernel components and a Qualcomm component related to the camera.
Are They Moderate Issues?
It was heartening to note that the list in May is quite small. All the issues are marked as moderate. Last month, Google mentioned issues relating to camera quality when used with some third-party apps. It also provided performance optimizations for apps and games that are graphics-intensive.
The May 2021 security update is being rolled out in phases, according to Google. When they are available for you will depend on your mobile service provider and your device. They may not be available right away, but you will receive a notification once it is made available.
- Global:
- Pixel 3 (XL): RQ2A.210505.002
- Pixel 3a (XL): RQ2A.210505.002
- Pixel 4 (XL): RQ2A.210505.002
- Pixel 4a: RQ2A.210505.002
- Pixel 4a (5G): RQ2A.210505.003
- Pixel 5: RQ2A.210505.003
RESOURCES
[1] https://www.xda-developers.com/google-may-2021-security-update-pixel-phones/
[2] https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/4457705?hl=en#zippy=%2Cpixel-phones
Published by: Book Club
Source: NewsService
Release ID: 18076