You should update your Google Pixel phone ASAP – here's why

Google is rolling out its Pixel Update for May 2025, and it includes a critical security patch. Here’s what you can expect from the company’s latest update. 

What’s in the May Pixel update?

The update bundles a fix for a bug that causes degraded microphone recording quality in certain apps, a fix for a problem that causes issues with Bluetooth pairing to certain smartwatches, and a fix for a glitch that causes quick settings menu items to appear in a secondary language. Then there are the security patches.

Nearly 30 security fixes are a part of this update, but the most important is one called CVE-2025-27363, which Google says “may be under limited, targeted exploitation.” In other words, it’s a vulnerability that’s being actively exploited by people with bad intentions. 

Also: 6 rumored Android 16 features that are making this loyal Pixel user ecstatic

Google didn’t offer any more details about what this exploit is or how it’s being taken advantage of, but the fact that Google named it specifically in the patch notes shows it’s critical. 

Google says this update also includes a bootloader update that prevents your device from being rolled back to a previous, vulnerable version of Android. Once you install this update, your phone won’t be able to go back to an earlier build.

What devices are getting the May Pixel update?

All supported Pixel phones and tablets (the 6a and beyond) running Android 15 will get this update, Google says. Rollout will start today and continue over the next week in phases, depending on your carrier and device. You’ll get a notification once the update is available.

You can always check your Android version manually, too. To see if an update is available, open Settings, scroll down, and tap on “Security and privacy.” Tap “Check for updates” under “System & updates” and follow the prompts.

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