Like clockwork, Google releases a new Android security patch at the start of every month. Typically, the update is released on the first Monday of the month. With the Easter holidays, though, the company slightly tweaked its roll-out plan, with the April 2024 security patch for Pixels dropping a day later. While theMarch 2024 updatewas big and packed several new features, the April patch is light on new features. Instead, it focuses on camera and biometric-related bug fixes, besides patching some security vulnerabilities.
Every new feature in Google’s March 2024 Pixel Feature Drop
An ongoing changelog of Google’s quarterly updates for its devices
Below is Google’s official release notes for the April 2024 update for compatible Pixel phones:
What’s included
The April 2024 update includes bug fixes and improvements for Pixel users – see below for details.
Biometrics
If you own thePixel 8or 8 Pro, you will be happy to learn that the latest update addresses the frustrating camera bug thatprevented automatic exposure adjustment after you tap on the viewfinder. There are no other notable bug fixes in the April 2024 build.
Google’sApril 2024 security bulletinis also live, highlighting the patched security vulnerabilities. ThePixel Update bulletindetails 25 patches for Pixel-specific vulnerabilities.
Factory images and OTA files up for download
The April security patch is rolling out for the Pixel 5a 5G and all newer models. While the March 2024 update rolled out a week later for Pixel phones in the US, that’s not the case this time around. Google says the OTA update should go live for all compatible Pixel phones worldwide over the coming days.
If the update is not showing up for download, you cangrab the factory image or OTAand sideload it manually on your phone. Since this is a minor update, the OTA size is relatively small, weighing around 30MB on the Pixel 8 and 7 series.
In addition to the Pixel phones, thePixel Watch’s April updateis also live. It packs enhanced haptic functionality and auto-brightness improvements.
