How to quickly check for software updates on your Google Pixel phone
Google recently introduced theGoogle Pixel 8alongside theGoogle Pixel Watch 2. The Pixel 7 series proved popular in 2022, and it seems that the Pixel 8 series won’t let us down either. The new Pixel phone features significant design changes, has a new processor, and runs Android 14 out of the box. The latest version of the Android operating system is also rolling out to the Pixel 4a 5G and its successors.
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How long will my Pixel get OS updates and Feature Drops
Google changed its Android update policy several times over the past few years. You can refer to our in-depth guide that covershow long your Pixel phone will receive updates.
The company’s latest flagships, the Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro, are slated to get device software updates for the next seven years. This is an improvement over the Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, which came with five years of OS and security updates.
Apart from yearly OS updates, Google rolls out security patches every month, along withPixel Feature Drops introducing new featuresevery three months. Pixel Drops are a great initiative by Google for adding new features to Pixel devices, as users don’t have to wait for a major Android release to take advantage of new features.
When will my Pixel smartphone get updates?
The benefit of owning a Pixel phone is that they are first in line to receive new Android updates. Google is the only Android manufacturer that offers the same-day Android updates that Apple iPhone owners have enjoyed for years.
Like iOS 17 was available to download on supported iPhones on the release date, the Android 14 stable build was released as an OTA update for all supported Pixel devices on day one. The Pixel phones that support the latest Android update include the Google Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 7a, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6, Pixel 6a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a 5G. So, if you own any of these Pixel phones, you can download and install the Android 14 update.
Updating your Google Pixel to the latest version of Android (currently Android 14)
Most companies, including Google, don’t roll out the latest update to all Android devices simultaneously. Instead, they release it in small batches to ensure everything works as expected in the real world. So, even if an update is released, it might be a few hours before you get it on your smartphone.
If you want to take matters into your own hands, sideload the OTA. The best part about flashing the OTA is that it doesn’t reset your phone, and your phone continues to work like before. However, the process requires technical knowledge and access to a computer. In this guide, we cover updating your Pixel phone via regular over-the-year updates.
Since the automatic update can take a little longer, we also mention the steps to check for updates manually on your phone.
How to install the Android 14 beta on your Pixel
If you are a part of theAndroid 14 beta program, you could install the QPR1 beta on your Pixel. Not all the features in the beta program will make their way to the final Android 14 QPR release.
TheQPR beta updateshould be stable for daily use compared to the initial Android 14 beta builds. But there’s always the possibility of facing bugs and issues when you try new features.
The Android 14 developer preview is for developers only, and Google doesn’t recommend installing it on your device. Installing the developer preview on your phone may result in loss of data, crashing, and outright bricking of your phone. If you want to go through the installation, do it on a secondary device. Running the developer preview on your primary phone may result in you being without a functioning phone in an emergency.
Keep your phone up-to-date and protected
You could encounter problems with your Google Pixel if you don’t get the latest updates for your phone. It’s best to ensure that your device’s operating system is up-to-date to prevent security issues. And if you plan to purchase the latest Google Pixel phone, buy one of thesecases to protect your Pixel 8.
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