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30 Facts About Pixel Update

Elicia Briones

Written by Elicia Briones

Published: 11 Jan 2025

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Source: Pcmag.com

The Google Pixel series has become a staple in the smartphone world, known for its stellar camera, timely updates, and seamless Google integration. Did you know the first Pixel launched in 2013? Since then, Pixel phones have evolved, offering longer support periods and innovative features. For instance, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro promise seven years of updates, ensuring your device stays current until 2030. With AI-driven features like the Magic Eraser and Audio Magic Eraser, Pixel phones continue to push the boundaries of what's possible. Curious about more Pixel facts? Let's dive into 30 key details about Pixel updates!

Key Takeaways:

  • The Pixel series offers long-term software support, with the latest models guaranteeing updates until 2031. This makes Pixel phones a sustainable choice for users who want to keep their devices for longer without needing frequent upgrades.
  • Google's commitment to innovation is evident in the Pixel series, with features like the Tensor chip, generative AI capabilities, and extended support periods. This ensures that Pixel devices continue to push the boundaries of smartphone technology.
Table of Contents
01The Beginning of the Pixel Series
02Commitment to Software Updates
03Innovations in Hardware and AI
04Feature Drops and Sustainability
05Historical Support Periods
06Mid-Range Variants
07Recent Pixel Models
08Historical Lifespan of Pixel Devices
09Pixel Updates: A Commitment to Excellence

The Beginning of the Pixel Series

The Google Pixel series has become synonymous with high-quality Android smartphones. Let's explore some key facts about its journey and updates.

  1. The first Google Pixel smartphone was released on February 21, 2013. This marked the start of a new era in Android smartphones, focusing on simplicity, ease of use, and exceptional camera performance.

Commitment to Software Updates

One of the standout features of the Pixel series is its commitment to timely software updates.

  1. Since the introduction of the Pixel 6 in 2021, all Pixel phones have guaranteed Android version updates for three years and security updates for five years.

  2. In December 2024, Google extended the support period for all Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 phones, as well as the Pixel Fold, to five years of both software and security updates.

  3. The latest Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro models, announced in October 2023, guarantee both Android version updates and security updates for seven years, offering full support until October 2030.

Innovations in Hardware and AI

Google has consistently pushed the envelope with hardware and AI features in its Pixel series.

  1. The Pixel 6 series was the first to include Google's first-generation Tensor chip, which powers AI-driven features like the Magic Eraser and improved camera performance.

  2. The new Pixel 8 series is built for the generative AI era, with features like the Google Assistant summarizing long articles and creating grocery lists using advanced machine learning models.

  3. The Pixel 8 Pro introduces the Audio Magic Eraser, which uses advanced machine learning models to sort sounds into distinct layers, allowing users to control their levels and improve audio quality.

  4. The December Feature Drop for the Pixel 8 Pro adds Video Boost, enhancing video visuals and making them more stable and clear.

Feature Drops and Sustainability

Google's Feature Drops and extended support periods make Pixel devices a sustainable choice.

  1. Google's Feature Drops are regular updates that bring new features and improvements to Pixel devices, designed to enhance the user experience and keep the devices up-to-date with the latest technology.

  2. The extended support period for Pixel devices makes them a sustainable smartphone choice. With seven years of security updates and OS upgrades, users can keep their devices for longer without needing to upgrade frequently.

Historical Support Periods

Let's take a look at the historical support periods for various Pixel models.

  1. Pixel / XL (2016): Supported for three years and one month.

  2. Pixel 2 / XL (2017): Supported for three years and one month.

  3. Pixel 3 / XL (2018): Supported for three years and seven months.

  4. Pixel 4 / XL (2019): Supported for three years and three months.

  5. Pixel 5 (2020): Supported for three years and three months.

Mid-Range Variants

The mid-range variants of Pixel phones, known as the ‘A-series,’ offer similar features at a lower price point.

  1. Pixel 4a: Announced on August 3, 2020, and supported for three years and two months.

  2. Pixel 4a (5G): Announced on November 5, 2020, and supported for three years and three months.

  3. Pixel 5: Announced on September 30, 2020, and supported for three years and three months.

  4. Pixel 5a: Announced on August 17, 2021, and supported for two years and eleven months.

Recent Pixel Models

The latest Pixel models continue to push the boundaries of smartphone technology.

  1. The Pixel 6 series, announced on October 19, 2021, is supported until at least October 2026 for OS updates and October 2028 for security updates.

  2. Announced on May 11, 2022, the Pixel 6a is supported until at least July 2027 for OS updates and July 2030 for security updates.

  3. The Pixel 7 series, announced on October 6, 2022, is supported until at least October 2027 for OS updates and October 2030 for security updates.

  4. Announced on May 10, 2023, the Pixel 7a is supported until at least May 2028 for OS updates and May 2031 for security updates.

  5. The Pixel Fold, announced on June 20, 2023, is supported until at least June 2028 for OS updates and June 2031 for security updates.

  6. The Pixel 8 series, announced on October 4, 2023, is supported until at least October 2030 for both OS updates and security updates.

  7. The Pixel 8a, announced on May 7, 2024, is supported until at least May 2031 for both OS updates and security updates.

  8. The Pixel 9 series, announced on August 13, 2024, is supported until at least September 2031 for both OS updates and security updates.

Historical Lifespan of Pixel Devices

Here’s a look at when support ended for older Pixel devices.

  1. Pixel / XL (2016): Ended support on December 2, 2019.

  2. Pixel 2 / XL (2017): Ended support on December 7, 2020.

  3. Pixel 3 / XL (2018): Ended support on June 6, 2022.

Pixel Updates: A Commitment to Excellence

Google Pixel phones have set a high bar in the smartphone world. With timely software updates, stellar camera performance, and innovative AI features, they stand out. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro promise seven years of updates, making them a solid choice for those who value longevity. The Tensor chip and AI-driven features like the Magic Eraser and Audio Magic Eraser show Google's dedication to cutting-edge tech. Regular Feature Drops keep the devices fresh and exciting. From the first Pixel in 2013 to the latest models, Google's commitment to software support and user experience remains strong. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just need a reliable phone, Pixel devices offer something for everyone. Their extended support periods also make them a sustainable choice, reducing the need for frequent upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a pixel update?
A pixel update refers to changes or improvements made to the software that controls pixels on screens, like those on smartphones, tablets, or computer monitors. These updates can enhance display quality, fix bugs, or add new features to how images and videos are shown.
How often do pixel updates happen?
Frequency varies by device and manufacturer. Some devices receive updates more regularly, especially if they're newer or have active support from developers. Typically, you might see updates several times a year.
Can anyone do a pixel update?
Yes and no. While anyone can initiate an update if it's available for their device, creating or modifying pixel updates requires technical knowledge and access to specific development tools.
Why are pixel updates important?
They're crucial for several reasons. First, they can fix security vulnerabilities. Second, updates often improve how your device displays colors and handles graphics, making everything from browsing the web to watching videos better.
Will a pixel update slow down my device?
Not usually. In fact, many updates aim to make devices run more smoothly. However, on very old devices, new updates might strain the hardware, potentially causing slowdowns.
How do I know if my device needs a pixel update?
Most devices will notify you when an update is available. You can also check manually in the device's settings under the "About" or "Software Update" sections.
Can a pixel update fail? What should I do if it does?
Yes, updates can sometimes fail due to issues like a bad internet connection or insufficient storage. If this happens, try restarting your device and attempting the update again. If problems persist, contacting the manufacturer or a professional might be your best bet.

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