This is the monthly security update that Google sends out to its devices and it shares with its partners. It does include a number of new features that are available only on the Pixel. We have actually already seen this patch roll out to some other smartphones from Samsung, ahead of Google actually announcing the patch. Which is something we’ve seen a lot of lately.
What’s been fixed in this patch?
Google fixed a ton of vulnerabilities in the November 2022 security patch for Pixel and other Android devices. As per usual, Google has not detailed each vulnerability. This is done on purpose so that those that have not received the update (which right now, is everyone) is not the victim of an attack. Detailing the vulnerabilities is like giving the keys to hackers, to your device. So this is done to protect everyone. But there are a ton of changes made to Qualcomm and MediaTek devices, as well as vulnerabilities in the Android Runtime and more. You can check out the security bulletin here, to see exactly what Google has fixed with this update to Pixels and Android in general. This quarterly update does also fix over 170 bugs on the Pixel 7 series. So it’s a pretty big update.
What devices are supported in the December 2022 security patch?
The December 2022 security patch is rolling out to Pixel devices now. And it supports the Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro. The Verizon versions will be rolling out later this week. Most smartphones released in the last two to three years will also be supported. You’ll need to wait for your smartphone manufacturer to roll out the update though. Make sure to update your Pixel device as soon as you get this update, and don’t put it off. Security updates are not great for putting off til later on.
