Pixel 8 Series and Earlier Models Receive February Update, Bringing Bug Fixes and Security Patches

Google’s February Update Addresses Bootloader Vulnerability and Six Qualcomm Component-Related Vulnerabilities.

Google has rolled out the Android 14 monthly update to eligible smartphone models, from the Pixel 5a to the Pixel 8 Pro. The Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold, Google’s first Pixel branded tablet and foldable phone, will also receive the February update. The search giant has rolled out a few bug fixes with the latest monthly update, while also patching a few flaws affecting the company’s handsets. Google recently enabled new software features on its newest Pixel 8 series of smartphones.

The company’s release notes published on Monday states that the February Pixel update brings general improvements for camera system stability and performance on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, along with a fix for the phones’ screens appearing corrupted in some scenarios. Users who experienced Wi-Fi stability and performance issues should also update to the latest version, according to the company.

Google Addresses Android Framework Issues and Security Vulnerabilities in February Pixel Update

Google has resolved stability and performance issues within the Android system framework impacting third-party apps on several Pixel models, including the Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro. Additionally, concerns regarding the outer display of the Pixel Fold have been addressed with this latest February update.

Furthermore, the company’s February Pixel update bulletin highlights the patching of a high-severity security vulnerability (CVE-2024-22012) affecting the bootloader, responsible for loading the operating system into memory during device startup.

In addition to addressing the bootloader issue, Google has fixed five security flaws related to Qualcomm components (specifically audio), as well as a vulnerability affecting a closed-source Qualcomm component. These security patches, rated as having ‘moderate’ severity, aim to enhance the overall security of Pixel devices.

To access and install the update, owners of the Pixel 5a and newer models, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet can navigate to the Settings app, select System > Software updates > System update. Following installation and device restart, Pixel owners will benefit from the latest security patches. Google strongly recommends all Pixel hardware owners to promptly download and install the February Pixel update for optimal device security.