Pixel Owners, Upgrade Your Phones Now
Following the discovery of a number of high-profile Android exploits, Google has released a new security update, Android 14 . The latest version of the operating system is now available on supported Pixel devices and should be available on more devices in the near future as manufacturers release it. Those with supported phones should download the update as soon as possible. In addition to eliminating exploits, the update also fixes ongoing issues with the camera and Bluetooth LE.
The details of the exploits in question are somewhat technical, but they include several high-level vulnerabilities (even some with a “critical” rating) that aim to provide attackers with local privilege escalation (giving them control over the very basic structure of your device).
Giving someone this kind of access is risky because it could allow them to install new malware and monitor what you do with your phone. That’s how many malicious apps, like the new Brokewell malware , can take control of your phone and log your keystrokes, login details, and other sensitive personal data.
Google’s website lists at least ten different high-level security issues that are being addressed in the Android 14 May update. Some of these issues are related to the Android 14 platform, while others are related to the system processes that control the phones themselves. Some updates also affect other operating systems, including Android 12, Android 12L and Android 13.
There are four different OS update builds available for Pixel users depending on the carrier, including Global, KDDI (Japan), T-Mobile, C Spire, US Cellular, Cellcom, and Verizon. The update began rolling out on Tuesday, and it may arrive to you at different times depending on where your device and network are in the rollout timeline.
How to install the latest security update on your Pixel
While the update can be installed manually by following the instructions on Google’s website, most users are best served by installing it over-the-air. If you have a Pixel 7 or later, you can install the update in Settings > System > Advanced > System Update . If you have a Pixel 5 or Pixel 6, you can also install the update using the same steps, but only for the global build.