Google has begun rolling out the Android 13 November Security Patch to its entire Pixel smartphone lineup. While we would have dismissed this as just another monthly security patch under normal circumstances, the release of the Pixel 7 lineup last month elevates this update to a higher level.
For starters, this is the first software update for the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. Because of the release of these devices, the Google Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL are no longer on the list of Google Pixel devices that will receive monthly software updates (via Google). However, given Google’s track record of issuing one final update to End-Of-Life (EOL) devices, there is a chance.
Please keep in mind that Google will continue to support the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4a 5G with monthly software updates until 2023, when both devices will be phased out. The Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a are the other Pixel smartphones that are currently eligible for Google’s monthly security patches. The Pixel 6a, which was released just a few months before the Pixel 7 lineup, will continue to receive software updates for the next three years — or until 2025.
What’s new with the November 2022 Security Patch for Pixel
As the name implies, the November security patch primarily aims to address newly discovered security vulnerabilities in Android 13. According to Google’s security bulletin, the Android 13 November Patch addresses 19 security issues addressed in a patch dated November 1, 2022, as well as 26 other vulnerabilities addressed in a patch dated November 5, 2022. These vulnerabilities range in severity from moderate to critical. Aside from these security updates, Google has confirmed that this update contains a slew of functional updates that improve various aspects of the phones (via Android).
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The majority of the enhancements appear to be focused on the Pixel’s Bluetooth capabilities. The update will also improve the song info display on some Bluetooth car kits, in addition to improving connection speed when pairing the phone with a new Bluetooth device. Google has also included a number of enhancements for devices that support AVRCP version 1.3.
Furthermore, the November 2022 patch includes enhancements to the Pixel lineup’s camera capabilities. Users should notice improved autofocus during video capture and a faster responding front camera UI after updating to this software version. This software update also modifies the Pixel’s display color mode, brightness, and navigation bar brightness. Patches that improve overall app stability and call quality on Pixel smartphones are also included in this software update. If you own one of the supported Pixel devices, you should receive an OTA update notification in the coming days.
