Unexpected Pixel Update Rolls Out Weeks After December Patch
Pixel users see a surprise update post-December rollout. Fixes include faster battery drain, touch response glitches, and offline content access.
image for illustrative purpose
Google has made a minor system update available for selected Pixel smartphones without any fanfare, and this update comes just a few weeks after the Android 16 QPR2 rollout and the December Pixel Drop.However, unlike the regular monthly updates, this one is small and concentrated, and it is mainly about fixing certain device issues rather than bringing in new features.
The Pixel users first mentioned the update on Reddit forums, where owners of Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and Pixel 10 devices claimed they received an over-the-air (OTA) update right after the main December release. The update's size of approximately 25MB indicates that it is indeed a targeted hotfix.
Reports mainly came from the US, but a few users in the UK confirmed the receipt of the update. The rollout seems to be restricted, as the majority of Pixel users still do not have the patch on their devices.
Google has not issued a changelog, and there is no listing yet for the factory images or OTA files for this build on the Pixel firmware pages. Currently, the listings only show the original December update, which raises doubts about the availability of the patch for older models like the Pixel 6 and 7 series.
Verizon has shed some light on the patch affecting the Pixel 8 to 10 devices. The update, recognized as build BP4A.251205.006.E1, will not only fix issues causing battery drainage but also improve touch responsiveness for Pixel 10 users and allow easier access to locally cached content, including offline media or maps, especially for users who upgraded directly from Android 14 or earlier to Android 16.
Verizon has shed some light on the Pixel 8 to 10 devices patch. The update identified as build BP4A.251205.006.E1, fixes the bugs like quicker battery drain, touch unresponsiveness on Pixel 10, and user trouble in gaining access to locally cached materials, particularly the offline media or maps for, who upgraded their handsets directly from Android 14 or earlier to Android 16.
The month of December has been quite hectic for Pixel users. In addition to the new monthly security update, December Pixel Drop, and regular updates, there is now an extra update that deals with the main bugs affecting only a small group of devices. Google is yet to disclose if the update's coverage will be extended to additional locations or device models.
Verizon has shed some light on the Pixel 8 to 10 devices patch. The update identified as build BP4A.251205.006.E1, fixes the bugs like quicker battery drain, touch unresponsiveness on Pixel 10, and user trouble in gaining access to locally cached materials, particularly the offline media or maps for, who upgraded their handsets directly from Android 14 or earlier to Android 16.
