Pixel Phones Get a Big November Update Early

If you have a Google Pixel phone, a big update is waiting for you. Google started sending it out on Tuesday, Nov. 10, about a month sooner than people expected. Its official name is Android 17 QPR2.

The most important part is safety. The update fixes 232 security holes in Android, plus 166 more that are only on Pixel phones. A security hole is a weak spot a crook could use to get into your phone. Updating closes them.

It also adds new protection against phone scams. When you are on a call with someone who isn't in your contacts, the phone now blocks some risky steps, like turning on Developer options. Scammers often ask people to do that. The phone will also ask you to confirm before it runs a call-forwarding code.

It fixes everyday problems too. Google says it fixes stutter when you scroll, a keyboard that sometimes won't show up in search boxes, and a charging sign that appears when nothing is plugged in. Pixel 11 owners get fixes for battery drain and for photos that sometimes don't save.

There is fun stuff as well. You can pick any color you like for your phone's look with a new slider. You can also choose which small icons show at the top of the screen.

The update works on the Pixel 6a and every Pixel after it, up to the Pixel 11 phones. The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro don't get it, because Google stopped updating them.

To get it, open Settings, tap System, then tap Software updates. Plug in your phone and use Wi-Fi, because the download is big. If you signed up to test early Android versions, leave that test program first so you don't lose your data.

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References

• Source: Android 17 QPR2 Stable Update Arrives Early on Pixel Phones - Beebom Gadgets
• Source: Android 17 QPR2 November update rolling out with 33 Pixel fixes - 9to5Google