Google’s May 2025 Pixel Update: Security Boost with No Turning Back
Google has rolled out the May 2025 security update for its Pixel devices, bringing crucial security enhancements and bug fixes. However, this update comes with a significant caveat: once installed, there's no going back to older firmware versions due to an important anti-rollback feature. Let's dive into what this means for Pixel users.
Enhanced Security Measures
The May 2025 update includes a bootloader update that increments the anti-rollback version. This anti-rollback measure aims to fortify devices against potential exploits from previous vulnerabilities. As Google explains, this prevents malicious actors from flashing older, vulnerable OS versions to exploit recently patched security flaws, notably including zero-day exploits.
According to the Android Security Bulletin, the May update addresses multiple security vulnerabilities, including CVE-2025-27363, which carries a “significant” risk of exploitation. By implementing this anti-rollback threshold, Google safeguards devices with unlocked bootloaders from being compromised through outdated software.
What's New in the Update?
Beyond the critical security enhancement, the May 2025 update brings several bug fixes and improvements for Pixel users. These include:
- Fix for degraded microphone recording quality in certain apps. Many users have reported issues with low recording volume in apps like WhatsApp.
- Fix for Bluetooth pairing issues with specific smartwatches under certain conditions.
- Fix for secondary language displayed in quick settings when it shouldn't be.
Rollout and Availability
The update is being deployed to all supported Pixel devices, ranging from the Pixel 6 series to the latest models, including the Pixel 8a. The rollout is phased, meaning it may take up to a week for the update to reach all users. To check for the update on your device, navigate to Settings -> System -> Software updates -> System update.
A Word of Caution for Rooting and Custom ROM Enthusiasts
While the anti-rollback feature boosts security for most users, it may present limitations for those who enjoy rooting their devices or flashing custom ROMs. Once the May 2025 update is installed, downgrading to older OS versions will no longer be possible. This could impact users who rely on specific older versions for compatibility with their custom setups.
Missing: The Delayed Notification Fix
Unfortunately, the May 2025 update doesn't explicitly address the delayed notification bug that has plagued many Pixel users since the April 2025 update. Users will need to test the new version to determine if this issue has been resolved.
Google's May 2025 Pixel update prioritizes security by implementing an anti-rollback feature, ensuring devices are protected from potential exploits. While this comes at the cost of downgrading flexibility, the added security and bug fixes are welcome improvements for most Pixel users. What are your thoughts on this update? Leave your comments below!
