Following the stable release last month, Google has started rolling out the first update to Android 15, which includes a November security patch for a range of Pixel devices. This update impacts several models in the Pixel lineup, including Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Tablet, Fold, and the newest Pixel 9 series models (8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold).
Traditionally, Google releases Pixel security patches on the first Monday of each month, but this month’s update arrived midweek, catching some Pixel users by surprise. Nevertheless, the update brings vital security improvements and device-specific bug fixes that should enhance user experience on Android 15.
Key Security Fixes in November Patch
November security update addresses a total of 44 security vulnerabilities, covering both Android platform and Pixel-specific issues. Notable vulnerabilities patched in this update include CVE-2024-43047 (a kernel vulnerability) and CVE-2024-43093, an elevation of privilege flaw that could allow unauthorized access to data. Google and security partners have flagged these vulnerabilities as potentially being under “limited, targeted exploitation,” making this patch a priority for affected devices.
In total, 21 security issues were addressed in the Android 15 November patch dated 2024-11-01, with an additional 23 fixes for vulnerabilities identified by the 2024-11-05 bulletin.
Additional Pixel-Specific Improvements
Alongside general security fixes, the update introduces several Pixel-specific enhancements aimed at fixing device-specific issues across models. Notable improvements include:
- Bluetooth Fixes: Users of newer models in the Pixel 9 series (Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold) will benefit from a fix addressing issues with Bluetooth range, which affected device connectivity in certain conditions.
- Camera Adjustments: Pixel 9 series models will also see improvements to the camera system. The update addresses a specific issue where the camera would tilt unexpectedly when zooming between different lenses under particular circumstances.
- Display & Graphics Fixes: Pixel 8a owners who experienced screen brightness flickering will find this issue resolved, while users of Pixel 9 models should see fixes for occasional white dot flashes that appeared in certain scenarios.
- Sensor and Touch Response Enhancements: The update also enhances the performance of Adaptive Brightness on Pixel 9 devices, ensuring the feature responds correctly to changes in lighting conditions. Additionally, keyboard issues dismiss button not responding as expected have been addressed in Pixel 9 models.
- User Interface Performance Improvements: Finally, all eligible Pixel devices receive general improvements aimed at boosting performance and stability in UI transitions and animations, addressing lagging and minor graphical issues reported by users.
Update Details and Availability
update is rolling out to eligible Pixel devices with the following build numbers based on the device:
- AP3A.241105.007 for Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Tablet, Fold, and Pixel 8 series.
- AP3A.241105.008 for Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold.
Factory and OTA images are already available for download on Google’s official website, and the update is rolling out over–air in stages. Update size varies by model, with a 57.35 MB update for Pixel 9 Pro XL.
What to Expect Next
This update arrives at a time of anticipation for more features from Android 15. public release of Samsung’s One UI 7 update is expected later this month, potentially adding further refinement to the Android ecosystem. Looking further ahead, Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S25 series is likely to become the first flagship Android device to feature Google’s seamless update system, which promises a smoother update process by applying updates in the background.
For Pixel owners, this November patch represents a critical update, particularly for those who rely on security features to protect their devices from known vulnerabilities.
