Google is sending out a new Android update for your Pixel, and this one addresses multiple major problems. One bug that was first introduced with the Android 16update has finally been fixed, and a critical security vulnerability that could let hackers into your device without any user interaction has been plugged.
Shortly before the update started going out, Google published the August 2025 Android Security Bulletin. Today’s Pixel update contains all the relevant fixes outlined in the Android-wide bulletin, as well as a single Pixel-specific security patch for a modem vulnerability.
A critical vulnerability left Android wide open
In Google’s own words, “the most severe” issue fixed with the August 2025 security patches was CVE-2025-48530. This vulnerability, in combination with other existing bugs, could allow hackers to remotely execute code on your device with absolutely no interaction from you. In other words, bad actors didn’t need to tap a button or install an app, nor did they even need access to your phone in order to execute the hack.
In total, two critical-severity CVEs (common vulnerabilities and exposures) were addressed in the August 2025 patches, as well as four additional high-severity CVEs.
Back button bug is finally squashed on the stable channel
Immediately after Android 16 started rolling out in June, many Pixel users started noticing an issue where the back button or gesture would become unresponsive. The problem would occur seemingly at random, requiring a reboot in order to restore back navigation functionality on affected devices.
Google acknowledged the bug shortly after and said a fix was on the way. People on the beta channel got this fix when Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2.1 rolled out in late June, but frustratingly for those running Google’s stable software, the July security update still had the bug.
Thankfully, Google’s release notes say that the back button bug has finally been fixed in today’s update. A separate bug with scheduled dark theme has also been resolved, and “general improvements” to performance and stability are included.
The August 2025 update includes bug fixes and improvements for Pixel users – see below for details
- General improvements for system stability and performance in certain conditions
- Fix for an issue where the scheduled dark theme was not working in certain conditions
- Fix for issues with 3-button navigation and gesture navigation in certain conditions
Rolling out now to eligible Pixels
Today’s update is being made available to all of Google’s phones, tablets, and foldables, dating back to 2023’s Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. Interestingly, these two models were left off last month’s eligibility list — but Google had previously promised them OS upgrades through October 2026 after initially saying they would stop last year, so it’s good to see them get this important round of security patches.
Google says the update is already in the process of rolling out, though it could take a week before it becomes available to everyone. To see if it’s ready on your device, head to Settings → System → Software updates → System update and tap the Check for updates button.
Thanks: Moshe!
