- In December, Google will issue the last of the Google Pixel 2 updates.
- After that update, the phone will no longer receive security patches or new Android versions.
- The Pixel 2 will still work without updates, but it won’t be as secure.
We all knew it was coming, but today, Google made it more real. With the launch of the latest Android security patches for Pixel phones, Google confirmed that the last of the Google Pixel 2 updates will land in December 2020. After that, the Pixel 2 series will officially be sunsetted.
Related: How the prices of Google Pixel phones have changed over the years
Technically, this means that the Pixel 2 will receive more updates than Google originally promised. Google only commits to two years of software updates for its Pixel phones, and the Pixel 2 launched in October 2018. However, Google will deliver one final update in December for both the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL before laying them to rest.
The company did something similar with the original Google Pixel, which also stopped receiving updates in December last year.
No more Google Pixel 2 updates
To be clear, people who own a Pixel 2 will still be able to use their phones after the final December update. They will just have to do so knowing that they won’t receive any future security patches or new Android versions. This puts them in danger as their Pixel 2 will be less secure than other actively supported phones.
Of course, those users could then get security updates and new versions of Android from unofficial sources. Lineage OS — one of the most popular custom ROMs for Android — fully supports many Pixel devices, including the Pixel 2 and Pixel XL. If you simply can’t give the phone up, you can always go that route.
Related: Google buyer’s guide: Everything you need to know about Google hardware
If you have no interest in custom ROMs and don’t feel comfortable using a device without updates, you’ll need to upgrade. The brand new Google Pixel 5 appears to be a solid option, or you could save some cash and grab the Pixel 4a or Pixel 4a 5G.
We are certain that a lot of our readers will be upset by this news. Although they likely knew it was coming, the Pixel 2 is one of Android Authority readers’ favorite devices from the past few years. Pour one out, friends.
