Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission.Learn more.
October 2020 Android security update is available for Pixel phones
August 06, 2025
Google hasreleasedAndroid’s October 2020 security update for Pixel phones (viaDroid Life), and it’s an important release — particularly if you’re aPixel 4aowner.
The October 2020 updatefocuseson a security flaw in Android’s System component that could allow an intruder to gain extra permissions through a “specially crafted transmission.” Others allow running arbitrary code, possible data leaking through the media framework, and the possibility of rogue apps getting extra permissions by bypassing user interaction requirements. All but one of the flaws are still considered “high” severity, so you’ll want to upgrade as quickly as possible.
It also includes some fixes for lingering Pixel phone problems. The 4a now has improved auto-brightness response in specific lighting conditions, and should be more responsive when you’re using a screen protector.
Read more:Pixel 5 vs older Google phones
All currently supported Pixel phones (fromthe 2onward) get a series of common fixes. The October 2020 Android update fixes a problem with some devices getting stuck in the boot process, and prevents call notifications from inadvertently turning off. You’ll see fixes for undetected overview swipe gestures in the launcher and a missing auto-rotate icon in some orientations. Every phone expect for the Pixel 2 family also gets better auto-rotation in specific orientations.
Not surprisingly, there are no updates for thePixel 4a 5G or Pixel 5when they haven’t been released yet.
The new software is available now if you’re usingAndroid 11. It should come automatically, but you can installfactory imagesorover-the-air filesif you’re not willing to wait.
Thank you for being part of our community. Read ourComment Policybefore posting.
