Toni Dimaano Tech 10.03.2022 21:Oct PM EDT

Google Releases Last Guaranteed Software Update for Pixel 4, 4 XL

Google is rolling out its security patch for Pixel in October 2022, and it is the end of the road for Pixel 4 and Pixel 4XL.

While Google continues to update its software for the newer Pixel phones, Pixel 4 and 4XL will see the last bug fix until it is time for them to be cut off, Engadget reports.

Users Can Update Their Pixel 4 Until October Only

In 2019, Google developed and released Pixel 4 as part of its own line of Android phones, which was the first Pixel phone to have a punch-hole camera.

After merely three years, Pixel 4 and 4 XL users will now most likely need to upgrade their phones in order to avail newer features moving forward, according to Android Headlines.

The older generation of Pixel phones, along with the newer ones, are guaranteed security updates and bug fixes for the hums on call while using headphones and for showing WiFi hotspots in certain areas.

Android Headlines claims that users can still opt to use Pixel 4 and 4XL beyond October 2022 and Pixel 4a until August 2023, but they will not be getting essential security updates after those dates.

Different Pixel Generations Are Included In The 'Global' Build

According to Droid Life, the new update will include builds for everyone who has any generation of Pixel starting from Pixel 4 to Pixel 6a, with the latest among the generations until Pixel 7 and 7 Pro going up for pre-order.

The 'global' build for Pixel will include bug changes and fixes in the October patch, which will focus on audio, connectivity, user interface, and WiFi connectivity.

Pixel Phone Help on Google Support elaborates that the software updates include audio bug fixes that will address the issue of occasionally causing audible humming noises during calls that use wired headsets.

It will also help fix the issue of the device volume controls in media player notifications that are not working in certain conditions.

Additionally, Google Support looks to improve Pixel's connectivity by fixing the issue with the launcher, which crashes whenever it is connecting to the VPN.

Similarly, the software update should also address users' problems with regard to devices preventing WiFi networks from appearing in the network collection menu for some apps.

Droid Life reports that Google support is also looking into addressing interface issues that cause compatibility problems with certain app widgets for Android 13 and issues regarding media player display.

This software update will supposedly see bug fixes regarding the issue of device crashes when playing audio from local storage and of unnecessary Quick Setting tiles and Work Profile toggle button appearances.

Google is expected to shortly begin pushing for the updates in the next few days automatically, but users can opt to update manually through the instructions provided in the flash factory image OTA, Droid Life says.