Critical Android Vulnerabilities Fixed – Check Affected Pixel Models and How to Update
Google has released a critical security update for its Pixel smartphone lineup in December 2025, addressing serious vulnerabilities that security researchers report as being exploited in limited, targeted attacks. The update comes in response to two high-severity security flaws affecting the Android Framework that have been used in targeted attacks.
This comprehensive security patch affects millions of Pixel users worldwide and includes fixes for over 100 vulnerabilities across multiple device components. Users are strongly encouraged to install the update immediately to protect their devices from potential security threats.
Why Google Released This Emergency Update
The December 2025 security update addresses a critical situation involving two vulnerabilities, CVE-2025-48633 and CVE-2025-48572, which have been confirmed as under limited, targeted exploitation. These vulnerabilities are not merely theoretical and have been observed in limited real-world attack scenarios.
According to security researchers, these exploitation campaigns are consistent with tactics used by advanced persistent threat groups and commercial spyware vendors who historically target high-profile individuals including journalists, activists, and political figures. The sophisticated nature of these attacks prompted Google to prioritize this security release.
The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency added both vulnerabilities to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on December 2, 2025, requiring federal agencies to patch their devices by December 23, 2025. This designation underscores the severity of these security flaws. U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
This information is based on Google’s official Android Security Bulletin and disclosures from cybersecurity research organizations.
Vulnerability tracking references include publicly available CVE records and government cybersecurity advisories.
Security Issues and Vulnerabilities Fixed
The December 2025 update patches a total of 107 Android vulnerabilities across multiple components including the Framework, System, Kernel, and third-party hardware drivers.
Source:
The Two Critical Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
CVE-2025-48633 (Information Disclosure) :- This high-severity vulnerability in the Android Framework allows attackers to leak sensitive system memory, potentially bypassing Android's sandboxing protections. The flaw can be exploited to extract confidential data such as authentication tokens, cryptographic keys, and other sensitive information stored in device memory.
CVE-2025-48572 (Privilege Escalation) :- This elevation-of-privilege vulnerability enables attackers who have gained initial access to escalate their privileges, granting deeper access to the device's operating system and persistent control. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it allows malicious actors to bypass security restrictions and execute unauthorized actions with system-level permissions.
Both vulnerabilities affect Android versions 13, 14, 15, and 16, making a substantial portion of the Android ecosystem vulnerable until patches are applied.
Source for CVE Details:
Additional Security Patches
Beyond the two actively exploited vulnerabilities, the update includes fixes for dozens of other security issues. The December patch addresses 51 security issues in the 2025-12-01 patch level and 56 vulnerabilities in the 2025-12-05 patch level, ranging from High to Critical severity.
The comprehensive bulletin also includes patches for hardware-specific components from manufacturers including ARM, Imagination Technologies, MediaTek, Unisoc, and Qualcomm.
Which Pixel Models Are Affected
The December 2025 security update is available for a wide range of Pixel devices, though availability varies between the initial comprehensive update and subsequent emergency patches.
Devices Receiving the Main December Update
The primary December 2025 update covers Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a, Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL.
Secondary Emergency Update
Following the main December release, Google rolled out a second, smaller emergency update that appears limited to Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and Pixel 10 series devices. This targeted patch addresses specific issues that emerged after the initial update, including battery drain problems and display responsiveness issues on certain models.
Important Note About Pixel 7a
Some Pixel 7a users have reported delays in receiving the December update. While most supported devices received the patch in early December, reports indicate that Pixel 7a devices remain on the November 2025 security patch, with the rollout reportedly paused after a Wi-Fi-related bug was discovered late in testing.
How to Update Your Pixel Device
Updating your Pixel phone to receive these critical security fixes is straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your device is protected:
Automatic Update Process
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Wait for the notification: Most users will receive an automatic notification when the update is available for their device. Updates roll out in phases, so it may take up to a week for the update to reach all devices.
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Ensure adequate battery: Make sure your device has at least 50% battery charge, or connect it to a charger during the update process.
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Connect to Wi-Fi: Download the update over a Wi-Fi connection to avoid using mobile data and ensure a stable connection.
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Follow on-screen prompts: When the notification appears, tap to begin the update process and follow the on-screen instructions.
Manual Update Check
If you haven't received an automatic notification, you can manually check for the update:
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Open Settings: Launch the Settings app on your Pixel device.
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Navigate to System: Scroll down and tap on "System."
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Select Software Updates: Tap on "Software updates" or "System update" (the exact wording may vary slightly between Android versions).
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Check for Update: Tap "Check for update" to manually trigger a search for available updates.
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Download and Install: If the update is available, tap "Download" and then "Install" when the download completes.
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Restart Your Device: Your phone will restart automatically to complete the installation process.
After Installing the Update
After the update completes:
- Allow 2-3 hours for the system to reoptimize apps and settle battery usage
- Verify your security patch level by going to Settings > About Phone > Android Version
- Check that your patch level shows "December 5, 2025" or later to confirm all security fixes are applied
Why This Update Is Critical in 2025 and Beyond
The December 2025 security update represents more than just routine maintenance—it reflects the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the increasing sophistication of mobile threats.
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Rising Mobile Security Threats
As of November 30, 2025, the number of reported CVEs surpassed 42,000, marking a 16.9% increase compared to 2024, with an average of 128 newly disclosed vulnerabilities each day. This accelerating pace of vulnerability discovery underscores the critical need for proactive defense and rapid patch deployment.
Targeted Surveillance Concerns
The exploitation of these specific vulnerabilities highlights a troubling trend: the use of sophisticated mobile spyware in targeted surveillance campaigns. Security experts note that these types of attacks are typically deployed against specific high-value targets rather than mass exploitation, making them harder to detect but no less dangerous to affected individuals.
The Importance of Timely Updates
Mobile devices store increasingly sensitive personal and professional information. From banking credentials to private communications, the data on smartphones represents a valuable target for attackers. Keeping devices updated with the latest security patches is the most effective defense against known vulnerabilities.
Google's rapid response to these actively exploited vulnerabilities demonstrates the company's commitment to user security. However, the effectiveness of these patches depends entirely on users actually installing them. Security researchers emphasize that updates are only protective once they're deployed to devices.
Long-Term Security Support
This update also highlights Google's extended support commitment. Pixel 8 and later devices receive seven years of security updates, while Pixel 6, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Fold models receive five years of both software and security updates. This extended support ensures that even older devices continue receiving critical security patches.
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Additional December 2025 Fixes
Beyond the critical security vulnerabilities, the December update includes numerous bug fixes and stability improvements:
Bug Fixes Across All Supported Models
- Fixed battery icon displaying empty or showing question marks
- Resolved 80% charge limit setting inconsistencies
- Improved Bluetooth connectivity with certain devices
- Enhanced Always-On Display responsiveness when unlocking
- Fixed keyboard flickering or failure to appear when searching in the app drawer
- Resolved Google Home controls launching as blank screen
- Fixed screen freezing with gesture navigation or app switching
- Addressed issues causing instability and intermittent problems with emergency calling functionality
- Improved network connection stability and performance
Model-Specific Improvements
Pixel 10 Series:
- Fixed display flickering, remaining black, hanging, or freezing issues
- Addressed severe battery drain problems affecting the Pixel 10 lineup
- Resolved intermittent touch responsiveness issues
Pixel 8 and Newer:
- Enhanced Wi-Fi stability under specific conditions
- Improved charging and overall battery performance
- Fixed rainbow effect in photos taken with ultra-wide and telephoto lenses
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if my Pixel has the latest security update?
Check your security patch level by going to Settings > About Phone > Android Version. If it shows "December 5, 2025" or later, you have the latest security patches installed. You can also navigate to Settings > System > Software updates to check for available updates.
2. What should I do if the update isn't available for my device yet ?
Updates roll out in phases over approximately one week. If your device hasn't received the update notification, manually check for updates through Settings > System > Software updates. If still unavailable, be patient—the update will arrive shortly. Avoid clearing Google Services Framework as this can cause sync issues without accelerating delivery.
3. Are these vulnerabilities dangerous for average users ?
While these specific vulnerabilities have been used in targeted attacks rather than mass exploitation, they represent serious security risks. The ability to access sensitive information and escalate privileges makes these flaws dangerous to any user. Installing the update is important regardless of whether you consider yourself a high-value target.
4. Will updating my phone delete my data?
No, security updates do not delete personal data. However, it's always good practice to ensure your data is backed up regularly. Make sure you have at least 50% battery or are connected to a charger during the update process to prevent interruption.
5. My Pixel 7a hasn't received the December update. Is something wrong ?
There have been reports of delayed rollout for Pixel 7a devices due to a Wi-Fi-related bug discovered during testing. Google is working on resolving this issue, and the update should arrive later in December or early January. Your device is still supported and will receive the security update.
6. How long does the update take to install ?
The download size and installation time vary by device and internet connection speed. The main December update typically takes 15-30 minutes to download and install, while the secondary emergency patch is smaller at approximately 25MB and installs more quickly. Your device will restart during the installation process.
7. Can I use my phone while the update downloads ?
Yes, you can continue using your phone while the update downloads in the background. However, once you tap "Install," your phone will restart and be temporarily unavailable until the installation completes. Plan accordingly and avoid starting the installation if you're expecting important calls or messages.
8. Do I need both the December update and the emergency patch ?
If you're using a Pixel 8, 9, or 10 series device, you may receive both the initial December update and a subsequent smaller emergency patch. Install both updates as they address different issues. The secondary patch primarily fixes battery drain and display responsiveness problems specific to newer models.
9. Will this update affect my phone's performance or battery life ?
The update includes specific fixes to improve battery performance and system stability. Some users may notice improved battery life and smoother performance after installation. Allow 2-3 hours after updating for the system to reoptimize apps and settle into normal battery usage patterns.
10. What happens if I don't install this update ?
Choosing not to install security updates leaves your device vulnerable to the patched exploits. Given that these specific vulnerabilities are actively being exploited, delaying the update increases your security risk. While you may not be immediately targeted, having unpatched vulnerabilities exposes your device and data to potential attacks.
Conclusion
The December 2025 security update for Google Pixel devices represents a critical response to actively exploited vulnerabilities affecting millions of users worldwide. With confirmed real-world exploitation of framework vulnerabilities and over 100 security patches included, Installing this update is strongly recommended to ensure your device remains protected against known security risks.
By following the simple update process outlined in this article, Pixel users can protect their devices from sophisticated attacks targeting sensitive personal information. Google's rapid response and comprehensive patch deployment demonstrate the company's commitment to user security, but the effectiveness of these protections depends on users actually installing the updates.
Users are advised to check for and install the December 2025 security update on their Pixel devices to stay protected.” on your Pixel device today. Your personal data security depends on it.
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