If your Pixel has not received an Android update, first check its update status and exact model. The cause may be a staged rollout, a failed download, an update waiting for a restart, or the end of that model’s support period. Open Settings > System > Software updates (the menu may instead say System update or Software update) and follow the message on screen.
Check what is happening before troubleshooting
Start by recording the phone’s full Pixel model name, Android version, security update level, and build number. You can find the version, security update level, and build number under Settings > About phone; menu labels can vary slightly by Android version. These details help distinguish an update that has not been offered from one that downloaded but has not been installed.
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Google’s Android update instructions explain how to check update status and version information. For Pixel-specific guidance, see Google’s Pixel update instructions.
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Check whether your Pixel is still eligible
Update support depends on the exact model. Google’s current Pixel software update policy says Pixel 8 and later receive seven years of OS and security updates, while Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 families and Pixel Fold receive five years. Those periods are measured from when each device first became available on the Google Store in the US—not from the day you bought it or a single shared cutoff date.
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
Google lists Pixel 5a and earlier as no longer receiving Android version or security updates. Older devices may also be unable to run newer Android versions. If your model has reached the end of its support period, troubleshooting cannot make it eligible for a new Android version or security update.
If your Pixel is supported but no update appears
Google releases Pixel updates gradually. Availability depends on the device and mobile operator, and Google says an update may take a few weeks to reach a phone. A public announcement therefore does not mean every supported Pixel will receive the update immediately. Check again later; Google’s guidance does not provide a specific release date for each carrier or individual phone.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
If the download failed or storage is low
If the phone says an update download did not finish, Google says it will automatically try again over the next few days and notify you when the update is available again. If you see an insufficient-storage message, follow Google’s storage guidance to free space. Freeing space can address a storage problem, but it does not extend a model’s support period.
If the update downloaded but is not active
Pixel phones install downloaded Android updates in the background. The update becomes active the next time the phone restarts. Restart the device if an update has finished installing, then return to Settings > About phone to check the Android version and security update level.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When to use Google’s repair tool
If the normal update steps do not resolve an issue that matches Google’s repair guidance, Google offers an official Update and Software Repair tool. It requires a computer and a USB cable compatible with both the Pixel and the computer. Back up important data before any repair operation that could erase it. Google’s instructions do not establish that the tool can provide updates to a model that has reached end of support, so do not treat it as a way around the support policy.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
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