Google Pixel April update begins rolling out

The start of a new month means it’s time for your Google Pixel to get its software refresh. The April update has begun rolling out, and while it’s not as massive as last month’s Feature Drop, there are still worthwhile enhancements in store. Google is boosting security, tackling some camera quirks, and delivering general improvements.

The April update targets the Pixel 5a up to the latest Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, as well as the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. Here’s what’s included:

Biometrics:

• Fix for issue causing black screen to appear when unlocking screen in certain conditions *[3]

Camera:

• Fix for camera stability under certain conditions when switching between different zooms *[2]
• Fix for issue with black halo artifacts appearing under certain conditions in the viewfinder upon transitioning from photo to video mode at 1x zoom *[1]
• Fix for issue where users are unable to re-expose image after tapping anywhere on the viewfinder *[1]

Device applicability:

*[1] Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8
*[2] Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Fold
*[3] Pixel 5a (5G)

If you own a Pixel, head over to Settings > System > System update to check if it’s ready for your device. Google says to expect wider availability across carriers in the coming days.

In case you can’t be bothered waiting, you can take the manual route? Factory images and OTA files are now available from Google for those who like to jump in early.

While this isn’t as flashy as a Feature Drop, Google’s April update shows a commitment to refining the Pixel experience. Security patches are essential, and those camera fixes for the Pixel 8/8 Pro are sure to be appreciated by those who were bugged with the issue.

Have you received the April update on your Pixel? Let us know in the comments below.