A growing number of Google Pixel devices left behind with Android 15 update

Google’s Pixel phones have carved a niche for themselves in the Android world, not just for their clean software experience but also for their impressive update policy. From the very first Pixel in 2016, Google has consistently upped its game, extending the software support window for its devices with subsequent releases.

Remember the Pixel 1? It launched with a 3-year update window, promising two major Android OS updates. Fast forward to today, and the Pixel 8 series boasts a whopping 7 years of updates, ensuring users stay on the cutting edge of software for a long time. However, with each new Android iteration, the update landscape for older Pixel devices shifts. With the arrival of Android 15, a bittersweet reality emerges: while some Pixel devices happily embrace the new update, others will be left behind.

Only 10 lucky Pixel devices will be officially upgraded to Android 15. These include the Pixel 8 series, the Pixel 7 series, the Pixel 6a, the Pixel 6 series, the Pixel Fold, and the Pixel Tablet. This means a total of 14 Pixel devices, ranging from the Pixel 5a all the way back to the Pixel 1, will miss out on the latest Android goodies.

This shift in update dynamics is quite interesting. Previously, the majority of Pixel devices enjoyed the latest software updates. Now, the tables have turned, with a larger chunk of the Pixel family running on older Android versions. Why the change? It’s likely a reflection of Google’s expanding hardware portfolio. As their device lineup grows, it becomes increasingly challenging to maintain long-term software support for every single Pixel phone. It will be interesting to see how many Pixel devices Google will be updating regularly some five years from now given that 7 years of updates is the new norm.

So, what does this mean for Pixel users? If you own a Pixel 8 series phone, Pixel 7 series phone, Pixel 6a, Pixel 6 series phone, Pixel Fold, or Pixel Tablet, you can rest assured – your device will be bathed in the sunshine of Android 15. However, if you’re rocking an older Pixel model, like the Pixel 5a or earlier, it’s time to accept that you might be stuck on an older software version.

This doesn’t necessarily mean your phone is obsolete. It will still function perfectly well, but you might miss out on the latest features and security improvements that come with newer Android releases. The Pixel Experience ROM offered a nifty way to stay on the latest Pixel software unofficially, but the project was discontinued. However, here are 5 excellent alternatives to try out.

It’s a reminder that the software update landscape is constantly evolving, and even Google, with its commendable update policy, has to make tough choices as its device family grows. While the number of Pixel devices running older software has increased, the good news is that Google is still offering extended support compared to many other Android phone manufacturers.