Google Releases Likely Final Android 15 Update to Pixel Devices
With Google’s I/O event coming in just a couple short weeks, and likely bringing Android 16 along with it, there was some question as to whether or not Google would deliver a May update for Pixel devices. Somewhat surprisingly, Pixel devices are indeed getting a small patch with a handful of bug fixes just before that likely Android 16 release. Here’s what’s new and what to do if you’re on the 16 beta.
What’s included
The May 2025 update includes bug fixes and improvements for Pixel users – see below for details
Audio
Fix for degraded microphone recording quality in certain apps*[1]
Bluetooth
Fix for Bluetooth pairing issues with certain smartwatches under certain conditions*[1]
Framework
Fix for secondary language displayed in quick settings under certain conditions*[1]
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Device Applicability
Fixes are available for all supported Pixel devices unless otherwise indicated below. Some fixes may be carrier/region specific.
*[1] Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, 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
Leaving the Android 16 Beta
For users who have opted into the Android 16 Beta, the time to opt out without wiping is nearly upon us. Remember, upgrading software versions, like going from Android 16 Beta 4 to the stable release of Android 16 preserves your data and does not requite a wipe. However, downgrading to an older version always requires a complete data wipe.
For right now, if you head to the Android Beta opt in page and opt out now, you will receive the Android 15 Stable release which will wipe your device on installation. If you go this route and don’t want to wipe, do not let it install. The safer route is to wait until news breaks that 16 is rolling out to your device and then opt out. You need to pay attention though, because that pesky downgrade might arrive first along with a message that your device will be wiped. Again, do not let it install and wait for the update that calls itself Android 16.
Another thing to watch for is any future betas that might begin around that same time. While nothing is announced, a Quarterly Platform Release Beta should happen soon. If stay in the beta, you might get sent that new beta and once it’s installed you’re stuck until QPR1 is stable.