Google has released the Android Security Bulletin for Pixel devices and detailed its findings.These exploits and security issues affect Android in general. While issues with the operating systems, kernel patches and driver updates might not be relevant to a particular device, these issues must be addressed in the Android base by those responsible for maintaining the operating system code. Google has detailed what they've done to improve the Android base for this month.The factory images are updated for Pixel devices that are still supported. Over-the-air updates are also available. You can also download the factory image and OTA update files manually if you don't wish to wait. Here are some helpful instructions.These patches are used by the company that created your phone to send you an update.These updates have been available to those who make the best Android phones for at most 30 days. However, Google cannot force anyone to give them to you. If you have a Samsung, LG or other Android phone, you will need to wait for the update to be sent. You shouldn't attempt to flash any of these files. This could have happened already, but OEMs may send the patch prior to the deadline Google must follow so the exploits don't get publicized.Google safety checks are in place to protect your phone from any security exploits. Verify Apps, SafetyNet and seamless updates from Google Play Services will ensure they are always up-to-date regardless of delays or interruptions by a carrier or manufacturer. You can find more information about Android Enterprise Security here.Project Mainline allows devices with Android 10 or later to receive security updates through Google Play system updates.Highlights from the August 2021 security bulletinHigh-severity issues were addressed in the Android Framework, Media Framework and System libraries, as usual.Media Codecs (a background service that collects metrics) and the Media Framework were both updated by Project Mainline.MediaTek and Qualcomm have updated both closed-source and open-source components in order to fix exploits in their hardware.Widevine DRM components were updated in order to fix a critical vulnerability.Updates specific to PixelsGoogle has released Pixel-specific patches as part of its monthly Pixel 3a, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a and Pixel 5a. These will affect all phones that are currently supported. We often see functional updates or bug fixes, in addition to security patches. In August, an issue that could accidentally trigger Google Assistant was fixed.
