Pixel 9 and Android 15 Updates: New features, security fixes, and device enhancements explained

The October 2024 update for Android 15 brings important improvements to a wide range of Google Pixel devices, from the Pixel 6 to the latest Pixel 9 series. Along with the monthly security patch, this update includes the October 2024 Pixel Drop, packed with new features and enhancements. Here’s a breakdown of everything included in this release and what it means for your Pixel experience.

Security and Performance Enhancements

The Android 15 October security patch addresses 28 vulnerabilities across various Pixel models. Google has resolved nine critical issues, primarily focused on system security, with the patch dated October 1, 2024. A second patch, dated October 5, 2024, addresses 19 additional vulnerabilities. These fixes tackle everything from security flaws to stability issues, ensuring your device remains secure and optimized.

Alongside the security patches, several performance improvements and bug fixes are included across key areas such as battery life, charging, biometrics, Bluetooth connectivity, and system performance. Specific Pixel models receive targeted fixes, ranging from camera stability to user interface (UI) improvements.

Pixel Devices Covered by the Update

This update is available for the following Pixel models:

• Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
• Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
• Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a
• Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold
• Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold

Carrier-specific builds for Google Fi devices in the US are also being rolled out, along with global versions for all supported models.

Key Fixes Across Various Pixel Models

• Battery & Charging: Improvements in charging performance and battery life for several devices, including the Pixel 7 and newer models.
• Biometrics: A fix for face unlock stability for Pixel 9 and 9 Pro models.
• Bluetooth: Issues with Bluetooth connections on certain accessories have been resolved for Pixel 9 series devices.
• Camera: The Pixel 9 series receives enhancements in camera stability, making it more reliable under different conditions.
• Display & Graphics: Various stability improvements have been made for devices like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, addressing display issues.
• User Interface: Multiple UI-related bugs, such as incorrect Android icons and issues with transitions and animations, have been addressed across several devices.

New Pixel 9 Features

The Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL receive exclusive features, notably the ability to detect underwater scenes automatically. This new capability enhances both photos and videos, ensuring more vibrant and accurate colors while using waterproof cases for activities like swimming or snorkeling.

Additionally, a Gemini Extension is now available for screenshots, letting users find saved information quickly using voice commands. For example, you can now say, “Hey Google, use Screenshots to find the sneakers I saved.”

Features Rolling Out to All Pixel Devices

Several new features introduced with the Pixel 9 are also coming to older models. These include:

• Astrophotography Enhancements: A dedicated slider in Night Sight mode allows for easier access to astrophotography. Once activated, users have five seconds to set their device down and capture the night sky.
• Theft Protection Suite: This security feature is now available across Pixel devices running Android 15.
• Widget Discovery: Users can now find and organize widgets more easily with the updated widget picker.
• Adaptive Vibration: This feature reduces noise by adjusting vibration intensity based on sound levels in your environment. It applies to ringtones, notifications, and alerts for the Pixel 7 and newer models.

Additionally, Night Sight is now available in Instagram for Pixel 6 and newer models (except the A-series), enhancing low-light photography on the platform.

Updates to Pixel Weather and Thermometer Features

The Pixel Weather app is expanding globally, bringing real-time pollen tracking to regions like France, Germany, Italy, and the UK. The Pixel 8 Pro and other devices will also gain the new Pixel Thermometer UI, allowing users to measure object temperatures through the camera and store recent measurements for up to seven days.

Audio Magic Eraser and Next-Gen Call Screen

The Audio Magic Eraser feature, which debuted on the Pixel 9, lets users control specific sounds in videos, including different voices and background noises. This capability will soon be available on the Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a.

Google is also expanding its Next Gen Call Screen feature to Japan and the UK for Pixel 6 and newer models. Like in the US, this tool offers a more natural-sounding voice with real-time transcriptions and improved automated replies, making it easier to handle calls without speaking directly.

Pixel Tablet and Watch Updates

For Pixel Tablet users, the October 2024 Pixel Drop brings several enhancements, including synchronized notification dismissals across devices and a refreshed screen saver with interactive elements like photo sharing, favoriting, and archiving.

Meanwhile, the Pixel Watch gains a new Individual Contact Tile, providing shortcuts for quick calls and messages. Wear OS users can also now send emoji reactions as replies in Gmail. The Loss of Pulse Detection feature is rolling out to more European countries, joining regions such as Austria, France, and the UK.

Device Connectivity Service Updates

Google has updated the Device Connectivity Service for Pixel devices through the Play Store. While there’s no user-facing interface for this background service, it plays a crucial role in enabling cross-device features, such as Clear Calling and other functionalities related to Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Ultra-Wideband (UWB).

This service has been available on Pixel devices since the Pixel 6, and the latest update includes version 1.0.671214930, with older versions still active on Android 14 and 15 QPR1 Beta 2.

Conclusion

The October 2024 Android 15 security patch and Pixel Drop bring significant updates to both the Pixel 9 series and older devices. Whether it’s enhanced security, new features like underwater photography, or improvements in system stability, this update ensures a more refined experience across the Pixel lineup. With Google continuing to roll out advanced capabilities through its Pixel ecosystem, users can expect a richer, more connected experience with their devices.