Why trust Greenbot
Google has released the January 2019 security patch for compatible Pixel devices. The January 2019 security patch is only available for the Pixel series, with Google dropping support for the Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X.
Google promises 3-year security updates for its Nexus and Pixel devices according to which the Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X were no longer certified to receive updates after November 2018. However, Google did roll out the December 2018 security patch for them but that was the end of the road for them. This marks the end of Google’s Nexus brand known primarily for its stellar value for money.
As for the January 2019 security patch, it only brings about one major functional change: improved audio quality while recording videos on the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL. Pixel 3 owners have been complaining about tinny audio in the videos they record. Google fixed this issue to a certain extent with the December 2018 security patch, with the January patch bringing in even more improvements.
The ‘Check for Updates’ button seems to be working again so if you own a Pixel, Pixel 2, or Pixel 3, simply head over to the Updates section and tap the button to trigger the security update download on your device.
You can find details on all the vulnerabilities patched in the January 2019 security update in the Android security bulletin, while Pixel specific changes can be found in the Pixel Update Bulletin.
