Google has allegedly begun the rollout for a second software update on Google Pixel phones in December, which patches critical problems that have appeared on the surface after the big December Pixel Drop and the Android 16 QPR2 rollout. Although Google has not publicly confirmed the release via the official communication channels, there have been several sources, including carrier documentation, which reveal the fact the tech giant has released a small hotfix related to battery drain and touch inputs on affected Pixel phones.
This unexpected update is definitely smaller in size, allegedly around 25MB, and this already gives an indication that this is not a feature-packed update but is actually a stability fix. It’s actually quite rare to have a fix applied right at the middle of each month, and this already provides an indication that there are user concerns that are severe enough to prompt an update before releasing it again next month.
Pixel Models Impacted and Rollout Status
According to various reports, the update is already being released on the following Pixel smartphones:
- Pixel 8 Series
- Pixel 9 Series
- Pixel 10 Series
Most confirmations are coming from users in the United States, with very limited confirmations from users in the UK. As of the time of writing, there is still no confirmation that other Pixel smartphones like the Pixel 6 or Pixel 7 Series are getting the update.
Carrier release notes, especially those from Verizon, have aided in determining that the build of this update is BP4A.251205.006.E1, which corroborates claims that this update is indeed an official Google-maintained hotfix over a regional test build. Yet, Google does not yet have factory images or OTA files available on its official firmware release threads, suggesting a possibly restricted rollout.
Also Read: ‘Apple iOS 26.2 Update 2025 Brings Liquid Glass Controls and Music Upgrades‘
Key Issues Discussed in the Update
The second December patch is allegedly addressing three key areas of concern.
Fixes for Battery Drain Issues
Some users of Pixel reportedly observed rapid battery drain in the wake of the December update. The new hotfix is expected to enhance background process optimization, thereby making battery performance normal again.
Touch Response Enhancements
In some cases, users, especially on the Pixel 10 line, suffered from periodic touch screen failures or unresponsiveness after the update. This problem with touchscreen input has been resolved by the new patch.
Cached Content Access Bug
Secondly, there is the problem that is not very common, which affected people who directly updated from other Android versions to Android 16, which made local content such as offline files inaccessible. The problem seems to be resolved by this update as well.
Why This Update Is Important
December has already proven to be quite eventful for those who are using the Pixel devices, with Google’s Android 16 QPR2 update and the December Pixel Feature Drop. The fact that another update has shown up in the same month indicates how Google is very quick to respond to feedback.
Although this update does not bring new functionality, its role in improving and fixing the issues concerning functionality, power, and overall device functionality can never be underestimated either.
Also Read: ‘Apple iOS 26.2 Update 2025 Brings Liquid Glass Controls and Music Upgrades‘
How to Check for the Update
Eligible users of Pixel phones can manually look out for the update by going to
- Settings > System > Software Update
Since it’s likely that the update has been rolled out in a region- or carrier-specific manner, the update won’t be available to everyone.
On the whole, the second December update for the month fits into the broader commitment by Google to Pixel phone software stability, albeit in a low-key manner.
