May 2021 Android security patch rolls out to Pixel phones

It wouldn’t be the start of a new month without an Android security update, and you won’t be disappointed. Google has released the May 2021 patch for the Pixel 3 and newer Pixel phones, and it’s worth grabbing to fix several notable vulnerabilities.

Most of the May Android update tackles flaws in Qualcomm code, including moderate security holes in the camera as well as three closed-source elements. You’ll also see a trio of patches for three kernel flaws affecting MIDI, tracing, and TTY.

See also: Pixel 5a: All the rumors so far

Google hasn’t mentioned any functional improvements to Android in the May update as we write this. While we wouldn’t rule out practical upgrades, this upgrade may really be focused on security above all else.

You should get the May 2021 Android update as an over-the-air patch, with a notification arriving once it’s available. If you can’t wait, though, you can manually install the factory and OTA images using the links below.

May 2021 Android security update links

Note: These links are for unlocked models only. If you have a carrier-branded Pixel, you will need to visit here for factory images or here for OTA images.