Google’s Tiniest August 2025 Security Update Released
Google has officially rolled out the August 2025 security update for Pixel devices, bringing crucial bug fixes and system improvements that the community has been eagerly anticipating. This update addresses several persistent issues that have been plaguing Pixel users for months, particularly around navigation controls and dark theme functionality. The update weighs just 11 MB in size.
Back in June 2025, Google officially released the first stable version of Android 16 with June 2025 security patch and many new features. Devices from Pixel 9 Pro all the way down to Pixel 6 received Android 16 software update. Following this, the search giant also surprised Android users with a small but feature-rich July Pixel Feature Drop featuring New Circle to Search capabilities, and Gemini on Pixel Watch! Plus, Veo 3 with Pixel 9 Pro owners get a full year of our Google AI Pro subscription at no cost.
While Material 3 Expressive Design is still absent, Gemini officially comes to Pixel Watches. You can even download the new Google Gemini for Wear OS app from the Play Store for smartwatches like the Galaxy Watch, Tic Watch, and more.
The Google Pixel August 2025 Security Update has finally arrived for all Pixel devices. See what’s new.
What Devices Are Getting the Update?
The August 2025 security patch is available for all supported Pixel devices, though there are some notable differences in build numbers and feature availability:
Latest Build Numbers (BP2A.250805.005):
- Pixel 7 series (7, 7 Pro, 7a)
- Pixel 8 series (8, 8 Pro, 8a)
- Pixel 9 series (9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a)
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel Fold
Older Build Numbers:
- Pixel 6 & 6 Pro: BP2A.250605.031.A5 (June-based)
- Pixel 6a: BP2A.250705.008.A1 (July-based)
The discrepancy in build dates for the Pixel 6 series has raised questions in the community about Google’s commitment to uniform update delivery across its device lineup.
What’s new in Android’s August 2025 Security Patch
Key Fixes and Improvements
This August update focuses on addressing fundamental user experience issues that have been persistent pain points:
System Stability Enhancements
Google has implemented general improvements for system stability and performance under specific conditions. While the company hasn’t provided detailed specifics, these optimizations should result in smoother overall device operation.
Dark Theme Schedule Fix
One of the most celebrated fixes addresses the scheduled dark theme functionality that has been broken for nearly a year. Users who set their devices to automatically switch between light and dark themes based on time schedules can finally expect this feature to work reliably.
Navigation Control Improvements
The update resolves issues affecting both 3-button navigation and gesture navigation systems. These problems had been causing unresponsive or erratic behavior, particularly frustrating for users who rely on these core interaction methods.
Community Response
The Pixel community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the dark theme fix. Users have reported small download sizes ranging from approximately 6MB on Pixel 6 devices to around 25MB on newer Pixel 9a models, indicating these are focused patches rather than comprehensive system overhauls.
However, some users are reporting that certain issues persist even after installation. A few Pixel 9 Pro XL owners have noted that the dark theme scheduling still isn’t functioning perfectly, suggesting that complete resolution may require additional updates.
Pixel 6 Series
A concerning trend emerges when examining the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro update details. These devices are receiving builds based on June security patches rather than the current August patches, and they’re explicitly excluded from several functional improvements. This has led some members to question whether Google’s five-year support promise is being fulfilled with the same quality across all devices.
Ongoing Issues Not Addressed
Several persistent problems remain unresolved, including:
- Fast charging issues on Android 16
- Extra Dim functionality problems
- Play Store update failures
- Video recording zoom issues on Pixel 6 Pro
Looking Ahead: September 2025 Patch
Google has announced the September update to bring QPR1 (Quarterly Platform Release 1) features, including the highly anticipated Material 3 Expressive design language. This suggests Google may be moving toward a more structured release schedule with major feature updates arriving quarterly alongside regular monthly security patches.
Installation
Method 1: OTA downloads
The best option is to visit Settings > System Updates > Check for OTA updates on your phone settings.
Method 2: Manual Installation
Alternatively, you can get Android 16 on select Pixel devices by downloading the full Factory Images listed below and install them via the new Android Flash Tool portal.
You will need to enable USB Debugging (ADB access) and OEM Unlocking before flashing the Android 16 stable image.
For advanced users, manual installation options include:
- Android Flash Tool Files (Install)
- Factory Image Files (Downloads)
- Apply OTA images — can be installed without data reset and bootloader unlocking
- Installation Instructions (Install)
- Download Android 16 GSI (Generic System Image)
