Google Pixel Phones Reach Software Update Expiration Date

Google Pixel phones have an expiration date when it comes to software updates. According to Google's official help page, devices older than the Pixel 5 will no longer receive operating system version or security updates.

The Pixel 1, 2, 3, and 4, as well as their XL models, A-line phones, and 5G-enabled versions, have reached the end of their software update cycle. The most recent device to stop receiving updates is the Pixel 5a with 5G, which was launched in August 2021 and received its last update in late 2024.

For newer devices, such as the Pixel 8 onwards, including Pro models like the Pixel 11 Pro Fold and A-line models like the Pixel 9a, Google guarantees seven years of updates from their launch date in the U.S. This means that no matter when you buy one of these devices, it will continue to receive updates until sometime in 2033.

However, security updates are a different story. If your device is no longer receiving regular security updates or safety patches, it's less safe to use. Without constant updates, the likelihood of your device being compromised or infected with a virus can increase.