Google rolls out first Android update of 2026 to Pixel phones

January security update fixes battery drain and display bugs on eligible Pixel devices

Published January 13, 2026

Google kicks off the initial Android update of 2026 for Pixel smartphones, featuring the monthly security patch and some critical patch fixes. The update process begins on Monday, focusing on battery drain, touch, and always-on display-related problems.

The January 2026 update introduces no new features but solely aims for improvement and optimisation. Google announces that the update resolves issues with excessive battery drain, unresponsive touch input on some screens, and an issue with the always-on display on certain phones. Despite being only 7.60MB, this update maintains the importance of having secure and stable Pixel smartphones.

Pixel devices receiving January 2026 update

Pixel 7a
Pixel Tablet
Pixel Fold
Pixel 8
Pixel 8 Pro
Pixel 8a
Pixel 9
Pixel 9 Pro
Pixel 9 Pro XL
Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Pixel 9a
Pixel 10
Pixel 10 Pro
Pixel 10 Pro XL
Pixel 10 Pro Fold

Pixel devices not receiving January 2026 update

Pixel 6
Pixel 6 Pro
Pixel 7
Pixel 7 Pro

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