Google has now begun rolling out the stable January 2026 security update, this comes after its recent efforts to resolve app crashes via last year’s Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1.1 update. 

While the previous beta update focused on software stability and app performance, this new public release is a critical "bug-squashing" patch designed to fix hardware-specific glitches, most notably for the flagship Pixel 10 series. 

Solving the Pixel 10 "Flicker" 

The highlight of this update is a long-awaited fix for the Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and 10 Pro Fold. Owners of these devices have reported an annoying flickering issue with the Always-on Display (AOD), where the screen would blink every time the clock updated or a notification arrives. 

Beyond the display, the update also addresses: 

  • Touchscreen Stability: Fixes a bug that caused the screen to occasionally stop responding to touch. 
  • Graphics Performance: General GPU improvements and a fix for "noisy lines" appearing when editing HDR photos in Adobe Lightroom. 

System-Wide Fixes: Battery and Audio 

For users of older models (Pixel 7a through Pixel 9), this update builds on the stability improvements seen in the recent beta cycles. Key general fixes include: 

  • Battery Optimization: A patch for a specific bug that caused excessive battery drain under certain conditions. 
  • Audio Quality: A fix for "noisy ring back tones" experienced during Webex calls. 
  • UI Stability: Resolves a rare issue where deleting "Live Universe" wallpapers would freeze the Wallpaper & Style app. 
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Who is Getting the Update? 

The January patch is currently rolling out to supported devices running Android 16, including: 

  • Pixel 10 Series (All models) 
  • Pixel 9 Series (Including the 9a and Fold) 
  • Pixel 8 Series (8, 8 Pro, 8a) 
  • Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet 

Note: The Pixel 6 series and the standard Pixel 7/7 Pro are missing from this month’s list. These devices have reportedly moved to a quarterly update schedule and are expected to receive their next major patch in March. 

How to Install the January Update 

Google typically rolls these updates out in phases. If you haven't received a notification yet, you can manually trigger the update by following these steps: 

  1. Prepare your device: Ensure your Pixel is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and has at least 50% battery (or is plugged into a charger). 
  2. Open Settings: Locate and tap the Settings app on your home screen or app drawer. 
  3. Navigate to System: Scroll down and select System. 
  4. Check for Updates: Tap on Software updates, then select System update. 
  5. Download and Install: If the January update is available, tap Check for update or Download and install. 
  6. Restart: Once the download and background installation are complete, your phone will prompt you to Restart now. Tap it to finalize the update. 
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