Google Moves Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 to Quarterly Updates
Google has quietly shifted its Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 smartphones from monthly updates to a quarterly schedule. This means these devices will no longer receive the frequent security and feature patches that Pixel users have historically expected. While newer Pixels continue with monthly updates, owners of the older models now face a slower update cycle.
The change first became noticeable around mid-2025 when Pixel 6 devices began missing their usual monthly patches. By late 2025, both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series had skipped multiple updates. Google's February 2026 security patch confirms that the next update for these models will arrive in March 2026, marking a clear shift in update policy.
Why Google Isn’t Offering Monthly Updates
Many users expressed frustration online over the slowdown, but Google has clarified that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series remain fully supported and compliant with security standards for the duration of their support windows. Historically, Google’s documentation never explicitly promised monthly updates—it only committed to a set number of years for software and security support.
The Pixel 6 lineup continues to receive support until October 2026, while the Pixel 7 series has coverage extending into 2027. Despite fewer updates, users can still expect essential security patches, ensuring devices remain safe from vulnerabilities.
How This Affects Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 Owners
For Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 users, the most noticeable difference will be the delay in feature updates and security fixes. While monthly updates provided frequent improvements and bug fixes, quarterly updates bundle these changes, meaning longer waits between patches.
This also affects how quickly users receive critical fixes for potential security issues. However, Google has assured customers that the devices remain compliant with industry security standards, meaning there’s no immediate risk from the reduced update frequency.
What About Newer Pixel Models?
It’s important to note that newer Pixel models, including the Pixel 8 series and beyond, remain on the monthly update cycle. This ensures that owners of the latest devices continue to receive timely security patches and software improvements. Google appears to be prioritizing its most recent devices while gradually scaling back support frequency for older models approaching the end of their support window.
This approach aligns with standard smartphone industry practices, where older devices gradually move to less frequent update cycles as they near the end of official support.
What This Means for the Future of Pixel Updates
The shift for Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 phones may signal a broader trend for Google. As the company releases newer devices each year, older models could increasingly receive quarterly updates rather than monthly patches. This helps Google focus resources on current and upcoming devices while still maintaining security compliance for older models.
For users, the key takeaway is to stay aware of update schedules and plan device upgrades accordingly. Those seeking the most frequent updates may consider moving to newer models, while others can continue using Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 with confidence that essential security protections remain intact.
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