The newest Android 16 update for Pixel users has been released, including a unique Pixel Feature Drop. The November Android 16 update for Pixel devices is crucial, providing key fixes and security enhancements. To update your device, navigate to Settings, then System, select Software updates (or System update), and press Check for update. If the November update is required for your device, you will be prompted to proceed.
As stated in a Google post on Nov. 10: The monthly software update for November 2025 is being rolled out. All compatible Pixel devices operating on Android 16 will start receiving these updates today, with the rollout occurring over the next week in phases, depending on the carrier and device. A notification will be sent to you once the update is available. We advise checking your Android version and updating to access the latest software.
Highlights of the November Pixel Feature Drop
In addition to security enhancements in the Android 16 November release, Google revealed a new Pixel Feature Drop. This includes additional features for Pixel owners, particularly in messaging. A prominent feature is Remix in Google Messages, enabling Pixel users to modify or recreate images using Nano Banana, Google’s Gemini image creation and editing model. Nano Banana was introduced for Google Photos last month and is now accessible.
Pixel devices will also provide notifications with AI-generated summaries of lengthy texts, group conversations, and chat exchanges across messaging platforms. Important contacts, such as family and close friends, will have message prioritization in notifications. The new Scam Detection feature for Pixel 6 models and newer alerts users about possible scam messages with a “Likely scam” label.
Enhanced AI photo editing options are offered with the help of Nano Banana. Custom edits in Google Photos allow users to request modifications to photos from AI by selecting an image and tapping “Help me edit.” Users can describe their desired changes via text, and Photos will implement those requests.
Additional features in the November Pixel Feature Drop consist of a power-saving option in Google Maps, which streamlines the app interface to conserve battery, and timely suggestions from the AI-driven Magic Cue, which monitors personal data across applications and accounts. Pixel users who appreciate the Broadway show and movie Wicked can utilize the “Wicked: For Good” theme packs, which include wallpapers, icons, system sounds, and GIFs from the film.
Other updates in the Android 16 November release
This Android 16 update features two essential security fixes identified in the Nov. 3 Android Security Bulletin. Google has also addressed an emergency calling issue that was leading to instability. One of the most noticeable fixes for Android users rectifies a “rainbow-like color pattern” in photos captured with ultrawide and telephoto lenses. The update also corrects an audio-related problem causing system instability and performance delays, a hindrance preventing some applications from launching, and an issue where “webcam mode doesn’t work correctly with connected devices.” Additionally, the update offers “general enhancements for charging and battery performance.”
Which devices qualify for the update?
Google indicates that the November Pixel updates are accessible for the following devices, though certain features are exclusive to Pixel 9 models and newer. Visit Google’s support page for a comprehensive list of eligibility criteria.
– Pixel 7a
– Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a
– Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet
– 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