Google Rolls Out Pixel December 2025 Patch Addressing Battery Issues
Google has begun deploying a secondary December 2025 security patch to select Pixel devices following reports of battery drain after the initial Android 16 QPR2 update. The rollout targets models including the Pixel 10 series, Pixel 9 lineup, and older supported devices. Users receiving the update report improved standby time and reduced thermal throttling during extended use.
The patch builds on the December 5 security bulletin with build numbers incremented for stability fixes. It addresses specific complaints of accelerated battery depletion observed in the prior release, particularly on Tensor-powered hardware. Google confirmed the incremental update via its Pixel community forums without detailing exact changelogs beyond performance enhancements.
Affected devices include the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel 8 series. The update weighs approximately 50 megabytes and installs automatically over-the-air for most users. Manual checks are available through system settings for immediate application.
This release follows the broader Android 16 QPR3 beta program introducing features like adjustable flashlight brightness and navigation bar customization. The stable December patch incorporates select beta refinements while prioritizing reported regressions. Google maintains monthly updates for Pixel devices through at least seven years of support.
Battery optimization remains a focus area for Tensor G5-equipped models. The chipset’s efficiency cores handle background tasks more effectively post-patch, according to early user benchmarks. Standby drain reductions of up to 20 percent appear in community-shared data.
The update coincides with ongoing GPU driver improvements for the Pixel 10 series. Imagination Technologies’ latest Vulkan 1.4-compliant drivers enhance gaming performance and graphical fidelity. Combined fixes contribute to smoother overall operation on flagship Pixels.
Google continues quarterly platform releases alongside monthly security maintenance. The next major update, Android 16 QPR3 stable, arrives in March 2026 with additional user-facing changes. Pixel Feature Drops typically accompany these milestones.
Device owners experiencing persistent issues can submit feedback directly through the Pixel support app. Google monitors reports to guide future patches. The rapid response underscores commitment to post-launch refinement for its hardware ecosystem.
This incremental approach allows targeted resolutions without delaying broader security enhancements. Pixel devices receive the longest Android update commitments among manufacturers. The December patch reinforces reliability for daily users.
