Pixel & Nexus June Android Oreo Update: What to Know

Google just released its latest monthly June Android Oreo update for Nexus and Pixel devices. And while these monthly updates are all about security, Google added several bug fixes and software improvements at the same time. We’re seeing this more and more lately, which makes these updates more important than ever before.

With the Pixel and Nexus June Android 8.1 Oreo update rolling out as we speak, here’s everything you need to know. We’ll explain what to expect, a few of the changes, and give you links to download and install it today.

Read: What’s New in Android P & What to Expect

This month the Pixel 2 has multiple updates available, so make sure you get the right one. The June Android update is available on all recent Nexus and Pixel devices. Again, older devices like the Nexus 5 and Nexus Player are no longer supported. This is an important update that could affect your device and its performance.

Here in June, we’re seeing new security enhancements, tons of critical security patches, and a few important software bug fixes and improvements. Basically, this is a small but important and meaningful update for all Nexus and Pixel devices.

Supported Devices

• Pixel and Pixel XL
• Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL
• Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P
• Pixel C Tablet

Nexus & Pixel June Android Oreo Update Details

Starting Monday, June 4th Google confirmed the update, and all the update files are available already. Although we’re not seeing it on our devices quite yet. Well, I got it on the Pixel C tablet, but that’s all. Most Nexus and Pixel users will receive this software within the next 24-48 hours. Go ahead and tap “check for updates” in settings, or wait for the rollout to continue throughout the week.

Google refreshed the Android security bulletin, as well as the Nexus/Pixel security bulletin. These links detail all the changes, but we’ll highlight the important ones below. You can get factory images and install it manually too if you’d like.

Typically, these updates have between 20-30 changes mostly in the form of security patches, but occasionally other bugs or glitches get fixed.

That said, we don’t recommend manually installing the June Android 8.1 update. It’s not worth the trouble for such a small update. Instead, just wait for it to roll-out to your device. This is a free and painless software update for all eligible devices and comes right from Google or those with a Pixel on Verizon. It should only take about five minutes to download, install, reboot and finish. It’s not worth the risk to get it a day early or manually flash it.

As you can see, Google improved Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) performance for any and all Android devices. This is another important change to further improve Bluetooth overall. We’re also seeing improved antenna-switching, better WiFi connectivity, fixes to the always on display, and other small changes throughout.

Download Nexus & Pixel June Updates

If you’d like to get this version of Android for your Nexus or Pixel device now, instead of waiting, you can download or flash it from the links below. Or, read more information about each one of these changes.

1. Download Factory Images
2. Grab OTA Update Files
3. Read the Nexus/Pixel Security Bulletin
4. Read the Android June Security Bulletin

When Will the Update Arrive?

We understand users not wanting to wait, especially with some of these bug fixes. And you won’t have to, as we’re expecting the update within the next 24-48 hours, if not earlier. Google is always fast to deliver updates, or you can manually download and install it yourself as we speak. However, we could see upgrades and OTA updates continue throughout the week, and into the weekend at the latest. Just wait for the over-the-air notification to hit your phone.

Some users may choose to manually download the files and update to the June Oreo release themselves. However, we recommend waiting for Google’s OTA update notification to arrive instead. It’s easier that way. I went to Settings > System > System Update > Check for Updates and got it immediately. This pulls the update from Google’s servers to your phone. The entire process took less than 10 minutes. From downloading to installing and rebooting the phone.

Other Details & What’s Next for Nexus/Pixel Owners?

In closing, expect an update on your Nexus or Pixel device in the coming days if you didn’t get it already. Also, this update is only on Nexus and Pixel phones and tablets. Which means those with a Samsung, HTC, Motorola or other devices will have to wait for updates from that specific manufacturer.