Google has released the September Android Security update for its compatible Nexus and Pixel devices. The latest update fixes as many as 59 issues ranging from moderate to critical. The update is available in two different patch levels and becomes the first major update for devices running on Android 9 Pie. Google has assured that although it has fixed some critical vulnerability issues via the new update, no reports of users being affected by these issues have been reported so far. The list of compatible devices for the September Android Security update include Google Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL, Pixel XL, Pixel C, Nexus 5X, and Nexus 6P.
Google has stated in its latest security bulletin which can be read here that the September Android Security with patch level dated 2018-09-01 addresses 24 issues while another patch level dated 2018-09-05 fixes 35 issues. The update fixes vulnerabilities ranging from high to critical and the most severe of them being a security issue related to the media framework that could enable a remote hacker to execute arbitrary code using a crafted file.
The dedicated bulletin for Google devices notes that the September Android Security update includes 15 security fixes and three functional updates. The update improves software version reporting and audio quality over car speakers for all Pixel devices. In addition, it also improves the battery life on Retail Mode on the Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL devices.
Users can now check for the September Android Security update on their compatible Google Nexus and Pixel devices by heading to Settings> System Updates. Users can also install factory images to flash their devices however it is recommended to take a backup of all the data on your phone before proceeding as it will erase everything.
Alternatively, you can also download the OTA Zip files and install the update on your compatible devices via the unlocked bootloader. The OTA Zip files will be sideloaded on top of the existing software but you need to ensure that your device is running on the latest version of Android.
