Google's latest March 2025 update package is delivering significant performance improvements to older Pixel devices through both visible feature additions and behind-the-scenes optimizations. The update represents Google's ongoing commitment to supporting its devices long-term, with some users reporting noticeable speed improvements and better battery life after installation.
Kernel Update Breathes New Life Into Older Pixels
Google has quietly updated the Linux kernel version on older Pixel devices as part of the March 2025 security patch. Phones with Tensor G3 chipsets and older, including the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8 series, have been upgraded from Linux kernel version 5.10.x to 6.1.x. This brings them in line with the newer Pixel 9 series, which already shipped with the 6.1.x kernel.
While this may seem like a minor technical change, users are reporting tangible benefits. According to feedback on Reddit, some describe their devices as feeling extremely responsive compared to pre-March update, while others have noticed a good boost in battery life. The kernel update was originally predicted in January 2024 but has only now made its way to stable builds, more than a year later.
Key Features in March 2025 Pixel Update
| Feature | Compatible Devices |
|---|---|
| Linux kernel 6.1.x update | Pixel 6, 7, 8 series |
| AI-powered text scam detection | Pixel 6 and newer |
| Location sharing via Find My Device | All Android devices |
| Satellite messaging | Pixel 9 series (Verizon & T-Mobile) |
| Loss of pulse detection | Pixel Watch 3 |
| Auto bedtime mode | Pixel Watch 2, 3 |
| AI image generation of people | Pixel 9 series |
| Multi-camera streaming | Pixel 9 series |
| Dual-screen video recording | Pixel Fold, Pixel 9 Pro Fold |
| Improved step tracking | All Pixel Watch models |
Enhanced Security Features Across Generations
The March feature drop extends Google's AI-powered protection features to more devices. While the Pixel 9 series already had AI-powered scam detection for phone calls, the latest update brings text message scam detection to devices as old as the Pixel 6. This on-device feature analyzes message patterns commonly associated with scams and provides real-time alerts about suspicious conversations, enhancing user security without requiring the latest hardware.
Location Sharing and Emergency Features
Find My Device has received a significant upgrade, now allowing users to share their real-time location with trusted contacts across any Android device. This feature works similarly to popular third-party location sharing apps but is now integrated directly into Google's ecosystem.
For Pixel 9 owners on Verizon and T-Mobile networks, the update enables satellite messaging capabilities, allowing them to text friends, family, or emergency services even without cellular connectivity. This potentially life-saving feature ensures communication options remain available in remote areas or during network outages.
Wearable Improvements and Health Features
Pixel Watch users haven't been left out of the update cycle. The Pixel Watch 3 is receiving a groundbreaking safety feature called loss of pulse detection, which can automatically contact emergency services if the device detects the wearer has lost their pulse. This feature will begin rolling out at the end of March.
The Pixel Watch 2 inherits the auto bedtime mode previously exclusive to the Watch 3, which automatically detects when users fall asleep, turns off the watch face, and silences notifications to preserve battery life while maintaining sleep tracking functionality. Additionally, step tracking accuracy has been improved across Pixel Watch models by better recognizing variations in walking patterns.
Creative Tools and Camera Enhancements
For Pixel 9 owners, Pixel Studio now supports generating AI images of people from text descriptions. The update also enables multi-camera streaming capabilities, allowing users to connect their Pixel 9 with a GoPro or another Pixel phone to create more professional-looking videos from multiple angles.
The foldable Pixel devices receive specialized improvements, with the original Pixel Fold gaining dual-screen video recording support, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold adding the Add Me feature for comprehensive group photos.
Google's Long-Term Support Strategy
This comprehensive update package demonstrates Google's commitment to its seven-year update promise for newer Pixel devices. By bringing significant improvements to older models through both kernel updates and feature additions, Google is working to extend the useful life of its devices and improve the ownership experience across multiple generations of hardware.
Users can check if they've received the kernel update by opening Settings, tapping About phone > Android version and looking at the number listed under Kernel version. The March 2025 update is rolling out now to eligible Pixel devices.
