Google Pixel February 2026 security update details and omissions

Google has rolled out its February security update for Pixel devices, but this release has raised eyebrows among owners of older models. Unlike typical updates, this one is purely defensive in nature, addressing just a single vulnerability specific to Pixel—a critical privilege escalation flaw in the VPU driver, identified as CVE-2026-0106.

According to the Pixel Update Bulletin, devices should receive the February 5, 2026 security patch level, which also includes fixes from the broader Android Security Bulletin. However, the list of supported models this time is notably shorter than usual. The BP4A.260205 update applies to the Pixel 7a and newer devices, as well as the Pixel Tablet and first-generation Pixel Fold, accounting for regional builds.

The main surprise is the omission of several popular models. The Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro are once again not mentioned, despite all still being within Google's official support window. This isn't the first such occurrence, and it has reignited speculation about potential changes to the update policy for older Pixels.

Against this backdrop, there's growing discussion that Google is gradually moving away from a strict monthly schedule for previous smartphone generations, shifting instead to quarterly updates. The company hasn't officially confirmed this, but in media comments, it emphasizes that all Pixels will remain "supported" until the end of their stated lifespan through a combination of security patches, Google Play updates, and fixes from the Android Security Bulletin.

For now, one thing is clear: the February 2026 update for Pixel is minimalist, and the absence of Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 models from the public list appears deliberate rather than accidental. Google also notes that updates can roll out in stages with delays depending on region and carrier, so owners of these models might still want to wait and see.