Google has started the rollout of the Pixel Drop September 2025 update, bringing new personalization options, Pixel Buds improvements, and smartwatch navigation features to Pixel users.
Material 3 Expressive
With this update, Pixels gain a more personalized and dynamic look. Users can now apply Live Effects on lock screen wallpapers, including animated shapes and weather-based visuals.
Quick Settings have been redesigned for a smoother and more intuitive layout, while calling screens can now be tailored to individual preferences, allowing a customized Phone by Google experience.
Pixel Buds Enhancements
Later this month, Pixel Buds Pro 2 will receive Adaptive Audio, which automatically adjusts sound based on your environment. Users will also benefit from Loud Noise Protection, helping prevent hearing damage during prolonged listening.
The update adds hands-free controls with Gemini, letting users accept calls or dismiss text messages by nodding or shaking their heads. Conversations remain clear even with background noise or when the TV is on, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
Glanceable Maps on Pixel Watch
Navigation becomes easier for walkers and cyclists. Starting a route on your phone will automatically display directions on your Pixel Watch, allowing users to follow maps directly from their wrist without frequently checking their device. This feature provides a hands-free, seamless navigation experience for unfamiliar areas.
System Fixes and Improvements
The September 2025 update also addresses multiple issues across Pixel devices, improving stability and performance:
- Audio: Fixed call audio quality problems and enhanced overall reliability.
- Battery & Charging: Corrected inconsistencies in the Battery Health display.
- Biometrics: Improved fingerprint recognition and responsiveness.
- Bluetooth: Resolved stability and performance issues.
- Camera: Optimized performance and reliability.
- Display & Graphics: Fixed occasional black screens when transitioning from in-app browsers.
- Framework & System UI: Addressed keyboard malfunctions, power button issues, and secondary language display in Quick Settings. General UI performance was improved.
- Kernel & System: Resolved Pixel launcher crashes and system instability.
- Telephony: Improved network connection stability.
- User Interface: Fixed touch unresponsiveness across multiple apps, resolved crashes related to Quick Tap gestures and navigation, corrected duplication in long screenshots, and improved Quick Settings and Home button functionality.
Availability and Supported Devices
The update has begun rolling out today and will continue in phased deployment over the coming weeks, depending on device and carrier.
Supported devices include:
- Pixel 6 series: 6, 6 Pro, 6a
- Pixel 7 series: 7, 7 Pro, 7a
- Pixel 8 series: 8, 8 Pro, 8a
- Pixel 9 series: 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9a
- Pixel 10 series: 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL
- Tablet: Pixel Tablet
- Foldable: Pixel Fold, Pixel 9 Pro Fold
All devices running Android 16 are eligible for this update, with rollout schedules varying by carrier and model.