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Is Pixel Secretly Vulnerable? Why You Can’t Afford to Ignore This Critical August Update!
If your Google Pixel phone has been giving you trouble lately, you are not alone. Many users have been dealing with a frustrating problem where the back button simply stops working. The good news is that Google has released a new software update for August 2025 that fixes this issue and adds critical protection against serious security dangers.
The Annoying Back Button Problem
The trouble for many started in June after an update to the phone’s main software, called Android 16. After that update, the navigation buttons at the bottom of the screen started acting strangely. This happened on many different Pixel phones, including the Pixel 6, 7, 8, and 9 models.
Users reported several frustrating issues:
- The back button would not work when tapped.
- People had to tap the button or swipe the screen many times for it to respond.
- Sometimes, it would take more than 30 seconds for the phone to go back, or it wouldn’t work at all.
This problem made using the phone for simple, everyday tasks very difficult. Google’s official notes for the new update say it provides a “fix for issues with 3-button navigation and gesture navigation in certain conditions”. This update should make your phone’s navigation smooth again.
A Critical Update for Your Security
More importantly, this August update fixes some very serious security flaws. Think of these flaws as unlocked doors on your phone that bad actors could use to get in. Installing the update is like locking those doors to keep your personal information safe.
Here are the key security issues that have been fixed:
A Remote Access Flaw (CVE-2025-48530)
This was the most severe problem. It could allow a hacker to control your phone from a distance without you even touching it or clicking on anything. This type of flaw is considered critical because it doesn’t require you to make a mistake to be taken advantage of.
Known Exploited Flaws (CVE-2025-21479 and CVE-2025-27038)
Two other fixed issues were related to parts made by Qualcomm, a major chipmaker. Security experts found that hackers had already been using these two flaws in a limited and targeted way. One issue could cause memory corruption through the phone’s graphics processor (GPU). The other was a similar memory problem that could happen when viewing graphics in the Chrome browser.
Because these security holes were known to be actively used, updating your phone right away is extremely important for your safety and privacy.
How to Update Your Pixel Phone
Google is sending the update to all eligible Pixel devices, from the Pixel 6 models and newer. It may take a week or so for the update to reach everyone.
To check if the update is ready for you, follow these simple steps:
- Open the Settings app on your phone.
- Scroll down and tap on System.
- Tap on Software updates.
- Tap on System update and then press the Check for updates button.
Your phone will then look for the new software and guide you through the installation. Taking a few minutes to install this August update will fix the annoying back button bug and give you peace of mind that your phone is protected against major security threats.