Recent reports have surfaced regarding Google’s October update for Pixel smartphones, courtesy of a mobile network provider.
As the October Pixel device update rolls out, US carrier Verizon has provided insight into the changes included.
In summary: not much. The firmware, referred to as System Update 26 by Verizon (officially BP3A.251005.004.B1), brings the September 2025 security patch.
Additionally, it resolves a user interface error that “caused a semi-transparent background to materialize after the camera was activated,” and addresses a system crash that occurred “when initiating or ceasing casting via the Media Output Switcher.”
That’s the extent of the updates, which is quite typical. Though there have been exceptions in the last couple of years, Google generally rolls out significant new features quarterly. The intervening months are reserved for straightforward security patches.
As noted on the Google Pixel Reddit community, we likely won’t see any new features for our Pixel devices until the December update—essentially waiting for a true Pixel Drop.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Prepare for (Genshin) Impact
We appreciate Google focusing on bug fixes, ensuring they address pressing issues effectively.
One recent concern is that a popular mobile game, Genshin Impact, is experiencing performance issues on specific Pixel 10 devices (as reported by Android Authority).
Footage reveals that Genshin Impact is glitching on a Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, with texture, control, and screen tearing problems affecting the gameplay experience on these devices.
The root of the issue seems to be linked to the Pixel 10’s adoption of PowerVR GPUs, which replaced the more commonly used ARM Mali GPU from the previous Pixel 9. Notably, Genshin Impact discontinued support for PowerVR GPUs last year.
That said, playing Genshin Impact on Pixel 10 devices is still possible; our experience has shown it runs smoothly on several Pixel 10 phones. Google has also stated, “Genshin Impact has not eliminated GPU support for Pixel 10. We have worked closely with miHoYo over the past year regarding Pixel 10.”
The issue appears to be localized rather than widespread, suggesting it doesn’t necessitate a major fix. Nevertheless, we will continue monitoring this situation.
