Security updates for Android and iPhones are common, but this time, things are different. This situation affects both Apple and Google in a big way. It could also change how Pixel owners experience Android updates.
Earlier this month, Google released its February security update. The update warned that CVE-2024-53104 was being used in limited attacks. A week later, Apple released its own update. It warned that CVE-2025-24200 was used in a very advanced attack on specific people.
What Are These Vulnerabilities?
Google did not share many details about the Android issue. It only said it was a video management problem. The issue could cause memory problems when handling certain video frames. Android security experts believe it may be one of the USB bugs that forensic tools use to extract data.
Apple provided more details about its issue. The company explained that hackers could disable USB Restricted Mode on a locked device. This mode prevents USB accessories from making a data connection after an hour of inactivity. It helps block forensic tools like GrayKey and Cellebrite, which law enforcement agencies use to extract phone data.
Why This Matters
Forensic hacking has become a big problem for smartphone security. In the past year, Android faced multiple zero-day vulnerabilities. Apple’s iPhones were also found to have new hidden security measures. These measures made devices restart when pulled from storage lockers.
Both Apple and Google quickly released updates to fix these issues. Pixel users got the Android update right away. Apple, as usual, rolled out the fix to all iPhone users at the same time. But other Android brands did not act as fast.
The Problem with Android Updates
Unlike Apple and Google, other Android manufacturers need time to adapt updates for their devices. Samsung, the largest Android brand, did not include this security fix in its February update. The company has also not said when it will release the patch.
This situation highlights a major difference. Pixel and iPhone users got immediate protection. Other Android users must wait.
Android’s Update Problem Is Getting Worse
Google released Android 15 months ago. Pixel users got the update first. Most Samsung devices still don’t have Android 15, except for the Galaxy S25 and a small S24 beta program.
With flagship phones costing between $1,000 and $2,000, waiting weeks or months for updates is a problem. The Android ecosystem may need big changes in how updates roll out.
Android 16 and New Security Features
Android 16 is coming later this year. Security and privacy improvements will again be the main focus.
One major update will block changes to sensitive settings during phone calls. These settings include:
- Allowing apps to install other apps (sideloading)
- Granting accessibility access
Why This Feature Matters
Phone scammers trick people into installing harmful apps. They then ask victims to change settings to give them access. Many users don’t know how to sideload apps, so scammers stay on the line to guide them.
Google is now blocking these changes during calls. This will make it harder for scammers to take control of a victim’s phone.
The Future of Android Security
For the past year, Google has been tightening Android’s security. Samsung has gone even further by restricting what users can do on Galaxy devices. But once again, Pixel users will get Android 16’s security updates first.
The new scam protection feature is already available in Android 16 Beta 2. However, you need a Pixel phone to use it.
The gap between iPhones and Pixels is getting smaller. Other Android brands need to speed up updates or risk falling further behind.
