Each month Google releases security updates and fixes for both Android in general, and its most recent first-party hardware. This month is no exception. OTAs and factory images for Nexus and Pixel devices are now live, as is this month's security bulletin, functional patches for which seem to include a fix for the Pixel 2 XL's proximity sensor issues.
Read MoreMethod discovered to unlock bootloader on 2016 Verizon Pixels
One of the nice things about Google's phones has always been that you could unlock the bootloaders to flash ROMs or official system images. However, Verizon isn't cool with that, so Pixels sold by the carrier don't support bootloader unlocking. Or do they? An XDA poster has discovered a method for unlocking the bootloader on first-gen Verizon Pixels, and it's not even very complicated.
Read More[Deal Alert] Refurb first-gen Pixels available starting at $200 (5") and $210 (5.5") on Woot
The first generation Pixel phone is yesterday's news, but it's still one of the few phones assured of getting a quick update to Android P. The camera is also still one of the best available. Google doesn't sell the phone anymore, but Woot is offering it for an all-time low price. You can have a Pixel for as little as $200.
Read MoreGoogle releases May 2018 OTA and system image files, publishes security bulletin
Every month Google's ritual of regular security updates keeps our Pixel and Nexus devices safe from both real and imaginary electronic boogeymen. These updates usually land sometime in the first week of the month, and like clockwork, here they are. Google has just posted both the May 2018 OTA files and system images for its Pixels and remaining supported Nexus devices, as well as the latest general Android and first-party security bulletins.
Read MoreAndroid Auto Wireless is now enabled for Nexus and Pixel devices
Android Auto's Wireless mode was rumored for months before we got official confirmation of it. JVC and Kenwood introduced a total of 7 Auto head units with Wi-Fi connectivity as an option at this year's CES, but until now even if you just got one of these new units, you couldn't use the mode as your phone wasn't ready for that. Now Google has flipped the switch: wireless mode for Android Auto is enabled on Nexus and Pixel devices.
According to Cody's teardowns, version 3.0 of Auto was nearly ready for the Wireless mode, but it's v3.1 that's required (APK Mirror link) to get things properly working.
Read MoreThe 2016 Pixel phones are no longer available on the Google Store
Google changed tactics in 2016 with the launch of the Pixel and Pixel XL. The Nexus brand was gone, and the phones were more expensive. Still, the Pixel turned out to be a fantastic phone. Google kept it around on the Google Store even after the Pixel 2 launched, but now that's over. The first-gen Pixels are gone.
Read MoreGoogle's April 2018 OTA files and system images are available for download
Google's monthly tradition continues—owners of Pixel and (some) Nexus devices can grab the latest software builds. The updates will roll out automatically in the coming days, but you don't have to wait. The OTA files and system images have both shown up, and there are bulletins documenting the surprisingly extensive list of changes.
Read More[Update: Fix in coming weeks] Android 8.1 update for 2016 Pixel XL causes a potentially dangerous overcurrent charging bug
Generally speaking, updates remove bugs, but in the case of Google's 2016 Pixel XL, a new problem was introduced with the Android 8.1 update this January. When charging in certain circumstances, the OG Pixel XL will (dangerously) attempt to pull up to 40% more current than it has negotiated from the charger, repeatedly entering and leaving a charging state as the charger shuts off due to overcurrent protection. So if you've noticed your Pixel XL recently flashing "charging rapidly" multiple times after being plugged into the stock charger, that's why.
Read MoreThe Best Of AP
[Update: Extended to March 17th] Deal Alert: New Project Fi subscribers can get $80 off any phone
Project Fi is becoming more and more enticing, with the recent additions of Bill Protection (basically an unlimited plan) and extended international coverage. The biggest downside to Fi is still the lack of supported devices, but now the carrier is making that a bit more enticing. If you sign up for Fi from now until February 28, you can get $80 off any phone it sells, in the form of service credit.
Read More[Deal Alert] Refurbished 1st-gen Pixel just $234.99, Pixel XL $254.99 plus $10 gift card on Daily Steals with our exclusive code
Have you been looking for a device to play around with Android P on? Or perhaps you just want a nice phone on the cheap? Daily Steals is currently offering refurbished units of the first-generation Pixel and Pixel XL in both 32GB and 128GB storage variants for incredibly cheap in all colors and both 32GB and 128GB storage variants, as well as free $10 gift cards and an additional discount exclusive to our readers.
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