July Update for Nexus and Pixel Androids [Download]
This week the folks at Google have released July's batch of Factory Images for Nexus and Pixel devices for the month of July. This is not the same sort of update a user would look for if they wanted the newest version of Android complete with a pile of new features. Instead, it's the newest version of Android with Google's latest security features, tweaks, fixes, and the like. This is the behind the scenes update.
The updates here will largely be from 7.1.2 to 7.1.2 – just ever-so-slightly changed down deep in the guts. Not even enough to warrant adding a 3 instead of a 2 in the version number. Basically not even worth the effort unless you're a big fan of security for your smartphone. Don't even worry about it!
SEE TOO: Pixel Android software for non-Pixels
BUT SERIOUSLY: If you're working with your smartphone a lot, flashing all sorts of software and working with code – especially if you're a developer – flash these files. Google updates their security protocol every single month for a reason. These files are free, these updates are free, all you need to spend is a little bit of time to make them go live.
Those new to flashing factory images to Android devices should be aware – they are not meant to be fiddled with. As Google suggests, these files may not be "disassembled, decompiled, reverse engineered, modified or redistributed by you or used in any way except as specifically set forth in the license terms that came with your device." That's serious business, when it comes down to code.
Directions for download and directions for loading this software can be found at Google's Developer page. All system image directories in ZIP file format can be found there. Follow directions to the T – or all will be lost, forever! Save all your content before doing any sort of update – it might be killed without mercy.