Google has officially released the December 2025 Pixel Drop, and it is one of the most significant updates in years. Moving away from the traditional yearly cycle, Google has launched Android 16 QPR2 as a “minor release” packed with “major features.”
Whether you are using the cutting-edge Pixel 10 Pro or a reliable Pixel 6, here is everything you need to know about the new AI tools, performance stability, and a surprise mid-month battery fix.
1. Android 16 QPR2: Top New Features in the December Pixel Drop
The core of this month’s update is Android 16 QPR2. Unlike standard security patches, this update fundamentally changes how you interact with your phone.
AI-Powered Notification Summaries
Tired of notification clutter? Pixel now uses Gemini-powered on-device AI to summarize stacks of notifications. It condenses long group chats and multiple alerts into a single, actionable paragraph.
Pinned Chrome Tabs
A long-requested productivity feature is finally here. You can now pin tabs in the Chrome mobile browser, keeping your most important research or frequently visited pages at the very top.
Circle to Search: AI Scam Detection
Pixel’s security gets a boost with AI Scam Detection. Simply Circle to Search a suspicious link or text message, and Google will provide an AI Overview analyzing if it’s a known scam and suggesting next steps.
Urgent Call Alerts (Beta)
Currently in beta for saved contacts, this allows you to flag a call as “Urgent.” The recipient sees a high-priority tag on their screen, ensuring they know it’s more than a casual check-in.
2. Surprise Mid-Month Hotfix: Battery & Touch Issues Resolved
Shortly after the initial Android 16 rollout, users reported minor bugs. Google responded with a targeted 25 MB hotfix (Build BP4A.251205.006.E1).
What the Hotfix Addresses:
- Battery Drain: Fixes an issue where Pixel 8, 9, and 10 models saw faster-than-normal depletion.
- Touch Unresponsiveness: Specifically fixes intermittent touch failures on the Pixel 10 series.
- Data Access: Resolves a bug where users moving from Android 14 to Android 16 couldn’t access offline maps or media.
3. Pixel End of Year Sale 2025: Best Deals on Pixel 9 & 10
If you are looking to upgrade, Google’s End of Year Sale is currently live until December 27 (US) and January 2 (India). Here are the holiday deal prices:
Comparison: Latest Pixel Flagships & Sale Pricing
| Model | Display | Processor | RAM | Sale Price (India) | Sale Price (USA) |
| Pixel 9 | 6.3″ OLED | Tensor G4 | 12GB | ₹58,399 | $499 |
| Pixel 9 Pro XL | 6.8″ Super Actua | Tensor G4 | 16GB | ₹1,09,999 | $819 |
| Pixel 10 Pro | 6.3″ LTPO OLED | Tensor G5 | 16GB | ₹96,190 | $749 |
Where to Buy (Verified Official Links)
- Google Store India: Official Pixel Offers
- Flipkart: Pixel 10 & 9 Exclusive Store
- Amazon India: Check Latest Pixel Pricing
- Best Buy (US): Pixel Holiday Sale
4. How to Manually Check for the December Pixel Update
The update rolls out in phases. If you haven’t received a notification, follow these steps to force a check:
- Open your Settings app.
- Navigate to System > Software updates.
- Tap System update.
- Click Check for update.
Tip: Ensure your device is on Wi-Fi and has at least 50% battery before starting the installation.
Pro Tip: If you are on Verizon or Visible in the US, or located in the UK, your device is likely already eligible for the second “hotfix” update.
