Google rolls out March Android security update for its Pixel and Nexus devices resolving a total of 21 issues

Following its monthly pattern, **Google** has announced a new security patch for March for its Pixel and Nexus range of devices. [caption id=“attachment_4230065” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] The Google Pixel 2 and the Pixel 2 XL[/caption] Google has provided factory image flashes and full OTA zip files on its developer’s forum for users who wish to flash the new security update. Flashing the factory images will, however, erase all data on the phone. According to a report by GSMArena, over-the-air (OTA) updates should also be rolled out very soon, which should be the safer bet for most users. As far as bug fixes and security updates are concerned, the March patch dated 2018-03-01 resolves a total of 16 issues, while the revised 2018-03-05 patch resolves a total of 21 issues. According to a report 9To5Google, vulnerabilities covered here range from high to critical, with the most severe issues being related to the media framework and the possibility of permitting a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code through what is called a “crafted file.” Google does state that none of these issues have been exploited and that there were no reports of customers being affected by these security issues. The update also comes with three functional updates with two valid for the Pixel 2 and all three valid for the Pixel 2 XL. The improvements from the functional updates include improved screen wake performance while using the fingerprint scanner, improved audio performance when recording video and improved crash reporting. Pixel and Nexus users can find the full downlink link here while the OTA links can be found here.