Google’s support for old Pixel phones

Bottom line: In praise of Google having fixed what they inadvertently broke in a March update, even though they could’ve ignored the 3.5 year old Pixel 6. (I previously criticized Google, so I thought it appropriate to temper that criticism given that Google ended up saving Pixel 6 cameras.)

Background for whoever’s interested:

A few weeks ago I commented that “Prospective Pixel buyers shouldn’t trust Goggle to not haphazardly ruin their phone when it’s no longer the newest Pixel on the market.” I added “Hopefully Pixel 6’s extended support from Google doesn’t mean extended new bugs that they don’t bother paying attention to.”

My comment had been due the March 2025 Pixel update splotching up all Pixel 6 camera pics (bright streaks across every photo taken in modern lighting).

I take back that criticism, as Google fixed this issue in the May Pixel update. Google didn’t list it as an official fix (just like they didn’t formally acknowledge their having broken the Pixel 6 camera functionality), but based on Pixel 6:Camera flickering issues in Android 15 QPR2 – Google Pixel Community I see the issue’s fixed for other users as well with the May update. Point being, my trust is restored in Google not degrading the functionality of their old phones (*cough* Apple *cough*). While I see myself holding onto the Pixel 6 for a few more years due to it’s amazing performance even after years of use (as well as excellent battery life, which I understand is something that challenges later, Tensor-based Pixels), with such a good phone I expect my next phone to be a Pixel too.