Older Pixel Phones gets a kernel update along with March update

In the stable March 2025 update, Google formally released the Linux 6.1 kernel for Tensor-powered Pixel phones from the prior generation. This update brings the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold, as well as the Pixel 6, 7, and 8 series devices, up to the same kernel version as the Pixel 9 series. Performance and security will probably improve as a result, and some users are already experiencing the advantages.

In the QPR2 beta, where it was announced that Tensor-powered Pixels will be switching from older kernel versions to 6.1, we previously reported that Google was testing this update. The update is now available to all users with the March stable release.

News of the update was posted by a commenter on the GooglePixel subreddit, who said, “Just noticed my Pixel 7 updated to Kernel 6.1.99 with the March 2025 update.” While several Redditors in the topic commented on a perceived gain in battery life since the update, another Pixel 6a owner in the thread stated that their phone seems “extremely responsive compared to [the] pre-March update.” Although it is difficult to confirm that the new kernel is directly responsible for these developments, the indications are unquestionably encouraging.

This kernel upgrade is part of Google’s broader commitment to long-term software support. Google’s Longevity GRF program plays a crucial role in ensuring that Tensor-powered Pixels meet their update policies by implementing major kernel upgrades when necessary.

If you own a Pixel 6, 7, 8, or another Tensor-powered device, you can check your kernel version by heading to Settings — About phone — Android version and looking under Kernel version.