# Google’s March 2025 Update Introduces an Important Chip-Level Modification for Older Pixel Devices
Google has launched its **March 2025 Feature Drop** along with a **security patch**, bringing a notable yet nuanced enhancement for older Pixel devices. This update features a **Linux kernel upgrade** for Pixel phones equipped with **Tensor processors**, improving overall performance and battery efficiency.
## **What’s Included in the March 2025 Update?**
The most recent security patch upgrades the **Linux kernel** version for older Pixel devices, specifically the **Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8 series**, to **version 6.1.x**. Prior to this, these models were operating on **kernel version 5.10.x**.
This alteration, which was initially reported in **January 2024**, has now been put into effect, aligning older Pixel models more closely with the **Google Pixel 9 series**, which is already utilizing the **6.1.x kernel version**.
## **Why Is This Kernel Update Significant?**
The Linux kernel serves as the foundation of the **Android operating system**, handling hardware resources and ensuring seamless operations. Updating the kernel can result in:
– **Enhanced Performance:** Users have shared that their devices feel **more responsive** following the update.
– **Boosted Battery Life:** Some Pixel users have experienced **reduced battery drain**, likely due to improvements in the updated kernel version.
– **Extended Software Support:** Google’s **seven-year update commitment** depends on keeping older devices updated with critical system enhancements.
## **User Feedback on the Update**
Pixel users on **Reddit** have exchanged their experiences following the March 2025 update:
– One individual mentioned that their **Pixel 7 feels significantly quicker** than it did previously.
– Another indicated a **marked improvement in battery life**, although it remains uncertain if this is directly associated with the kernel update.
– A few Pixel 8 Pro owners also noticed an **updated baseband version**, which may further help decrease background battery consumption.
## **How to Verify Your Pixel’s Kernel Version**
If you have a Pixel 6, 7, or 8 series device, you can determine if your phone has received the new kernel version by following these steps:
1. Open the **Settings** app.
2. Tap **About phone**.
3. Select **Android version**.
4. Check the **Kernel version** section.
If your device is running a **beta or developer preview build**, it might have already received the kernel update prior to the March 2025 patch.
## **Google’s Pledge to Long-Term Updates**
Google’s **seven-year update policy** aims to maintain the relevance of older Pixel devices by delivering **essential software enhancements**. Updating the Linux kernel is a vital component of this approach, ensuring that older Tensor-powered Pixels continue to provide strong performance over time.
This update also establishes a benchmark for future Pixel updates, indicating that **Google is prepared to backport newer software improvements** to older devices instead of restricting them to the latest models.
## **In Conclusion**
The **March 2025 update** may not showcase eye-catching new features, but the **Linux kernel upgrade** is a considerable behind-the-scenes enhancement. If you own a **Pixel 6, 7, or 8 series device**, you might experience **smoother operation and improved battery life** after applying the update.
With Google’s **long-term support initiative**, Pixel users can look forward to more optimizations like this moving forward, ensuring their devices remain **quick, efficient, and secure** for many years ahead. 🚀
