Android 12 is officially out but Pixel phones DO NOT get it now!

The Android 12 update launches officially and most manufacturers release public beta for flagships. All Google Pixel phones will get it on a later date.

Android 12 brings Material You design for Pixel devices. Pixel phones don't get the update now.  (Google)

While the world welcomes Windows 11, Google has quietly released the Android 12 update. But there's a catch and for the first time, the Pixel phones are not getting it before everyone else. Google has released the stable AOSP version of Android 12, which means manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, Motorola and others can start working on the final stable release of Android 12.

Android 12 has been released for the AOSP project, which allows other manufacturers to work on their iterations of Android 12. As a result, several manufacturers like Realme and others have already release public beta versions of the Android 12 for their flagship models. That said, the Android 12 release has been delayed in comparison to the previous versions.

Android 12 is officially released

The delay is also affecting Google's Pixel lineup of phones this year. Pixel phones have usually gotten the new Android update in September but this year, that's not the case. Google says the Pixel phones will get the Android 12 update in the next few weeks. It seems that the Android 12 release might coincide with the Pixel 6 series launch later this month.

Android 12 on Pixel 6 Pro (Google)

Android 12 on Pixel 6 Pro (Google)

Other manufacturers may start delivering the Android 12 update before the end of 2021. Samsung is expected to be the in the forefront for releasing the update for the Galaxy S21 series first, followed by the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Galaxy Z Fold 3 smartphones.

With Android 12, Google has changed the aesthetics to a larger extent this year for the Pixel devices with the Material You design. Pixel owners will see colourful icons, accent colours, and a refreshed interface. Additionally, there are notable boosts to privacy and security when compared to the older models.

However, the Material You design theme is exclusive to Pixel devices and hence, other Android phones may not as much of a bigger visual overhaul. Moreover, other manufacturers will put their own Android skins to offer a customised user experience.