This would really be an extraordinary move from Google: the company apparently plans to provide some of its Pixel smartphones with a significant update. According to reports, the update to the Linux kernel 6.1 will result in a significant increase in the performance of the phones.
Google update: New heart for Pixel phones
A well-known leaker assumes that Google is involved in something as big as… rare update for some Pixel phones is working. According to insider Mishaal Rahman, a switch to the Linux kernel 6.1 is being worked on. This affects both current models with the Tensor G1, G2 and G3 as well as the upcoming Pixel 9 series, which will probably already be equipped with the Tensor G4 (source: Mishaal Rahman bei Twitter/X).
The current Pixel models currently run on Linux 5.10 and 5.15. The jump to 6.1 could significant performance improvements and mean an extended support period. The new kernel version is expected to be distributed alongside a new operating system version of Android.
However, so far Google has neither the exact content of the update nor a schedule officially confirmed. The fact that an update is even being worked on came to light through comments from Google engineers on the Android Open Source Project (AOPS) website.
For Pixel owners, the update means one thing above all: more performance and reliability for their cell phone. The kernel decides as Heart of the operating system about the functionality of smartphones.
In the video: This is what we think of the Pixel 8 (Pro).
Kernel update probably also for Pixel 6
Google introduced its own Tensor chip with the Pixel 6 in 2021. Also the Pixel 6a and all subsequent Pixel phones since then rely on a Tensor SoC. With the Linux kernel 6.1, Google could also breathe new life into older cell phones.