How to Check and Install the November 2026 Android Security Update

Google published the Android Security Bulletin for November 2026 on November 2. It details fixes for more than 200 vulnerabilities. The most severe is a critical remote code execution flaw in the Framework component (CVE-2026-58868). It requires no extra privileges and no user interaction. Devices with a security patch level of 2026-11-05 or later address every issue in the bulletin.

This guide shows how to check your current patch level and install the update when your device maker or carrier makes it available.

What the November 2026 Bulletin Covers

The bulletin splits fixes across two patch levels. The 2026-11-01 level covers Framework, System, and Android Runtime issues, including the critical RCE in Framework and additional critical RCEs in System (CVE-2026-58876 and CVE-2026-58936). The 2026-11-05 level adds kernel and chipset-vendor fixes from Arm, Imagination Technologies, MediaTek, Unisoc, Qualcomm, and Qualcomm closed-source components.

Google states that security patch levels of 2026-11-05 or later address all of these issues. No exploitation in the wild has been reported. Platform protections and Google Play Protect reduce the chance of successful attacks. Google encourages users to update to the latest Android version where possible.

Some fixes, including certain Media Codecs and related modules, can arrive via Google Play system updates without a full manufacturer firmware release.

How to Check Your Current Security Patch Level

Open the Settings app on your phone or tablet. Tap About phone (or About tablet). Then tap Android version. Note the date next to Android security update. This is your security patch level.

Compare it to the bulletin:

• 2026-11-01 or later covers the Framework and System fixes from this bulletin plus earlier ones.
• 2026-11-05 or later covers every applicable issue in the November bulletin and all previous bulletins.

Also check the Google Play system update date on the same screen. Some November fixes arrive through this channel. Menu labels can vary slightly by manufacturer, but the security update date is the key field.

If the date is older than November 2026, your device has not yet received the full set of fixes. Availability depends on your phone maker and carrier. Pixel devices typically receive updates first. Other brands follow their own schedules.

How to Install the Update

When an update is available, you will usually see a notification. Open it and follow the prompts. If you dismissed the notification or your device was offline:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap System, then Software updates (wording may appear as Software update or System update).
3. Check for updates.
4. Download and install if one is listed.
5. Restart when prompted.

Connect to Wi-Fi and charge the battery before starting. After the restart, return to Settings > About phone > Android version and confirm the security update date has advanced.

On Samsung Galaxy devices the path is often Settings > Software update > Download and install. Pixel phones use Settings > System > Software updates. Search Settings for “software update” if the menu differs.

Also check for a Google Play system update under Settings > Security & privacy > System & updates (or search for it). Install any available update and restart if asked.

Tips for Staying Protected

Keep automatic system updates enabled so future patches arrive with less delay. Verify Google Play Protect is on (it is enabled by default on devices with Google Mobile Services). Avoid installing apps from unknown sources.

If your device no longer receives security updates because it has reached the end of its support window, consider replacing it. Older Android versions outside the bulletin’s listed releases (14 through 17) may not receive these specific fixes.

For additional context on Android security features, see our guide to Enhanced Protection mode in Google Messages.

Conclusion

The November 2026 Android Security Bulletin addresses a large number of vulnerabilities, including critical remote code execution issues that require no user interaction. Check your security patch level in Settings today. Install the update as soon as your device maker offers it, aiming for 2026-11-05 or later. Regular updates remain one of the most effective ways to keep an Android device secure.

Sources

• Android Security Bulletin—November 2026, Android Open Source Project (published November 2, 2026)
• Check & update your Android version, Google Android Help