Google released the Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow January update for Nexus devices to fix critical security vulnerabilities. Rumors suggest that Android 6.1 build will be launched in June 2016.
Owners of Nexus 5, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, and Nexus Player have started getting the new Android 6.0.1 update for January. Sprint and Verizon have confirmed in their websites that their Nexus 5, 6, and 7 devices have begun receiving the January update as well.
The Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow January update contains patches to exploitable security vulnerabilities. It is part of Google's initiative to deliver monthly security patches to keep users protected from malicious attacks.
Google listed on its Android website the vulnerabilities and issues addressed in the latest Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow January update. The most critical problem fixed was the remote code execution vulnerability in Mediaserver. It can be exploited by hackers to remotely execute code via browsing, MMS, and email.
Other security enhancements to the Android platform include default verification of Verify Apps and prohibition of device rooting tools in Google Play. Users are encouraged to install the latest version of the Android platform to ensure maximum security.
The Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow January update has started to roll out on Nexus devices. However, like any Google updates, it will take some time for the OTA update to arrive on all devices. According to GottaBeMobile, the Nexus rollout could take two weeks to finish.
Users can manually check for updates on their Nexus devices. The software build for Sprint Nexus 5 and Verizon Nexus 6 is MMB29S while Verizon Nexus 7 will get build MMB29O.
For those who cannot wait for an OTA update to arrive, they can try flashing the factory images of the update on their Nexus devices. Users simply need to find the correct factory image for their phones on Google's developer website.
Softpedia reported that other devices aside from Nexus will also get Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow January security update. These devices include Motorola, HTC, Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy Note 5, and BlackBerry PRIV.
There are rumors saying that Google will release an Android 6.1 update in June 2016 at the annual developer's conference. Since Google is committed to bringing frequent monthly updates, users can expect another update to arrive in February.
