Telegram

Missing January Update (Pixel 10 Pro): Is ADB Sideload the only way?

Understanding the Disappearing January Update on Pixel 10 Pro

The Pixel user experience is renowned for its seamless integration of hardware and software, specifically the timely delivery of monthly security patches and feature drops. However, a recurring frustration has surfaced within the community: the disappearance of the January update on devices like the Pixel 10 Pro. We understand the anxiety that accompanies a failed update cycle. You see the notification, perhaps even initiate the download, only to watch it vanish, leaving your device stuck on the December patch. This “phantom update” behavior is not a defect in your specific hardware but rather a complex interplay between Google’s staged rollout servers, carrier validation protocols, and local caching mechanisms.

When a user reports that their device claims to be “up to date” while clearly lagging behind the current security patch level, it indicates a desynchronization between the device’s update client and the Google OTA (Over-The-Air) server. This is particularly common with unlocked devices purchased in regions like Mexico, where carrier certification might differ from the global standard or where specific regional builds (e.g., distinct build numbers for North America vs. Europe) cause confusion in the update logic. The Pixel 10 Pro, being a flagship device, receives rigorous updates, but the automated delivery system is designed to halt if it detects even a minor anomaly, such as a previous root attempt, a modified system partition, or simply a corrupted download cache.

While waiting for the automatic OTA (Over-The-Air) update to resolve itself is the standard advice, it is often ineffective. The window of opportunity to delay an update manually is short, and once the device commits to a “no update available” status, it rarely corrects itself without intervention. Therefore, we must look toward manual methods to restore your device to the January security patch. While many users jump straight to ADB Sideload, it is crucial to understand that this is not the only path, though it is often the most direct for power users.

Is ADB Sideload the Only Way to Recover the Update?

To answer the core question directly: No, ADB Sideload is not the only way to install the missing January update, but it is the most reliable method for a manual installation without wiping your data. However, there are distinct alternatives depending on your technical comfort level and whether you are willing to compromise on data preservation.

The three primary methods to force the January update onto a Pixel 10 Pro are:

  1. Manual ADB Sideload: Installing the OTA zip file directly via a computer. This preserves user data.
  2. Pixel Flasher Tool: A graphical interface wrapper around ADB commands that simplifies the process. This also preserves data.
  3. Factory Image Flashing: Using the Android Flash Tool or command-line scripts to wipe the device and install a fresh system image. This does not preserve data and should be a last resort.

We will analyze each method, but we strongly recommend ADB Sideload or the Pixel Flasher Tool for your specific scenario, as you mentioned you want to avoid messing things up and prefer to keep your data intact.

The Root Cause of the Failure

Before proceeding with any technical fix, it is helpful to understand why the update vanished. On the Pixel 10 Pro, the update mechanism checks the device’s current build number against the target build. If the device was previously enrolled in a beta program (even accidentally), or if the system partition has been modified (even by a Magisk module that was later removed), the OTA server may reject the update request. Additionally, Google utilizes a staged rollout system. The January update might be available for 10% of devices initially. If your device’s specific regional variant (Mexico unlocked) isn’t in the initial batch, the notification might appear erroneously before being retracted.

Method 1: ADB Sideload (The Gold Standard for Manual Updates)

ADB Sideload is the recommended method for users who want to manually install the OTA update without losing their personal data. It involves using the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) tool on a computer to push the update zip file to the device while it is in recovery mode. This method is officially supported by Google and is the safest way to manually patch a Pixel device.

Prerequisites for ADB Sideload

To successfully sideload the January update on your Pixel 10 Pro, you will need:

Step-by-Step Guide to ADB Sideload

We will walk you through the process with precision. Please ensure your battery is charged to at least 60% to prevent shutdowns during the installation.

1. Setting up the Environment

First, install the Android SDK Platform-Tools on your computer. Once installed, open a command prompt (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) and navigate to the folder where you extracted the platform-tools. Verify that ADB is working by connecting your Pixel 10 Pro with USB Debugging enabled (found in Developer Options) and running: adb devices You should see your device serial number followed by “device.” If it says “unauthorized,” check your phone screen for the authorization prompt.

2. Booting into Recovery Mode

Once the connection is established, you need to reboot your Pixel into Recovery Mode. You can do this by typing: adb reboot recovery Alternatively, you can power off the device completely, then hold Power + Volume Down to enter the Bootloader, and use the volume keys to navigate to “Recovery Mode” and select it with the Power button. You will see the Android robot with a red exclamation mark. From here, hold Power and press Volume Up to access the recovery menu.

3. Initiating the Sideload

In the recovery menu, select “Apply update from ADB” using the volume keys and confirm with the power button. The screen will display “Now send the package you want to apply to the device with ‘adb sideload’…”

Return to your computer terminal and run the following command: adb sideload ota-package.zip Replace ota-package.zip with the actual filename of the January update file you downloaded.

4. Monitoring the Process

The terminal will display the progress percentage. The phone screen will also show the installation progress. This process can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes depending on the size of the update and your connection speed. Do not disconnect the cable during this time. Once the process reaches 100%, the terminal will report “Total xfer: 1.00x,” and the device will reboot automatically.

Troubleshooting ADB Sideload Errors

If the process fails, you may see an error like “error: failed to read command.” This usually indicates a faulty USB cable or driver issue. Switch to a different USB port (preferably USB 2.0 on the back of a PC) and a different cable. If the error indicates a “signature verification failure,” you have likely downloaded the wrong file (e.g., a Factory Image instead of an OTA) or the file is corrupted.

Method 2: The Pixel Flasher Tool (A Safer GUI Alternative)

For users who find the command line intimidating, the Pixel Flasher tool offers a robust graphical user interface (GUI) that automates much of the ADB sideload process. This is an excellent alternative if you are worried about typing commands incorrectly.

Why Use Pixel Flasher?

Pixel Flasher is a community-developed script that detects your device, downloads the appropriate OTA zip automatically (if you prefer), and handles the reboot to sideload mode. It provides a safety checklist, ensuring your bootloader status is correct and your device is recognized before proceeding.

The workflow is simple:

  1. Download the Pixel Flasher script (available on GitHub) and ensure you have Python installed if required (some versions are standalone executables).
  2. Connect your Pixel 10 Pro with USB Debugging enabled.
  3. Launch the tool. It will scan for connected devices.
  4. Select the “OTA” mode rather than “Flash All.”
  5. Point the tool to your downloaded January OTA zip file.
  6. Click “Flash OTA.”

The tool will execute the adb reboot recovery commands and the adb sideload command automatically. It provides a log window so you can see exactly what is happening, giving you the confidence that the process is running correctly.

Method 3: Using the Android Flash Tool (The “Nuclear” Option)

If ADB Sideload fails repeatedly, or if your device has system corruption, the Android Flash Tool is the official web-based solution from Google. This method is similar to using the “Pixel Repair Tool” mentioned in your query.

Warning: This method typically involves unlocking the bootloader, which wipes all data on the device. It is essentially a factory reset. If you have not backed up your photos, contacts, and app data, do not proceed with this method until you have done so.

How the Android Flash Tool Works

The tool runs directly in Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. It communicates with your device via the WebUSB API.

  1. Visit the Android Flash Tool website.
  2. Connect your Pixel 10 Pro via USB.
  3. The tool will recognize the device and display available software images.
  4. You select the latest January build for the Pixel 10 Pro.
  5. Crucially, you must select the option that says “Wipe Data” (required for flashing factory images) or “Flash Zip” (if using an OTA image via the tool, though it usually defaults to full images).
  6. The tool will guide you through unlocking the bootloader (which wipes the device), flashing the image, and relocking the bootloader (optional but recommended for security).

This is the most effective way to restore a Pixel to stock, but it is overkill if your only issue is a missing OTA update. Use this only if you suspect deeper system issues.

Obtaining the Correct January OTA Zip File

You cannot perform a manual update without the correct software package. For the Pixel 10 Pro, you must locate the specific OTA zip that matches your current build number.

Identifying Your Current Build

Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Information. Look at the “Build Number.” For example, if you are on the December build SP1A.210812.016.C2, you need the OTA zip that updates specifically from that build to the January build.

Where to Find the OTA File

You can find official OTA zip files on several reliable repositories. While we do not provide direct download links here, searching for “Pixel 10 Pro January OTA full zip” or “Pixel OTA archives” will yield results. Ensure you are downloading from a trusted source to avoid malicious files.

Note: For our community members at Magisk Modules, we often discuss the best sources for stock images required for rooting or patching. Always verify the SHA256 checksum of the downloaded file to ensure integrity.

Common Reasons Why the Update Disappears

To prevent this issue in the future, it is helpful to understand the triggers that cause Google to withhold an update from your specific device.

1. Staged Rollouts

Google limits the availability of updates to manage server load. If your device checks for an update after the initial notification but before your “slot” in the rollout is active, the update may disappear. This is temporary and usually resolves within a week, but manual sideloading bypasses this wait.

2. Carrier Validation

Even unlocked Pixel phones sold in Mexico may have a specific carrier profile or OEM config. If the carrier (e.g., Telcel, AT&T Mexico) has not validated the January update for their network bands, Google may pause the OTA for those devices. Sideloads usually bypass carrier checks, as they are applied directly to the system partition.

3. Root Access or System Modifications

If you have ever rooted your Pixel 10 Pro or installed Magisk modules that modify the system, the OTA mechanism will likely fail. The systemless root method used by Magisk is designed to preserve OTA compatibility, but conflicts can still occur. If you are rooted, sideloading the OTA will fail signature verification. In that case, you must restore the stock boot image, apply the OTA, and then re-root.

4. Corrupted Update Cache

Sometimes, the internal storage partition that holds the downloaded OTA package becomes corrupted. Clearing the Google Play Services cache (Settings > Apps > Google Play Services > Storage > Clear Cache) can sometimes force the device to re-download the update. However, if the update has completely vanished from the server for your device, this won’t help.

Preparation Checklist Before Sideload

Before you attempt to sideload the January update, follow this checklist to ensure a smooth process:

Post-Update Verification

Once you have successfully applied the update via ADB Sideload, your Pixel 10 Pro will reboot. This first boot may take slightly longer than usual as the system optimizes apps. Do not interrupt the boot process.

Checking the Build Number

Go back to Settings > About Phone > Software Information. Verify that the “Build Number” has changed to the January build (e.g., starting with SP1A or the appropriate increment for January). Check the “Android Security Update” field to confirm it reads “January 5, 2025” (or the relevant year).

Checking the OTA Availability

Visit Settings > System > System Update. It should now state that your system is up to date. If you are on the correct build, this is confirmed.

Advanced: What If Sideload Fails with “Error 7” or “Error 21”?

If you encounter specific error codes during the recovery sideload, it usually relates to partition mismatches.

If you are rooted with Magisk, the standard procedure is to Restore Stock Boot Image. You can use the Magisk app to “Uninstall Magisk” (Restore Images) before attempting the OTA sideload. Once the OTA is installed, you can re-root by patching the new boot image.

While there are multiple ways to update a Pixel 10 Pro, ADB Sideload remains the superior choice for a user facing a missing January update. It offers the perfect balance of control, safety, and data preservation. It requires a few minutes of focus but provides the satisfaction of a hands-on update without the risks associated with a full factory wipe.

For users who prefer a visual guide, the Pixel Flasher tool is an excellent companion. However, avoid the factory image method unless your device is currently unusable. By manually pushing the January update, you bypass the staged rollout delays and carrier restrictions, ensuring your Pixel 10 Pro is secure and up to date.

Remember, the Android ecosystem thrives on user agency. While the automatic update system is designed for convenience, it is not infallible. Knowing how to use ADB Sideload empowers you to take control of your device’s software lifecycle, ensuring you never have to wait for a notification that may never arrive. Follow the steps carefully, verify your file checksums, and enjoy the latest features and security patches on your Pixel 10 Pro.

You also may like 〣〣
Explore More
Redirecting in 20 seconds...