Developers Warn Against New Google Pixel 11

Developers from GrapheneOS have warned against purchasing Google's new Pixel 11 smartphones. These devices, which have been available since August 20, 2026, are said to offer fewer security features than their predecessors. In particular, the lack of support for ARM hardware memory tagging (MTE) is criticized, a feature that detects memory errors and security vulnerabilities in code. The GrapheneOS developers had already begun porting their alternative operating system to the new Pixel devices.

During this process, they found that the essential security feature MTE is no longer present. This feature was integrated into earlier Pixel models starting from the Pixel 8 and enhances protection against local exploits as well as remote access to the device. Google's decision to remove MTE from the new Pixel devices is viewed by the developers as an attempt to cut costs. On the platform Mastodon, they expressed that this represents a significant limitation for the security of the devices. GrapheneOS specializes in providing the highest security standards for Android devices, which in certain countries even leads to Pixel smartphones being regarded as a warning signal.

The developers are currently working on finding a solution to the problem. If they are unsuccessful, the porting of GrapheneOS to the Pixel 11 could be jeopardized. Buyers who have already purchased a Pixel 11 and were hoping for a customized version of GrapheneOS may be disappointed. The GrapheneOS developers have also hinted that they might shift their efforts to Motorola smartphones. Motorola has already announced plans to equip more models with the GrapheneOS custom ROM in the future.

This collaboration could be beneficial for the developers, as Motorola grants them access to components and code. In contrast, Google seems to be increasingly restricting cooperation with developers. GrapheneOS has even recommended not to use a Pixel smartphone without their operating system, as it is not secure enough. This warning underscores the concerns regarding the security of the new Pixel models. The security vulnerability arising from the absence of MTE could have far-reaching consequences for users.

MTE is crucial for protection against attacks targeting memory vulnerabilities. The GrapheneOS developers have emphasized that user security should come first and that they will continue to work on solutions. GrapheneOS has established itself in the past as one of the safest alternatives to Android. The developers specialize in integrating security features that go beyond Google's standard offerings. However, the current situation could significantly impact the future of collaboration between GrapheneOS and Google.

The discussion regarding the security features of the new Pixel smartphones is expected to continue as the GrapheneOS developers work on a solution. The uncertainty about the availability of GrapheneOS on the new devices could deter potential buyers. According to GrapheneOS, future development may focus more on Motorola smartphones. The GrapheneOS developers stated on Mastodon on August 30, 2026: "Without MTE, the security of the Pixel 11 is not guaranteed."