The November Android security update has two patch levels: November 1 and November 5. The later date covers all applicable fixes in Google’s monthly bulletin, including the kernel and chip components that apply to your phone. A November 1 label covers the earlier group. It does not by itself tell you which additional hardware fixes your particular model needs.
Where the date shows in Settings
On many phones, open Settings, tap About phone, then Android version. Look for Android security update and Google Play system update, which have separate dates. Menu names vary by manufacturer.
To check for a download, look under System and then Software updates. Google’s guidance recommends Wi-Fi and at least 75% battery before updating. Follow the phone’s installation instructions and restart when prompted.
What the November 1 date fixes
The November 1 group covers Android platform components. The most severe Framework flaw could allow an attacker to run code remotely without user interaction on an affected device. Framework is part of the software that apps rely on. Google rates this flaw critical, with severity assessed assuming mitigations are absent or bypassed.
Two System flaws also carry a critical remote-code-execution rating. Some fixes for Wi-Fi, media and telephony components appear in Google’s Play system update list, so check that update separately. The bulletin does not mean every listed flaw affects every phone.
What the November 5 level adds
The later date adds fixes for code that comes from chip makers and from the Linux kernel underneath Android. In Google's summary of the kernel fixes, the worst could let an attacker gain higher access remotely, again with no tap from you. Two of the critical kernel flaws are in Bluetooth.
The same date carries eight critical flaws in MediaTek's modem software, the part that talks to the cellular network. It also fixes a critical flaw in a Qualcomm component. Both chip makers rated their flaws themselves.
A November 5 or newer patch level must include all applicable patches from this bulletin and earlier ones. A November 1 label meets the earlier level’s requirements. Install the updates your manufacturer offers, rather than postponing one while waiting for a different date.
Galaxy phones get it monthly or quarterly
Samsung’s November package lists critical Bluetooth and Qualcomm fixes from the later group. Its current monthly schedule includes the Galaxy S23 through S26 families, including the Galaxy S26 Ultra, along with recent Z Fold and Z Flip models and some enterprise devices. A package notice does not establish that every listed phone has received it.
Many Galaxy A phones, including the Galaxy A37, are on the quarterly list. Their update may arrive on a different timetable, and Samsung warns that some carriers support only quarterly updates for otherwise monthly models. Device-specific fixes can be held for a later release if they are not ready.
If prompt patches matter to you when you buy, a Galaxy from the monthly list is the better pick, since it's in line for every month's package.
The bulletin and your download have different dates
Google published this Android bulletin on November 2. The patch-level date describes the fixes included, rather than the day a download reaches your phone. Google’s Android Help says delivery varies by device, manufacturer and carrier.
After installation, return to Android version in Settings to check the security and Google Play system dates. A download notification alone does not confirm that the new software is active.
