GrapheneOS halts Pixel 11 support due to missing security features

The developers of GrapheneOS, a privacy-focused Android operating system, have announced they are unable to complete a full port of their software to the Google Pixel 11 series. The primary obstacle is the reported absence of ARM Memory Tagging Extension (MTE) support within the device's software, firmware, and likely its hardware, specifically the Tensor G6 chip.

MTE is a critical hardware-level security feature that helps prevent memory-safety exploits, which account for over 60% of serious Android vulnerabilities. While MTE has been available on Pixel devices since the Pixel 8 series, GrapheneOS developers suggest Google may have removed the feature to reduce costs.

Due to this security regression, the GrapheneOS team is advising users who prioritize high-level privacy and security to avoid purchasing the Pixel 11. They suggest that older models, such as the Pixel 8, 9, or 10, remain more secure options for their operating system. The team is also considering shifting focus toward supporting Motorola hardware in the future.