Seven years of updates: why software support beats spec sheets
For years, Android phones were often abandoned after two or three years of updates. In 2026, long support is the norm — and it should change how you shop.
Where things stand in 2026
- Google Pixel 11 series: seven years of OS, security and Pixel Drop updates.
- Samsung Galaxy S26 series: seven years of OS updates and security patches, through 2033.
- Samsung Galaxy A57 and A37: six years of OS and security updates.
- Apple: no fixed number, but a long track record of supporting iPhones for many years.
It started in 2023, when Google promised seven years for the Pixel 8; Samsung matched it with the Galaxy S24 in 2024.
OS upgrades vs security patches
- OS upgrades bring new features and redesigns — like the move to Android 17 this year.
- Security patches fix vulnerabilities, usually monthly or quarterly. They matter even more than new features: an unpatched phone is an easier target.
Why it matters for your wallet
A phone with seven years of support can be used for longer, sold for more and handed down to family. A cheaper phone with only two years of updates may cost more per year of safe use.
| Phone price | Years of updates | Cost per supported year |
|---|---|---|
| $300 | 2 | $150 |
| $550 | 6 | ~$92 |
| $900 | 7 | ~$129 |
These are illustrative numbers — the point is to divide by the years of support, not just compare sticker prices.
How to check
Look up the manufacturer’s official update policy for the exact model before buying. Remember that the clock usually starts at the phone’s launch, not the day you buy it.
Cover photo (cropped): Kyu3a, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
