Regardless of whether they are flagship models or not, Android phones only have a shorter lifespan compared to Apple’s iPhones.
Apple has continuously supported its much older iPhone models with frequent software updates even years after its release. Companies that develop Android phones are making their phones obsolete in just two to three years.
Android Software Updates
Android smartphone updates usually have a lifespan of only two to three years before it becomes obsolete. That’s also including flagship phones, which have a cost reaching the thousand dollar mark.
Phones like the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra and Sony Xperia 1 III can set you back $1000.
The only exception to the two to the three-year rule seems to be from Google, if the rumors are true.
According to TechRadar, the upcoming Pixel 6 won’t be as dated as other major brands in regards to software. Apps would work well and are relatively better to use as a longer-lasting phone for Android users.
Not to mention updates for software are vital for privacy and security and not just the overall design of the user interface. Security patches come with updates and help plug vulnerabilities if there are any.
Without the needed security patches, it would mean that your outdated Android phone might not be safe to use anymore.
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Apple’s Approach to iPhones
Granted, Apple iPhone’s nowadays also cost the same, or even more, than Android flagship phones with only minor changes or upgrades to their already established design. People argue that the price is not just for what kind of upgrade you can get — rather, its stability.
Apple iPhone users get a comfortable five to six years of software support based on statista.
With the upcoming iOS 15 coming soon, it still supports models like the iPhone 6s, and 6s Plus launched in 2015. It would mean that it would still be receiving what even the newest iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max models have in terms of software, or at least security patches.
So, you can even buy iPhones released earlier on and still have a comfortable time knowing that it’s still good in terms of features, updates, and designs.
You won’t need to keep upgrading your phone from time to time, compared to Android phones after three years.
Android Might Have Longer Support
However, companies like Samsung recently announced that it would start providing three years of OS updates and four years of security patches for their phones.
It’s still unclear as to what extent, but it’s a start.
OnePlus also said that they will be doing what Samsung promised, but only for their flagship devices.
Vivo also came forward saying that they will offer three years for both OS and security updates for selected devices. Oppo said it will be a three-year update for security patches from them, but no word for how long OS updates will last.
All of the companies making Android phones pledged to do better in software updates for phones, which means that maybe in time, needing to spend less for consumers to keep buying phones regularly is possible.
However, it’s still unclear whether that would be the case because it would open another discussion regarding how companies would continue earning if people would buy less from continuous support.
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This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Alec G.
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