Google recently announced that its new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro models will receive seven years of OS and security updates, surpassing even Apple’s update timeline. This move comes in response to feedback from Pixel owners who questioned why Google, as the maker of both the hardware and software, only offered three years of updates while Samsung provided four years.
In light of Google’s extended support, Samsung is reportedly looking to expand the number of years it offers software updates for its upcoming flagship Galaxy S24 line. Currently, Samsung promises four years of OS updates and five years of security updates for the Galaxy S21 series, Galaxy S22 series, and Galaxy S23 line.
Samsung has already established itself as a leader in software updates, with over 1 billion Galaxy devices receiving monthly updates. The company often delivers these updates to its flagship and mid-range models before Google rolls out its monthly update for the Pixel line. However, Google’s recent announcement puts pressure on Samsung to respond in kind.
At Samsung’s developer conference held in San Francisco, Shin-Chul Baik, the Principal Engineer and Technical Program Manager of the Mobile eXperience Security Team, revealed that Samsung has been discussing the possibility of increasing security update support beyond five years. Baik highlighted Samsung’s commitment to delivering timely security patches to over 150 Galaxy devices worldwide.
Samsung currently categorizes its eligible devices for monthly, quarterly, and bi-annual security updates. Some of the devices included in the monthly update category are the Galaxy Z Fold 2 5G, Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G, Galaxy S20 series, Galaxy S21 series, Galaxy Note20 series, and several enterprise models like the Galaxy A52 and Galaxy Xcover5.
While Samsung may not be able to match the seven-year OS update promise made by Google for the Pixel 8 series, there is a possibility that it could match the seven years of security updates that the Pixel 8 line will receive.
In summary, Google’s decision to provide seven years of OS and security updates for the Pixel 8 models has prompted Samsung to consider expanding its software support for the Galaxy S24 line. Samsung has already demonstrated its dedication to delivering timely security patches, and while it may not match Google’s OS update timeline, it could potentially match the Pixel 8 series’ seven-year security update guarantee.
