With extended software support and security patches lasting 5-6 years and 6-7 years, Apple’s iPhone has set the standard for smartphone longevity over the past 15 years. This has been a compelling reason to choose an iPhone over an Android phone, even when comparing an older iPhone model to a brand new mid-range Android.
However, the tables are turning, as Samsung’s new Galaxy S24 series, following Google’s Pixel 8 series, promises 7 years of OS and security updates. This means you can keep using your expensive Android flagship phone for an extended period of time.
The commitment from Google and Samsung to support their flagship phones for a longer time is a big deal for users. It might be the most significant upgrade that the new Galaxy S24 series offers this year.
Despite this, it’s important to note that while both the Galaxy S24 and Pixel 8 promise 7 years of OS updates, Google’s flagships will receive updates first. The gradual release of updates for Samsung flagships means that Google and Apple flagships are always the first to receive new iOS and Android versions. This usually results in Samsung flagships being updated 2-4 months after the initial release, depending on the region.
While both the Galaxy S24 and Pixel 8 promise the same 7 years of OS updates, the speed of updates may differ. However, this commitment to long-term software support makes the Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24 more valuable than ever before.
If there’s one thing smartphone users love, it’s getting a bargain. That’s why the Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24 are now considered the most valuable Android flagships ever released, whether bought new, used, or refurbished. The promise of extended software support also means that mid-range phones may soon be unable to match the value offered by older Google and Samsung flagships.
Looking ahead, it’s important to acknowledge that while the promise of 7 years of OS updates is exciting, we have yet to see a 5-7-year-old Pixel or Galaxy phone running the latest version of Android smoothly. As such, the future performance of the Galaxy S24, especially the base model with 8GB of RAM, remains uncertain.
With long-term software support now taking center stage in the smartphone industry, Google and Samsung’s commitment to extended updates will likely challenge other phone manufacturers to do better. This has already prompted brands like OnePlus, Motorola, and Xiaomi to adjust their software support offerings.
For more information, you may visit Pixel 8 and Samsung Galaxy S24.
