How long will your phone receive an update and how can you extend its life?

Wondering how long your phone will keep receiving updates? The duration depends on the brand and model, but generally, you can expect updates for 3 to 7 years after purchase. Manufacturers are increasingly extending this period to improve user experience.

Find your brand in the list below and check how long your phone will be supported.

→  iPhone

→ Google Pixel

→ Samsung

→ One Plus

→ Xiaomi

→ Motorola

→ Oppo

→ Nothing Phone

→ Realme

How long will your phone get updates (iPhone and Android)

Brand	Recent models	OS / Android update duration	Security update duration
Apple	iPhone 6s and up iPhone 8 and up	5 to 7 years iOS often beyond 6 years	Same as iOS duration
Google	Pixel 6 & 7 Pixel Fold Pixel 8	5 years (Pixel 6 & 7, Fold) 7 years (Pixel 8)	5 years 7 years
Samsung	Galaxy S21, S23, Z Fold, Z Flip Galaxy S24	4 years (S21 & others) 7 years (S24)	5 years (S21 & others) 7 years (S24)
OnePlus	OnePlus 13 and 13R	More than 4 years	6 years
Xiaomi	Xiaomi 13T, 14	4 years	5 years
Motorola	Edge 50 Ultra	5 years	5 years
Oppo	Reno 13, Reno 13 Pro	5 years	6 years
Nothing	Phone 2, 3a	3 years	4 years
Realme	14 Pro, 14 Pro+	5 years	5 years

 

iPhone longevity

iPhone users enjoy long-lasting support for their Apple devices. The exact duration varies, but iOS stays up-to-date for many years on most models.

• iPhone 6s and newer: about 5 to 7 years of iOS support

• iPhone 8 and newer: extended support, often beyond 6 years

• Refurbished iPhones: variable duration depending on the model, usually 3 to 5 years

Google Pixel longevity

The update duration for Google Pixel Android devices keeps improving over time:

• Pixel 6 and 7: 5 years of Android and security updates

• Pixel Fold: also 5 years of full support

• Pixel 8: extended promise of 7 years of Android and security updates

Google now offers impressive support periods for its recent Pixel devices. Android users can rely on prolonged follow-up for their smartphones.

Samsung Galaxy longevity

Samsung distinguishes its older models from newer ones:

• Galaxy S21, S23, Z Fold, Z Flip: 4 years of Android updates, 5 years of security updates

• Galaxy S24: 7 years of Android and security updates

Samsung is gradually extending support for its Galaxy smartphones. Updates end after several years of use.

OnePlus longevity

OnePlus is increasingly committed to its flagship series:

• OnePlus 13 and 13R: over 4 years of operating system updates

• Security updates: 6 years for these models

Xiaomi longevity

Xiaomi offers solid support for its recent devices:

• Xiaomi 13T and 14: 4 years of Android updates

• Security updates: 5 years for these models

We recommend checking your device settings to know its current version. Xiaomi’s official announcements indicate when new updates are released.

Motorola Edge longevity

Motorola extends the life of its high-end smartphones:

• Edge 50 Ultra lineup: planned 5 years of Android and security updates

Oppo Reno longevity

Oppo is gradually aligning its products with other major brands:

• Reno 13 and Reno 13 Pro: 5 years of operating system updates

• Security updates: 6 years for these models

These devices will benefit from new features for several years. You can install the latest compatible apps throughout this period.

Nothing Phone longevity

Nothing is gradually expanding support for its lineup:

• Phone 2 and 3a: 3 years of Android updates

• Security updates: 4 years for these models

Many users wonder about the support duration. You’ll receive updates during this period defined by Nothing.

Realme longevity

Realme aligns with the premium market with its latest models:

• Realme 14 Pro and 14 Pro+: 5 years of updates for Android and security

This list of Android and iOS models shows that support now extends further. You’ll maintain optimal connectivity on your mobile device for many years.

 

How to maximize your mobile phone’s longevity?

Preserve the battery to extend performance

To ensure a long life for your phone, battery management is key. Here are some practical tips:

• Avoid leaving your device plugged in overnight. Charging between 20% and 80% is ideal to preserve the battery.

• Keep your phone away from excessive heat.

• Lower screen brightness and disable functions like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth when not in use.

• Use the original charger for your device’s safety. Non-official chargers can damage the battery over time.

Adopt good maintenance practices

• Regular care can prevent many problems. Gently clean the screen and ports with a soft cloth to avoid dust buildup. A protective case will help shield your phone from accidental drops.

• Consider replacing your screen protector if it’s damaged. This will prevent scratches from directly affecting your device’s screen.

• Software updates are also crucial for your phone’s performance. They often fix bugs and improve functionality. Pay attention to update notifications and install them promptly.

• A good way to keep your device in shape is to restart it occasionally. This helps refresh memory and can resolve minor performance issues.

Why update your phone?

Data protection

When you apply the latest updates, you strengthen your device’s security. This means your personal information is better protected against hackers trying to access it.

Think about all the data you have on your phone. Your photos, messages, banking details. It’s precious, right? Updates help ensure all of that stays safe from prying eyes.

So, next time your phone notifies you of an available update, think of it as a chance to boost the security of your personal data.

Improved system stability

Now, let’s talk about your phone’s stability. You know those frustrating moments when an app crashes or your screen freezes? System updates are designed to fix those annoying problems.

Each new version of your phone’s operating system comes with fixes. They patch bugs that cause crashes and improve overall performance.

The result? Your phone runs faster and more smoothly. Apps open without issue, and you’ll need to restart your device less often due to freezes. Plus, these updates can also add new features to your phone!

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Frequently asked questions about phone update duration

Is a security update as important as an OS update?

We recommend not overlooking security updates, as they play a crucial role in protecting your personal data. Though less visible than OS updates, these patches close potential gaps and strengthen your device’s defenses against threats.

Can I keep using my phone after updates end?

You can continue using your phone, but keep in mind its performance and features will gradually decline. Without regular updates, your device becomes vulnerable to new security threats. Additionally, it may face compatibility issues with newer apps. So while your phone remains usable, it will lose effectiveness and protection over time.

What should I do if my device is no longer supported by the manufacturer?

We recommend considering the purchase of a new model if your phone no longer receives updates. Choose devices offering extended support, such as the Google Pixel 8 or the Samsung Galaxy S24, guaranteed for 7 years. Check available trade-in offers and review the list of models still eligible for updates.

For example, some refurbished iPhones still benefit from recent iOS versions. Select a brand whose software support policy matches your expectations to get the most from your investment in the long run.