Popular Smartphones Approaching End of Software Support

Many older phone models often go on sale, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. However, buyers must keep in mind that these devices may be nearing the end of their software support, which means they will soon lose access to crucial updates, increasing the risk of security vulnerabilities for their personal data.

Despite the inconvenience of update notifications, these updates are vital for keeping your device secure. Once a phone stops receiving updates, it becomes susceptible to various security threats as vulnerabilities discovered after the last update will not be patched.

Typically, smartphones receive security patches and updates for a limited time. After this support ends, users may continue to use their devices, but they will miss out on security patches and new features. This can lead to performance issues as newer apps may not support outdated operating systems.

Samsung offers different software support durations based on the tier of the device. Flagship models typically receive up to seven years of updates, while mid-range and budget phones receive less. The following Samsung models will reach their end of software support before 2027:

- Samsung Galaxy A14 (launched May 2023) — Android updates end May 2025, security updates end May 2027.

- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G (launched March 2023) — Android updates end March 2027, security updates end May 2027.

- Samsung Galaxy S23 series (launched February 2023) — Android updates end February 2027, security updates end February 2028.

- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 and Z Flip4 (launched August 2022) — Android updates end August 2026, security updates end August 2027.

- Samsung Galaxy A53 5G (launched April 2022) — Android updates ended April 2026, security updates end April 2027.

- Samsung Galaxy S22 series (launched February 2022) — Android updates ended February 2026, security updates end February 2027.

- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G (launched January 2022) — Android updates ended January 2026, security updates end January 2027.

- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 and Z Flip3 (launched August 2021) — Android updates ended August 2025, security updates end August 2026.

Google has improved its software support for its Pixel smartphones, with newer models receiving seven years of updates. However, older models are nearing the end of their support lifespan. The following models will reach their end before 2027:

- Google Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 7 (launched October 2022) — reaches end of life in October 2027.

- Google Pixel 6a (launched July 2022) — reaches end of life in July 2027.

- Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro (launched October 2021) — reaches end of life in October 2026.

For Motorola, most devices typically receive only two to three years of updates, with some recent models meeting a five-year commitment due to new regulations. Here are Motorola models ending support before 2027:

- Moto G (launched December 2024) — reaches end of life in December 2027.

- Moto G Stylus 5G, Motorola Edge 2024 (launched May 2024) — reaches end of life in May 2027.

- Various Moto G models launched in 2024 will reach end of life in early 2027.

Apple generally supports iPhones for five to seven years after their release, without explicit end-of-life dates. Users should be mindful of their devices approaching the five-year mark, as updates will eventually cease. Upcoming iOS 27 will still support models as old as the iPhone 11. Notably:

- iPhone SE (2020), iPhone 11 series likely to conclude updates with iOS 27.

- iPhone 12 and 13 models might receive additional years of support.

For users of nearing-end-of-support phones, it is advisable to keep apps updated, avoid insecure public networks, and be cautious about app installations. Ultimately, upgrading to a newer model is the best means to maintain security and functionality. An outdated smartphone can pose risks, so understanding your device's support status is crucial for data protection.