Android Phones Expected to Receive Software Updates Through 2030

Long-term software support is crucial for smartphones, particularly for security updates that protect user data. While many phones receive long-term security updates, the same cannot always be said for software upgrades, which often cease before the device's final security patch. This can be a concern for users considering purchasing used phones, as they may miss out on new features in future Android updates.

Newer Android devices typically offer longer support durations. Samsung, a leading smartphone brand, has committed to providing four years of operating system updates and five years of security updates for its devices launched in 2022. Starting in 2024, Samsung extended this support to seven years for more recent models. Specifically, the Galaxy S24, released in early 2024, will be supported through 2030 and beyond. It was initially set for four years of updates, but Samsung confirmed it will receive the full seven. The Galaxy S23, however, has already concluded its software updates, with security updates expected to end in February 2024.

Google's Pixel 8, launched in 2023, is also on track for continued support until 2030. As stated by Google, updates for Pixel devices are available for seven years starting from when they first became available on the Google Store in the U.S. This means all Pixel models with the number 8 or higher will receive updates until at least 2030.

The Nothing Phone 3, set to release in 2025, and Motorola’s new Signature model, debuting in 2026, are both expected to receive software support until 2030. The Nothing Phone 3 will offer five years of operating system support and seven years of security updates, while the Motorola Signature is projected to last until 2033.

However, support from other brands is less certain. OnePlus guarantees four years of software updates and five years for security updates, which does not extend to 2030. Oppo and Xiaomi have less clear communication regarding their software support timelines, with Xiaomi specifically only promising two years of security updates. Therefore, unless one opts for new flagship models, the prospect of lasting support until 2030 from these brands seems unlikely.