Summary
- Qualcomm and Google are working together to provide up to 8 years of software updates for Android phones, starting with new Snapdragon chips.
- The extended support is a challenge to Google’s Pixel series, leveling the playing field for long-term software support on Android devices.
- Phone manufacturers have the final say in providing extended updates, but Qualcomm aims to make it easier for them by handling Android OS and kernel upgrades.
There’s one problem that has followed Android around from the beginning: long-term software support. Only in the last few years has it considerably improved, but Google and Qualcomm are working together to make it even better.
A Longer Life For Your Device
Imagine your Android phone staying up-to-date for nearly a decade. That’s the reality Qualcomm and Google are working toward. They’ve announced that future Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 and 7-series chips will support up to eight years of software and security updates, thanks to a new agreement.
“Starting with Android smartphones running on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, Qualcomm Technologies now offers device manufacturers the ability to provide support for up to eight consecutive years of Android software and security updates. Smartphones launching on new Snapdragon 8 and 7-series mobile platforms will also be eligible to receive this extended support.”
Now, “up to eight consecutive years” includes the release year, so you’re looking at seven years of actual Android version upgrades. Still, that’s a massive leap for the vast majority of Android devices on the market.
This move is a direct challenge to Google’s Pixel 8 and 9 series, which also boast seven years of support. For years, Android users have been stuck behind Apple’s long-term software support. Now, the playing could be leveling, but there’s a big catch.
The Catch: Manufacturer Discretion
Qualcomm’s announcement isn’t a guarantee. As is the case with many things on the Android OS level, this is like opening a door. Phone manufacturers still need to actually walk through it. They’re the ones who ultimately decide if your specific phone model will get those extended updates.
“Support for platform software included in this program will be made available to OEMs for eight consecutive years, including both Android OS and kernel upgrades, without requiring significant changes or upgrades to the platform and OEM code on the device.”
Essentially, Qualcomm has made it easier and less expensive for these manufacturers to provide longer support. They’re handling the heavy lifting of Android OS and kernel upgrades, so phone makers don’t have to overhaul their own code.
A few of the first devices that will qualify for this upgraded support cycle include the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, Xiaomi 15 Series, OnePlus 13, and Asus ROG Phone 9. Samsung has already committed to seven years of Android OS updates since the Galaxy S24 series, but it would be a nice bump for the other manufacturers.
Of course, it’s not all good news. Don’t get too excited if you’re rocking an older Snapdragon chip. This extended support is only for future 8 and 7-series chips. And, let’s be honest: most phones won’t last a full eight years of heavy use even if you wanted to use them that long.
However, if you’re serious about minimizing e-waste and keeping your phone running, this could help with that. You’ll have the option to repair and maintain your device for much longer, knowing it will still receive important security patches and software updates–should the manufacturer get on board.
