From Samsung to Motorola: The Best & Worst Phone Brands for Software Updates

Software updates are a crucial factor when choosing a new phone. After all, timely updates ensure your device stays secure, receives new features, and maintains optimal performance. But with a plethora of brands in the market, understanding each company's update policy can be a challenge.

This article dissects the software update landscape, revealing which brands prioritize keeping your phone up-to-date.

Samsung: The Consistent Leader

When it comes to software updates, Samsung stands out with its consistent and frequent rollouts. The latest Galaxy S24 series is promised an impressive seven years of security patches and OS upgrades. This means users might see updates up to Android 21 for their S-series devices. But Samsung doesn't stop at flagships; mid-range A-series phones like the Galaxy A55 and A35 are also set to receive four major OS updates and five years of security patches. Even budget-friendly M-series phones, like the Samsung M55, will get four years of software updates and five years of security support.

Google: Speed and Longevity

While Google holds the second spot, it excels in update delivery speed. Pixel 8 and 8 Pro users benefit from seven years of support, encompassing Android OS upgrades, security patches, Feature Drops, and the latest AI advancements. This extended support period, lasting until October 2030, surpasses any previous Pixel phone. Additionally, Pixel 6 and later models, including the Fold, are guaranteed at least five years of updates. For those seeking the newest Android features delivered quickly, Google Pixels are the way to go.

OnePlus: Price Point Determines Support

OnePlus structures its support based on device pricing. The more you spend, the more support you get. For instance, the OnePlus 12 promises four years of major Android updates and five years of security patches. In contrast, the less expensive OnePlus 12R offers three years of Android updates and four years of security support. As for the Nord series, the OnePlus Nord 3 5G leads with three years of software updates and four years of security, while the Nord CE 3 lags with two major Android updates and three years of security.

OPPO: A Mixed Bag

Being sister companies, OPPO adopts an update policy mirroring OnePlus'. High-end models like the Find X7 Ultra and 2023 flagships are promised four upgrades and five years of security patches. The mid-range segment (OPPO F, K, Reno, and Find Lite/Neo series) receives two upgrades and four years of patches, while select budget OPPO A series phones might not receive any upgrades and get just three years of security patches. Although concerning for budget-conscious buyers, OPPO's transparency regarding its update policy is commendable.

Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO: Steady Progress

Xiaomi demonstrates a commitment to improvement, evident in the Xiaomi 14 series' promised four years of major OS updates with an additional year of security patches. The Redmi Note 13 series is expected to receive three years of Android updates and four years of security patches. POCO offers a mixed bag-the Poco X6 Neo gets two years of Android updates and four years of security patches, while the Poco X6 Pro 5G and X6 5G are rumored to receive three years of Android updates and four years of security patches. While Xiaomi's update policies show signs of progress, there's room for improvement, particularly in update delivery timeliness.

Motorola: Lagging Behind

Motorola, known for its clean Android experience, disappoints with its software update policies. Despite covering many devices in its Android 14 update list, top-tier phones like the Moto Edge 30 Ultra and Edge 40 series only get two years of software updates and three years of security patches. Even the budget Moto G series receives just one software update and three years of security support. Motorola needs to prioritize improvement in this area, especially as its upcoming Edge 50 series is enticing, but concerns remain regarding updates.

Choosing the Right Phone: Updates Matter

Understanding a brand's software update policy is vital for informed smartphone purchases. Users prioritizing extended security, future-proof features, and a smooth user experience should prioritize brands like Samsung and Google. Those seeking the latest Android features delivered rapidly might find Google Pixels appealing. However, budget-conscious buyers should carefully research update policies to avoid disappointment.