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Google and Qualcomm Partner to Extend Android OS Updates to Eight Years

Google and Qualcomm Partner to Extend Android OS Updates to Eight Years
Last Updated: 17 hour ago

Great news for smartphone users! Your phones will now receive new features and security updates for years to come. Google and Qualcomm have partnered to ensure Android smartphones receive operating system (OS) updates for eight years. This initiative benefits users who want to keep their phones secure and up-to-date for an extended period.

Google and Qualcomm's New Partnership

Google, considering the needs of mobile users, has finalized this significant deal with Qualcomm. The partnership aims to ensure that smartphones powered by Snapdragon chipsets receive software updates for an extended duration.

Qualcomm's Major Announcement

Qualcomm recently announced that Android smartphones will receive longer support. Currently, this feature applies only to smartphones with the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. This means smartphones using this chipset are guaranteed eight years of OS updates. However, the final decision rests with the mobile manufacturers.

Will Mid-Range Smartphones Also Benefit?

Until now, high-end chipsets like the Snapdragon 8 Elite were primarily found in expensive flagship smartphones. However, reports suggest Qualcomm plans to include the Snapdragon 7 series chipsets in this program soon. This could extend the benefits of this updated system to mid-range smartphone users.

Which Users Will Not Benefit?

If your smartphone has already been launched and uses a chipset older than the Snapdragon 8 Elite, you won't benefit from this new update program. Only devices launched in the future with this chipset will receive the extended support.

Why are OS Updates Important?

Enhanced Security: Regular updates protect your phone from cyberattacks and viruses.
New Features: The latest OS updates provide access to new features and technologies.

Extended Smartphone Lifespan: Provides a refreshed experience for older phones.
WhatsApp and Other App Support: Apps often stop supporting older OS versions, but updates resolve this issue.

Smartphones Will No Longer Expire Quickly

Android companies typically promise OS updates for three years, after which the handset gradually becomes obsolete. Many apps, such as WhatsApp, cease functioning on older OS versions. However, this initiative from Google and Qualcomm will more than double the lifespan of smartphones.

This partnership between Google and Qualcomm could be a game-changer for Android users. You will no longer need to frequently purchase new phones, as your current device will remain up-to-date for eight years. This will not only benefit users but also reduce e-waste.

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