Android updates are very important, and it’s good to see that things have gotten better over the last few years. Google started offering longer software support first, and this pushed other brands, like Samsung, to offer more Android OS and security updates. Now, Qualcomm is working on something that should make it easier for brands to provide these updates.
Qualcomm is working to make Android updates easier
Chris Patrick, SVP and General Manager of Handsets at Qualcomm, shared with Android Authority that Qualcomm has been collaborating with Google and Android manufacturers to transform how updates are managed. They are refining the code structure to streamline and simplify updates.
These advancements are expected to help brands maintain their devices with the latest software more efficiently. Qualcomm plans to announce something later this year to further enhance this process.
Upcoming Announcements
Chris Patrick didn’t specify the exact timing or location of this announcement, but it might take place at the Snapdragon Summit 2024 in October. This event is also anticipated to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chip, set to power high-end Android phones such as the Galaxy S25 series.
Improved Update Policies
Previously, brands like Samsung provided only a couple of major Android OS updates for their high-end phones, with even fewer updates for mid-range and low-end devices. Some phones didn’t receive any major updates at all. Samsung then improved by offering three major updates and later announced that high-end and some mid-range devices would get four major updates and five years of security updates.
Last year, Google committed to providing Android OS and security updates to Pixel devices for seven years, marking a significant milestone as even Apple doesn’t promise such extensive support for iPhones and iPads. Following this, Samsung announced it would also deliver seven major updates for its high-end phones and tablets, starting with the Galaxy S24.
