Tag: Android updates

  • Samsung Galaxy A26 5G Launches Officially in India

    Samsung Galaxy A26 5G Launches Officially in India

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release and Pricing: The Samsung Galaxy A26 5G is officially launched in India, priced at INR 24,999 (~$292) for the base model with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage.

    2. Performance Upgrades: It features an Exynos 1380 chipset, 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of expandable storage, operating on Android 15 with One UI 7.0. Samsung promises 6 years of Android and security updates.

    3. Display Improvements: The device boasts a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED screen with a peak brightness of 1000 nits and a 120 Hz refresh rate, upgraded from the A25’s 6.5-inch display.

    4. Camera Specifications: The camera setup remains unchanged with a 50 MP main camera, 8 MP ultrawide, and a 2 MP macro lens, along with a 13 MP front-facing camera for selfies.

    5. Design Features: The Galaxy A26 5G has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and comes in various colors including Awesome Mint and Awesome Black.

    Following its worldwide introduction at MWC 2025, Samsung has officially released its newest budget smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy A26 5G, in India. This model serves as the direct successor to the A25, which is currently priced at $199.45 on Amazon. There are minor upgrades in specifications compared to the previous version. Nevertheless, it keeps the same robust 5,000 mAh battery that supports 25 W wired charging.

    Performance Features

    Inside, the Galaxy A26 5G is driven by the Exynos 1380 chipset, combined with a Mali-G68 GPU. It comes equipped with 8 GB of RAM and offers 256 GB of storage, which can be expanded up to 2 TB. The device operates on Android 15 with One UI 7.0 right out of the box. Samsung has committed to providing 6 years of Android OS updates (including Android versions 16 through 21) and 6 years of security updates, mirroring the support offered for the Galaxy A36 and A56 models.

    Display and Camera

    Additionally, the Samsung Galaxy A26 5G features a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED screen, an upgrade from the 6.5-inch display of the A25 5G, boasting a peak brightness of 1000 nits and a 120 Hz refresh rate. There are no enhancements in the camera specifications; it retains the 50 MP main camera with OIS. This primary camera is paired with an 8 MP ultrawide and a 2 MP macro lens. For selfies, it includes a 13 MP front-facing camera.

    Design and Availability

    Measuring 7.7 mm (0.3 inches) thick and weighing about 200 grams (0.44 lbs), this 5G smartphone also features IP67 rating for water and dust protection, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and NFC capabilities.

    The Samsung Galaxy A26 5G is offered in colors like Awesome Mint, Awesome Black, Awesome White, and Awesome Peach. The starting price is INR 24,999 (~$292) for the base model with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage, while the 8 GB + 256 GB variant is priced at INR 27,999 (~$327). It’s currently available for purchase on Samsung India’s official site and Flipkart.

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    Samsung Galaxy A26 5G Launches Officially in India

     

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  • Qualcomm and Google Extend Software Support for More Phones

    Qualcomm and Google Extend Software Support for More Phones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm and Google are extending Android software updates to up to eight years for smartphones with Snapdragon 8 and 7-series processors.
    2. The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor enables manufacturers to offer long-term support, enhancing user experience with the latest features and security.
    3. Current Galaxy and Pixel devices are already benefiting from this extended support.
    4. Phone manufacturers are responsible for implementing these extended updates, promoting sustainability and device longevity.
    5. Qualcomm aims to improve user satisfaction by encouraging more OEMs to support longer Android OS updates.

    Qualcomm and Google are teaming up to provide longer software updates for more mobile devices. They announced that smartphones equipped with the new Snapdragon 8 and 7-series processors will benefit from up to eight consecutive years of Android software and security updates, starting from the release year. This means many Android phone owners will not only enjoy the latest Android features but also gain more from their purchase.

    Extended Support for New Devices

    In a blog post, the company explained that Android smartphones using the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor can already offer manufacturers the ability to maintain support for as long as eight years. Now, all new smartphones that utilize the Snapdragon 8 and 7-series chips will also receive these extended updates. Currently, Galaxy and Pixel devices are the ones enjoying this up to eight years of Android OS and security support.

    Manufacturer Responsibility

    This implies that every phone maker using these Snapdragon chips can provide longer support than the usual three to four years. However, it remains the responsibility of each brand to implement these extended updates. This initiative aims to foster sustainability and longevity, helping users avoid the need to upgrade their devices every few years just to access new features and security improvements.

    Chris Patrick, Qualcomm’s Senior VP and GM of mobile handsets, mentioned, “We are elevating the standard with this progress, offering more options for our OEMs and ultimately improving user satisfaction. We look forward to seeing more OEM products that support Android OS longevity in the near future.”

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  • Samsung Galaxy A06 5G Launch: 88% Faster Than 4G, 4 Years Updates

    Samsung Galaxy A06 5G Launch: 88% Faster Than 4G, 4 Years Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Processor Upgrade: The Galaxy A06 5G will feature the MediaTek Dimensity 6300, offering significant performance improvements over the MediaTek Helio G85.

    2. Display and Camera: It is expected to have a 6.7-inch LCD display with a 90 Hz refresh rate, an 8 MP front camera, a 50 MP main camera, and a 5,000 mAh battery.

    3. Charging and Build: The device will support 25W wired charging through USB-C, have an IP54-rated body, and will not support wireless charging.

    4. RAM and Storage Options: The Galaxy A06 5G will offer 4 GB to 6 GB of RAM and 64 GB to 128 GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card.

    5. Software Support: It will receive four major Android updates and four years of security updates, enhancing its longevity in the market.

    The Samsung Galaxy A06 4G was revealed last August, and the 5G version is set to be launched shortly. Insider @Sudhanshu1414 has indicated that the Galaxy A06 5G will be presented “soon” and will closely resemble its 4G version, except for one key aspect: the processor.

    Processor Upgrade

    Samsung is expected to swap the MediaTek Helio G85 for the MediaTek Dimensity 6300. This new chip includes two advanced ARM Cortex-A76 performance cores, which can reach clock speeds of up to 2.4 GHz, paired with six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores. Additionally, it’s built on a 6 nm architecture instead of the previous 12 nm. Our performance tests show that this new chip is about 88.4% quicker than the Helio G85 in single-core operations and 47.5% faster in multi-core tasks. However, as per @Sudhanshu1414’s insights, other specifications have seen little change.

    Display and Camera Features

    The Galaxy A06 5G is rumored to feature a 6.7-inch LCD display with a 90 Hz refresh rate, but it will only have a 720p+ resolution. It will come equipped with an 8 MP front-facing camera, alongside a 50 MP main camera and a 2 MP secondary sensor that is not very useful. The device is expected to house a 5,000 mAh battery, which can be charged through USB-C at speeds of up to 25 watts; however, it will not support wireless charging. Moreover, the smartphone is speculated to include a fingerprint sensor on the power button, an IP54-rated body, and options for 4 GB to 6 GB of RAM along with 64 GB to 128 GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using a microSD card.

    Software Support

    Another notable aspect for its price range is that the Galaxy A06 5G is set to receive four major Android updates and four years of security updates, which is quite impressive.

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  • iQOO 12: 4 Android Updates and 5 Years of Security Patches

    iQOO 12: 4 Android Updates and 5 Years of Security Patches

    iQOO has recently revealed that it will be increasing the support duration for its flagship smartphone from the previous year. The iQOO 12 will receive an extended software support cycle, which includes an additional year of Android updates and security patches. Below are all the specifics.

    Extended Software Support

    The Chinese phone manufacturer has declared that it will prolong the Android and security updates by one year. Originally, support was set to continue until 2028, but now it will extend to 2029. This change is made possible with 4 guaranteed Android OS updates alongside 5 years of security patches. Essentially, the iQOO 12 now matches the iQOO 13 when it comes to extended software support.

    Device Specifications

    In a formal announcement, the company mentioned, “At iQOO, we are focused on providing top-tier performance, smooth experiences, and long-lasting value for our customers. This new policy shows our commitment to keeping your device secure, current, and functioning well for many years ahead.”

    When discussing the smartphone itself, it’s an economical flagship option featuring a tall 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED screen that boasts a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, 3000 nits of maximum brightness, and FHD+ resolution. The device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. Additionally, it has a robust 5,000mAh battery that supports 120W fast charging. Other impressive features include a 50MP triple-camera array, stereo speakers, a glass and aluminum body, an in-display fingerprint scanner, Android 14 OS right out of the box, and configurations offering up to 16GB RAM with 1TB of storage.

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  • Honor Magic 7 Pro Gets Software Support Until 2030

    Honor Magic 7 Pro Gets Software Support Until 2030

    The Honor Magic 7 Pro is now globally available after its debut in China last October. Launched together with the Magic 7 Lite, the Magic 7 Pro boasts a more updated version of Android when compared to its mid-range sibling. Shortly after the launch, Honor provided information regarding the software support for its flagship model.

    Software Support Details

    Honor has announced that the Magic 7 Pro will receive five significant Android OS updates, guaranteeing software support until January 2030. This is an enhancement over the Magic 6 Pro, which is scheduled to receive four major updates, ranging from Android 14 to Android 18. The Magic 7 Pro is anticipated to receive updates up to Android 20, with security patches being available throughout this time frame. While this extends the device’s usability, it still lags behind Google and Samsung’s latest flagship models by one version.

    Specifications of the Magic 7 Pro

    The Magic 7 Pro is equipped with a 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED display, featuring a resolution of 1280 x 2800, a refresh rate that ranges from 1 to 120Hz, and a peak brightness of 1,600 nits, which can peak at 5,000 nits for HDR content. It also includes high-frequency PWM dimming at 4,320Hz to minimize eye strain. Inside, the device runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and comes with 12GB of RAM, which ensures a smooth user experience.

    Powering the device is a 5,270mAh battery, supporting both 100W wired and wireless charging. Its rear camera system includes a 50MP primary camera with a large 1/1.3-inch sensor, a 200MP periscope zoom lens, and a 50MP ultrawide camera. For those who enjoy selfies, a 50MP front camera equipped with a 3D face-scanning sensor is available too.

    Operating System and Features

    Operating on MagicOS 9.0, which is based on Android 15, the Magic 7 Pro brings forth handy features such as Magic Portal, AI-driven Honor Notes, real-time AI translation, and Gemini AI. Furthermore, it carries IP68 and IP69 ratings for both dust and water resistance, providing protection against hot water jets.

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  • Google Pixel 6, 7, and Fold to Receive 5 Major Android Updates

    Google Pixel 6, 7, and Fold to Receive 5 Major Android Updates

    The Google Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and all their variants will come with Android and security updates for a duration of seven years. In contrast, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series, along with the first-generation Pixel Fold, were initially planned to receive just three Android updates and five years of security patches. This means that the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro would stop getting feature updates when Android 16 launches next summer.

    Update Support Changes

    Recently, Google has revised its support page concerning update plans for Pixel devices. It now indicates that the previously mentioned Pixel smartphones will actually receive five operating system updates. This means the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a will keep getting updates through Android 17, while the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, and Pixel Fold will be updated until Android 18 in 2027. However, the Google Pixel Tablet is not included in this update change, so it will only get updates until Android 16 as was initially scheduled.

    Benefits for Users

    With this new update policy, Google is providing users of older Pixel models more time to transition to a newer device without losing out on new Android features. It was already hinted that support would be prolonged when Google launched the beta version of Android 16 for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, even though these two models weren’t expected to receive the final OS version. Even though Android 16 is still six months away from its official release, Pixel users can look forward to fresh features thanks to the upcoming December Feature Drop.

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  • Motorola Enhances Software Update Strategy for Better User Experience

    Motorola Enhances Software Update Strategy for Better User Experience

    Samsung and Google have transformed the software update landscape by introducing seven Android updates. Their faster release of these updates makes them a top choice for users who value extended software support. This shift is likely to negatively impact sales for other Android brands, prompting many to revise their software update policies.

    Motorola’s New Approach

    Motorola, which traditionally offered just three Android updates, is now stepping up its game with a commitment to provide up to five years of Android updates. The Motorola Edge 50 Neo, launched in August, was the first device from Motorola to benefit from this new policy.

    Following the Edge 50 Neo, the company has also introduced the Moto G75 and ThinkPhone 25 to the global market. Both phones come with a commitment to five generations of Android updates. This marks a significant change for Motorola, indicating they are moving in the right direction.

    A Notable Improvement

    Despite there still being a gap between Motorola’s update offerings and those of Samsung and Google, this recent development is a big leap from what Motorola previously provided. For example, the Motorola Razr 50 Ultra, one of the brand’s pricier models, only guarantees three Android updates, while the mid-range Moto G75 promises five.

    Motorola’s update policies have not been strong points for the brand, especially for its high-end devices which were limited to three Android upgrades. The slow pace of software updates in recent years has added to consumer frustration. However, it seems the brand has taken a lesson from past mistakes, now offering better software support on its latest devices. Still, I would feel more at ease choosing a Motorola phone if they could also enhance the speed of their software rollout.

    Fans’ Perspective

    Motorola enthusiasts will likely appreciate the brand’s new commitment to longer software support. Nevertheless, this change does not benefit older Motorola models, which will not receive additional Android upgrades.

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  • Samsung Galaxy A16: 6 Years of Updates for Just €209

    Samsung Galaxy A16: 6 Years of Updates for Just €209

    After a leak in mid-September disclosed key information about the Galaxy A16 5G features, SamInsider has reportedly uncovered the expected official euro prices for two versions of the smartphone. The Galaxy A16 4G, featuring 128 GB of flash storage, is anticipated to retail for €209.90, whereas the Galaxy A16 5G with the same storage capacity is expected to be priced at €239.90.

    Smartphone Variants and Features

    The two new models, successors to the Galaxy A15, will likely mainly vary in their processors, although specifics about the 4G version have not been revealed yet. Previous leaks suggest that Samsung will offer both devices with six major Android updates and six years of security patches, which is quite ambitious for this price range. Depending on the market, the Galaxy A16 5G will either come with a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 or a Samsung Exynos 1330 chip.

    Specifications and Display

    Reports indicate that the device will be available with options of 4 GB to 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB to 256 GB of flash storage. Samsung is believed to have included a 6.7-inch display with a resolution of 2,340 x 1,080, a peak brightness of 800 nits, and a refresh rate of 90 Hz.

    Design and Durability

    The device is expected to have an IP54 certification, indicating that while it is not fully waterproof, it offers some protection against rain and splashes, a step up from the previous model. The design remains largely unchanged, featuring a flat frame, a "key island," a notch, and a broader chin below the display. The exact date for the official unveiling of the Galaxy A16 is still unknown.

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  • Galaxy Devices Eligible for 7 Android Updates: Complete List

    Galaxy Devices Eligible for 7 Android Updates: Complete List

    While many Android brands limit their devices to a maximum of four Android updates, Samsung stands out by offering an impressive seven years of Android and feature updates for its premium models. This sets a new standard for Android device update policies.

    New Update Policy with Galaxy S24 Series

    Samsung rolled out this updated policy with the launch of the Galaxy S24 series earlier this year. Since then, numerous Galaxy devices have benefited from this commitment. Although there hasn’t been any official word on software support for future models, it is expected that all upcoming flagship Galaxy phones and tablets will receive seven generations of Android updates along with security patches for a full seven years.

    Devices Covered Under the Update Policy

    Here’s a list of Samsung Galaxy devices currently included in this new update plan:

    This list is still limited as Samsung has not yet applied the new update policy to older Galaxy models. However, it is likely to expand as the company introduces more high-end smartphones and tablets.

    Current Android Version and Future Updates

    All devices mentioned above come pre-installed with Android 14, meaning their last major Android upgrade will be Android 21. They will continue to receive One UI feature updates and security patches until 2031.

    Samsung is not the only company providing seven years of Android upgrades; Google was the pioneer in this area. However, Samsung is poised to serve more users due to its faster release of flagship devices and its wider market presence.

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  • Google Pixel 8a Software Update Timeline: Duration of Support

    Google Pixel 8a Software Update Timeline: Duration of Support

    The Google Pixel 8a emerges as Google’s most recent budget-friendly smartphone, positioned as a top mid-range option in the current market. While mirroring the design and appeal of its pricier counterparts, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, the Pixel 8a scales down on specifications to present a more economical price point.

    Software Support for the Pixel 8a

    Fortunately, the Google Pixel 8a does not compromise on software support. It aligns with the software update commitment seen in the rest of the Pixel 8 series models. Users can expect a consistent and reliable stream of updates for their Pixel 8a.

    Extensive Software Updates

    Similar to its higher-tier siblings, the Pixel 8a is set to receive a generous seven years of Android updates, security patches, and Pixel Feature Drops. This means users will enjoy the latest Android features and enhancements for an extended period.

    Future of Pixel Phones

    The Pixel 8a debuts with Android 14 pre-installed, akin to the other Pixel 8 series devices introduced last year. Looking ahead, the final OS upgrade slated for all Pixel 8 models is Android 21, scheduled for release in 2031. Moreover, the Pixel series will continue to benefit from seven years of Pixel Feature Drops, ensuring continuous enrichment.

    These extensive software support measures distinguish the Pixel 8a in the mid-range smartphone segment. Notably, competing brands typically offer fewer OS upgrades even for their flagship devices, making Google’s commitment stand out.

    The scenario is less optimistic for older Pixel models. Devices preceding the Pixel 8 series, such as the Pixel 7 series, are limited to only three Android OS updates. Consequently, Android 16 marks the final major OS upgrade for these models, rendering them ineligible for future updates.

    While the Pixel 8 series enjoys prolonged software support, the disparity between newer and older models has left many Pixel users dissatisfied. Google’s decision to limit older models to three updates contrasts sharply with the seven-year commitment for newer devices. Users seeking extended software support are advised to consider upgrading to the latest Pixel models.

    For users with older Pixel devices, a resource is available here to check eligibility for the Android 15 update. The linked article also provides insights into forthcoming Android OS features and enhancements.

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