In a groundbreaking move, Google has left competitors Samsung and Apple trailing behind with its announcement to offer seven years of full operating system (OS) upgrades for its Pixel devices. This support encompasses not only comprehensive Android updates but also regular feature drops and security updates, making it the most extensive commitment of its kind in the smartphone industry.
But why did Google settle on the seven-year mark? Seang Chau, the Vice President of Devices and Services at Google, revealed the reasoning during an episode of the Made by Google podcast. Contrary to being a random decision, the duration was meticulously calculated based on the lifespan analysis of Google’s first Pixel smartphone, which involved studying active user data.
Chau explained, “When we observed the usage pattern of our original Pixel, which was launched in 2016, we noted a significant active user base that extended for approximately seven years. This insight led us to prioritize providing support for as long as people continue using their devices, making seven years the apt duration.”
To put this into perspective, Samsung promises four years of software updates and five years of security updates for the Galaxy S23. While Apple does not explicitly state the number of years for software and security updates, an estimate can be inferred from the device support timeline of iOS 17. The oldest device on the list, the iPhone XR released in 2018, can expect around five years of support.
Google’s ability to extend support stems from its adoption of custom Tensor processors and improved quality assurance testing. This progression began with the Pixel 6, which witnessed an increase in software and security update coverage from three to five years compared to the Pixel 4 and Pixel 5.
“With the experience we gained from multiple years of Tensor integration, we have become confident in delivering updates for seven years,” Chau stated. He emphasized that the transition to year-round beta programs with quarterly platform releases played a significant role in enabling this commitment. More beta testers provide necessary feedback, ensuring the quality and reliability of updates.
Going forward, Google plans to focus on software-only features as the devices approach the latter end of the seven-year support period. These features will not require additional RAM, storage, or hardware capabilities, aiming to keep Pixel phones running smoothly for an extended duration. This approach instills assurance among users, especially considering the resource-intensive Gemini Nano AI feature that is exclusive to the Pixel 8 Pro.
While Google’s commitment to seven years of support is impressive, it remains uncertain whether older Pixel models will also benefit from extended update commitments. Nevertheless, this announcement sets a new standard in the smartphone industry and reinforces Google’s dedication to customer satisfaction and long-term device performance.
The smartphone industry is highly competitive, with companies striving to attract customers through innovative features and reliable software updates. Google’s announcement of seven years of full operating system upgrades for its Pixel devices is a significant development in the industry. This commitment includes not only comprehensive Android updates but also regular feature drops and security updates, making it the most extensive support of its kind.
The market forecast for the smartphone industry indicates continued growth. According to a report by Statista, the global smartphone market is expected to reach 1.57 billion units shipped in 2022. This increasing demand for smartphones presents a substantial opportunity for companies like Google to establish themselves as leaders in the market by offering long-term support for their devices.
One of the main issues in the smartphone industry is the lack of software support for older devices. Many consumers feel frustrated when their smartphones become outdated and no longer receive the latest updates, leaving them vulnerable to security threats and limiting their access to new features. Google’s decision to provide seven years of support addresses this issue and demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction.
While Samsung promises four years of software updates and five years of security updates for its devices, and Apple’s support timeline suggests around five years of updates for its iPhones, Google’s seven-year commitment sets a new standard. This move not only gives consumers confidence in the longevity of their Pixel devices but also places pressure on other smartphone manufacturers to extend their support periods.
Google’s ability to provide such extensive support is due to its adoption of custom Tensor processors and improved quality assurance testing. The transition to year-round beta programs with quarterly platform releases has also played a crucial role. This approach allows for more beta testers to provide feedback, ensuring the quality and reliability of updates.
As Pixel devices approach the latter end of the seven-year support period, Google plans to focus on software-only features that do not require additional RAM, storage, or hardware capabilities. This approach aims to keep Pixel phones running smoothly for an extended duration, even as technology advances.
It remains to be seen whether older Pixel models will also benefit from extended update commitments. However, Google’s announcement has set a new standard in the industry and reinforces its dedication to customer satisfaction and long-term device performance.
For more information about the smartphone industry and market forecasts, you can visit Statista.