First update in 7 years. This is still incredible, but Google has set a new standard for software updates with its latest Pixel release. But even months later, some people still don’t seem to understand what this update promise means…
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For a long time, Android smartphones have had a poor commitment to software updates. Some devices will receive some major Android updates, but some devices will be updated months later than expected. Over time, that wild update has been curbed, and for a while the industry standard has settled on major Android updates for two years after launch and security updates for three years after launch. That percentage has been rising for a while, but Google changed things up last year with the launch of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
With its latest flagship product, Google has promised seven years of updates. This is a number that even Apple doesn’t guarantee.
But what does that promise mean? It seems that there are pros and cons in the world.
This may give some people the impression that every feature Google releases over the next nearly 10 years will be available on hardware released today. Some suspect that Google will never deliver on its promises. In the survey we conducted, 9to5Google Opinions were divided among readers earlier this year.
But as it turns out, this is incredibly simple.
Google explains that seven years of updates includes a total of seven years of Android OS updates and security updates, and that Pixel feature drops “may or may not be included” in that schedule.
Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will receive updates for at least seven years after first being available in the Google Store in the US. These updates include security, software, and may also include feature removal.
that’s it. You can take that at face value. For the next seven years, Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will receive all Android OS versions and monthly security updates.They are maybe New features may also be available with these updates, but are not guaranteed. But it’s likely to stay on track for years to come when it comes to keeping your phone up-to-date with apps and safe from abuse.
I think it’s a little strange that there’s a debate about this, especially when what Google is doing here is pretty much the same as what Apple is doing. Apple has long provided secular updates to the iPhone without setting a specific schedule, and even though the device is getting the latest iOS version, new features may overwhelm older models. Exclusions are not uncommon.
Why is it different with Google?
We’re looking forward to the Pixel 8a coming soon, but it’s probably nothing to stress or worry about, as it comes with similar, if not the same, promises. Long-term updates are beneficial for everyone, as long as you don’t expect more than what is promised.
This week’s top stories
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Google reorganizes Android, hardware, and other teams
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