Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Tech Advisor discusses the hidden expiry dates of Android phones, which occur when manufacturers cease critical security and system updates.
- Knowing your device’s end-of-life timeline is crucial for security, as outdated phones are more vulnerable to cyber threats and malware.
- Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy flagship models now offer 7 years of updates, and you can verify your phone’s support status using endoflife.date or through your phone’s settings. Detailed instructions are provided below.
The “end-of-life” date for an Android phone marks when the manufacturer stops providing security updates, essentially giving the phone an expiry date that users can check.
Many users are unaware of when their device will reach this point, and some devices last longer than others. We detail what this means and the support duration for devices from Samsung, Google, and others.
What does an expiry date mean for an Android phone?
Unlike iPhones, Android devices do not follow a standard update policy. While Google develops the operating system, each manufacturer—such as Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus—determines the update duration for their devices.
There are two primary types of updates:
- Android version updates introduce new features, redesigns, and improvements. Without these updates, some new apps may eventually become incompatible or lack the latest features.
- Security updates are crucial as they address known vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. Without these updates, the device becomes increasingly susceptible to security risks.
The end-of-life date is when a manufacturer stops issuing these updates. Although the device remains functional, it becomes a security risk, especially for online banking, shopping, or accessing sensitive information.
How long do manufacturers support their devices?
Update periods have lengthened in recent years, led by Samsung and Google, with other manufacturers following. This shift partly resulted from the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), effective June 2025.
From June 20, 2025, new smartphone models must receive software updates for at least five years after they are removed from the market.
The table below outlines the current support commitments from major manufacturers:
| Manufacturer | Android version updates | Security updates | Applies to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Pixel | 7 years | 7 years | Pixel 6 and newer |
| Samsung | 7 years | 7 years | Galaxy S24, Z series 2024/2025 and newer |
| Samsung | 4 years | 4 years | Older Galaxy A models |
| OnePlus | 4 years | 5 years | OnePlus 12 and newer |
| Xiaomi | 4 years | 5 years | Premium models (such as Xiaomi 14) |
| Xiaomi | 2–3 years | 3 years | Mid-range and budget |
| Oppo / Realme | 4 years | 6 years | Devices from June 2025 |
| Motorola | 3 years | 4 years | Current Edge series |
How to find out when support will end for your device
To find out your phone’s support status, you need its brand, model name, and number. You can find this information in your phone’s settings under “About phone,” which might list a name like “Samsung Galaxy S26” or “Pixel 8 Pro.”
The most reliable source for end-of-life dates is the website endoflife.date. Under the ‘Devices’ tab, you can find a manufacturer-specific overview. Clicking on a manufacturer shows a table with all models and their respective end-of-support dates.
Alternatively, you can search online for your model along with the terms “end of software support” or “update guarantee.” For instance, search for “Samsung Galaxy S26 end of support” or “Pixel 8 Pro software updates until when.”
As a preliminary check, look at your phone’s settings for the date of the last security patch. On most Android devices, this information is under Settings → About phone → Android version or Security patch level. If this date is older than three to six months, it may indicate the device is no longer supported.
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What should you do when the expiry date is reached?
If your phone no longer receives updates, it doesn’t mean it becomes useless, but caution is advised. Using it for online banking, shopping, or accessing email accounts and password managers is risky due to potential security vulnerabilities.
However, a device without updates can still be used for non-sensitive tasks, such as playing music, watching videos, engaging in simple games, or as a car navigation system.
When purchasing a new phone, prioritize models with long update guarantees. Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices from the S or Z series offer the longest support period among Android devices at seven years, making them a more economical choice over time, despite higher initial costs. If you’re interested in Samsung models, refer to our comprehensive Galaxy buying guide. Our top picks for Google Pixel Phones are also available.
Further reading: Which phones will receive Android 17?
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and adapted from German.
