Qualcomm’s Collaboration with Google to Extend Software Support for Smartphones
Flagship smartphones from brands like OnePlus and Xiaomi may soon offer extended software support that rivals Google and Samsung. Qualcomm, the maker of Snapdragon chips, recently announced a partnership with Google to facilitate easier implementation of extended software updates for third-party manufacturers.
According to a blog post from Qualcomm, devices powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and running Android 15 or later will now be capable of receiving up to eight years of Android software and security updates. This move is aimed at promoting device longevity and sustainability, allowing users to hold onto their phones for longer periods without compromising security or missing out on new features.
One major advantage of Qualcomm’s involvement is that manufacturers will now find it easier to update both the Android OS and kernel without the need for significant changes or upgrades to the code over the extended eight-year period. This surpasses Google’s own seven-year promise for recent Pixel phones and Samsung’s similar commitment for select Galaxy devices.
The collaboration between Qualcomm and Google also extends to future chip and phone support. Smartphones launching on new Snapdragon 8 and 7-series mobile platforms will also be eligible for this extended support. Additionally, this partnership will cover the next five generations of Qualcomm chips, indicating that phones powered by Qualcomm’s flagship and mid-range chipsets will continue to offer extended update promises in the foreseeable future.
However, it’s important to note that this collaboration does not guarantee that current phones with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip will automatically extend their software update promise. Manufacturers like OnePlus and Xiaomi will still need to put in the extra effort to implement these extended updates for their devices. While the possibility of an eight-year update guarantee exists, it will ultimately depend on the decisions and policies of individual manufacturers.
In conclusion, Qualcomm’s collaboration with Google represents a significant step towards enhancing software support for smartphones. By making it easier for manufacturers to offer extended updates, users can expect a more sustainable and secure smartphone experience in the years to come.
