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How long will your phone get updates? iPhone vs Pixel vs Galaxy

The update promise is the most underrated spec on a phone. Here's what Apple, Google and Samsung actually commit to.

By DGTULSOct 27, 20263 min read

A pile of old mobile phones from different years
Photo: Eirik Solheim / Unsplash
On this page
  1. The short answer
  2. Google Pixel: the clearest promise
  3. Samsung: 7 years on flagships, less on cheaper models
  4. Apple: a minimum on paper, more in practice
  5. How to check your phone
  6. What to do when support ends
  7. Our take

When a phone stops getting security updates, it doesn’t die. It just gets less safe every month. So before you buy, check how long it’ll be supported. A cheaper phone with a short update window can cost you more, because you replace it sooner.

The short answer

Brand What they promise Example
Google Pixel 7 years of OS and security updates for Pixel 8 and newer; 5 years for Pixel 6 and 7 Pixel 11 bought in 2026: covered into 2033
Samsung Galaxy S26 7 Android versions and 7 years of security updates (reported) Updates through 2033
Apple iPhone At least 5 years of security updates from first sale (Apple’s legal minimum) In practice longer: iOS 27 (2026) still runs on the iPhone 11 (2019)

Sources: Google Pixel Help, SamMobile, MacTech on Apple’s UK statement, AppleInsider. Checked on Oct 23, 2026.

Google Pixel: the clearest promise

Google publishes the exact rule: Pixel 8 and later get updates “for 7 years starting from when the device first became available” on the US Google Store. The Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a and 7 get 5 years (Google). That’s why the Pixel 6’s updates end this month: it launched in October 2021. More in Pixel 6 updates end: what to do.

Samsung: 7 years on flagships, less on cheaper models

The Galaxy S26 series launched on One UI 8.5 (Android 16) and is reported to get seven Android upgrades and seven years of security patches, through 2033 (SamMobile). Cheaper Galaxy A models often get a shorter promise, so check the specific model before you buy.

Apple: a minimum on paper, more in practice

Apple doesn’t publish a number in the US. Under UK rules, it states a minimum of five years of security updates from the first supply date (first filed for the iPhone 15 Pro Max). In practice, iPhones usually get major updates for longer: iOS 27 supports every iPhone that ran iOS 26, back to the iPhone 11 and iPhone SE (2nd generation). See Does your iPhone get iOS 27?

How to check your phone

  • iPhone: Settings > General > Software Update.
  • Pixel: Settings > System > Software updates.
  • Galaxy: Settings > Software update.

Install anything waiting. Turn on automatic updates if your phone offers it.

What to do when support ends

  1. Install the last update.
  2. Keep apps updated. App stores keep patching apps for a while.
  3. Be extra careful with links and downloads.
  4. Plan your upgrade within a few months, especially if you bank on your phone.

Our take

For a phone you’ll keep for years, the update promise matters as much as the camera. Today Pixel and Galaxy flagships lead on paper with 7 years, and Apple’s real-world track record is just as long. Be careful with cheap phones that promise only 2–3 years: they’re not really cheaper.

Prices checked on 2026-10-23.

Sources

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