At the beginning of the year, Samsung came up with a little surprise: the Galaxy S24 series will receive software updates for a full seven years. Google also provides Android updates to its Pixel 8 models during the same period. However, OnePlus COO Kinder Lui compared this update strategy to moldy bread whose filling is still fresh.
Software updates have always been a big issue in the Android space. While Apple continues to deliver its iPhones with new updates year after year, some Android flagships only receive one major update and two security patches every year. However, this situation has improved significantly in recent years. At least Samsung and Google have now contacted Apple and are making promises Seven years of software updates For the current flagship.
Prolonged software support “misses the point”
Meanwhile, the OnePlus 12 gets four major Android updates as well as five years of security patches. There are only three major updates to the OnePlus 12R. At first glance, OnePlus devices have a clear disadvantage compared to the competition. However, no improvements are currently expected because, according to OnePlus COO Kinder Lui, there will be one Long support “completely defeats the purpose”.
So the hardware will be seven years after the release of the smartphone just old, which will make new updates worthless. To clarify, Louis compares the topic of updates to a sandwich. While the filling (software) will still be fresh after seven years, the bread (hardware) will be moldy long before that. The whole product will therefore hardly be edible or usable.
Hardly anyone uses a smartphone for more than four years
The OnePlus COO also makes other arguments that speak against longer software support. For example, mention is made of batteries, of which only one remains after seven years Low residual capacity If there were. Most users will also replace their smartphone after four years – also to enjoy new functions.
Is long support really unnecessary?
Long gone are the days when smartphones were unusable after almost two years. Modern smartphones now quite functional, to ensure a solid user experience even after years of use. In addition, the performance gap between individual generations has become significantly smaller. Finally, some flagship smartphones of recent years outperform many mid-range and entry-level smartphones. an old man battery pack can be replaced to improve runtime. Accordingly, COO’s arguments seem rather artificial.
OnePlus also has to adapt
At least there’s a business logic that could matter to OnePlus. After all, there is wealth Old smartphones will be spent on equipping them with the latest software. However, only some users will appreciate this effort. Ultimately, OnePlus will have to change its update strategy to avoid falling behind. Also, at least five years of software updates will be available from the end of 2024 EU obligations.
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