Over the years, Google has consistently prioritized enhancing software updates for the Android ecosystem, with the most notable example being the provision of seven years of update support. By making Android smartphone longevity its top priority, the partnership between Google and Qualcomm aims to extend the lifespan of Android devices by increasing their update support to up to 8 years.

Notably, Qualcomm recently announced that, starting with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, the company will extend support for updates on Android devices. This move provides smartphone manufacturers like Samsung with the ability to offer support for up to eight consecutive years of Android software and security patches.

However, it is ultimately up to the device manufacturers to decide whether to adopt the extended support or opt for their own update policy. This new 8-year update support not only facilitates device longevity and sustainability but also ensures the protection of devices during those eight years.

Possible Changes to Samsung’s Software Update Policy for the Galaxy S25 Series

Given Qualcomm’s confirmation that Android smartphones running on the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with Android 15 on-board will support up to 8 years of software and security patches, it is possible that Samsung may revise its software update policy for the current flagship S series, the S25 models. This change could also apply to upcoming Galaxy devices, including the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and other foldable devices.

Currently, the Galaxy S25 series is the only device running Android 15-based One UI 7 version, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is also rumored to be powered by the same chipset.

Eligibility for Extended Support with New Snapdragon 8 and 7 Series

Qualcomm further mentioned that all upcoming smartphones launching with new Snapdragon 8 and 7-series mobile chipsets will also be eligible for this extended support in the future. Therefore, it can be said that Samsung might consider changing its software update policy for its newer Galaxy smartphones in the future due to the increased (up to 8 years) update support.

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