If you use Android daily, your phone's success depends on more than just its camera, battery, or processing power. It also relies heavily on... How many years of system and security updates It will continue to receive [something]. It's a detail that almost never appears prominently on the box, but it indicates the actual lifespan of your phone.
The problem is that each brand is fighting its own battles: Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo and the rest do different policiesThese figures vary depending on the model and year of release. Furthermore, much of this information is hidden in support websites or technical documentation. We're going to gather everything, organize it, and explain it in simple terms so you know how many years of updates your Android device has left and how to check it for your specific model.
Why do Android updates matter so much?
When we talk about support, we're actually referring to two different types of updates: the major versions of Android (Android 14, 15, 16, etc.) and the security patches monthly or quarterly updates that correct bugs and vulnerabilities.
The major Android version updates These are the updates that bring new features, design changes, performance improvements, and in many cases, new APIs for apps. They're what allow your phone to upgrade, for example, from Android 13 to Android 14 or Android 15, and in many brands, they also include a new version of their user interface (One UI, HyperOS, etc.).
On the other hand, there are security updatesThese updates arrive more frequently than major releases. They don't change the interface or add significant features, but they are the ones that patch security holes, fix serious bugs, and stop malware or exploits that appear over time.
Just because your phone stops receiving new versions of Android doesn't mean it becomes unusable overnight. In fact, You can continue using it without any problems as long as it still receives security patches.The real critical point comes when the manufacturer also cuts off security updates: from that moment on, if a serious vulnerability appears, your device is left exposed.
Furthermore, as the years go by, some apps become incompatible with older versions of AndroidErrors begin to appear, unexpected crashes occur, or you simply can't install certain apps. That's why, for many users, the practical lifespan of a mobile phone is reached when it stops receiving major updates and security patches.
How to find out how many years of updates your Android will have with Android Update Tracker
One of the problems in the Android world is that There is no official unified table from all brands with the support years for each model. To fill that gap—and while projects like Project Treble They tried to facilitate updates—Android Update Tracker was born, a website created by a community of enthusiasts that collects and updates support data for hundreds of devices.
Android Update Tracker works like a kind of encyclopedia where you can Search for your mobile phone model and see up to what version of Android it is expected to be updated.It also indicates which version it comes with, what its last major update was, whether it has already received it or if it is only promised.
The website uses a highly visual color code so that, at a glance, the status of each device is clear: dark green for versions already received, light green for those still pending, red for those that will definitely not be received, orange for doubtful ones, and a special green with a mark to indicate the version it was released with or the last one promised.
This tool isn't limited to the big names in the industry. It also includes Lesser-known brands and low-end or older modelsThese are precisely the ones that make it most difficult to find support information. In some cases, the website warns that there may be errors or changes, because the manufacturers themselves modify their plans over time.
Besides helping you know how much life your phone has left, Android Update Tracker is useful if you're thinking about buy a new or refurbished AndroidYou can check, for example, if a mid-range phone released two years ago still has a couple of Android versions ahead of it or if it's about to freeze.
The website also offers interesting global statistics, such as the percentage of listed mobile phones using each version of Android. For example, it has been observed that Many devices are still stuck on Android 11 or earlier.While more modern versions as Android 13 or 14 are gradually being introduced.
How to use Android Update Tracker step by step
To get the most out of Android Update Tracker, simply follow a couple of easy steps and in a minute you'll know. whether your phone will continue to receive Android 15, 16, or if it was left behind..
First, go to the page es.androidupdatetracker.com (The website is also available in Spanish). You'll see a list of the latest updated devices and the versions they've received, but the easiest way is to go directly to the search bar.
At the top right of the page you will find the field “Phone model”There you can enter the specific name of your phone: for example, “Galaxy S24”, “Pixel 7a”, “Redmi Note 13”, or whatever is appropriate. You don't need to write the full name with all the letters; if you enter part of the model, the website will suggest matches.
Upon entering the name, Android Update Tracker will display a list of models that match your searchThis is especially useful for large product families like Samsung or Xiaomi, where the same name is used for several variants (5G, 4G, Pro, Plus, etc.). Choose the exact model you own.
Clicking on it will take you to the device's information page. There you'll see a timeline that marks which versions of Android it has received and which ones are plannedIt also usually includes links to news articles or official statements confirming these updates, along with the date they were released or are expected to arrive.
The website also offers interesting global statistics, such as the percentage of listed mobile phones using each version of Android. For example, it has been observed that Many devices are still stuck on Android 11 or earlier.while more modern versions like Android 13 or 14 are gradually being introduced.
Xiaomi Security Center: Find out when your Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO device will be updated.
Xiaomi is one of the few brands that offers a dedicated transparency portal on security and supportIt's called Xiaomi Security Center and, in addition to warning about vulnerabilities, it includes an "AER Information" section where you can check until what date your model will be updated.
This official page not only indicates the latest version of Android or HyperOS that is planned for your mobilebut also the estimated date until which it will receive security patches. In practice, it clearly tells you when your device will reach "end of life" in terms of official support.
According to this information, Xiaomi has been improving its update policy. For example, high-end phones like The Xiaomi 14 family has support until early 2029, with the possibility of reaching Android 18. However, modest models like the Redmi 13C will remain on Android 15 and will be added to the EOS (End Of Support) list around the middle of 2028.
This portal details both the full system updates such as Android security patches These are programmed for each model. This way, you don't have to rely on rumors or unofficial lists: you're consulting Xiaomi's own source, which is the most reliable source available.
If you're considering upgrading your phone or buying a used one from the brand, it's worth checking out Xiaomi Security Center. Knowing how many years of guaranteed updates you have left is key information for... decide if it's worth paying more for one model or another Or is it better to opt for a more modern one that has a longer lifespan?
Xiaomi's update policy: Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO
In recent years, Xiaomi has made a significant leap in its support commitment. It has established differentiated policies for each product family (Xiaomi “pure”, Redmi Note, Redmi and POCO), with a clearer number of Android and HyperOS updates.
At Xiaomi series (high-end and high-premium)The company offers up to six operating system updates, including Android and HyperOS versions. This means that recent models like the Xiaomi 15 or 15T will be able to continue receiving Android 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21 for years, starting from Android 15.
For Redmi Note series (very popular mid-range)Xiaomi mentions five or six versions of Android along with HyperOS, depending on the model and its technical specifications. In many cases, four system updates are released for models like the Redmi Note 14 Pro and others (Android 15, 16, 17, and 18), which are based on Android 14.
At Redmi basic series (budget range)The commitment is to provide two or three Android/HyperOS updates. Although for years this was the most neglected segment, Xiaomi has extended support periods, so affordable phones like the Redmi 12, Redmi 12 5G, or Redmi 13C typically receive at least two major Android updates since their launch.
As for the POCOThe policy depends on the sub-family. The POCO F and POCO X series get the best deal, with 5 or 6 HyperOS and Android updates (specific specifications show 4 major future versions), while the POCO M and POCO C series are limited to 4 or 5. Models like the POCO F7, F7 Pro, and X7 promise Android 15, 16, 17, and 18, starting from their Android 14 base.
Based on these policies, there are very detailed lists that break it down how many versions of Android does each specific model receive?For example: the Xiaomi 14 and 14 Ultra have four major updates (up to Android 18), the Xiaomi 13 series usually has three, and in Redmi Note and Redmi most range between two and four versions depending on the year and range.
On the other side of the scale are the devices that have reached the end of their useful life. Xiaomi periodically publishes a list of Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones that They will no longer receive security or system updatesWithin that list appear everything from older Mi 1, Mi 2 or Mi 4 models, to relatively recent models such as some Mi 10, Mi 11 Lite, Redmi 9, several generations of Redmi Note and different POCO models such as F1, X3 or M3.
Your Xiaomi being listed as an EOS device doesn't mean you have to throw it away. You can continue using it, but you should be aware that There will be no more new security patches or official improvementsFrom there, if you want to continue updating, your only options are to use custom ROMs created by the community or consider switching to a phone with longer support.
What if your Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO no longer updates?
When your mobile phone officially reaches the end of its support, the main risk is the loss of protection against new threatsCybercriminals continue to find vulnerabilities in Android and in manufacturers' custom interfaces; without patches, your phone remains vulnerable.
Furthermore, over time you will notice problems with compatibility with modern applicationsSome apps will stop working on older versions of Android, others won't allow you to update to newer versions, and sometimes you'll experience random crashes or unexpected closures.
In terms of performance, the phone may continue to run "decently" for a while, but in the long run, apps are optimized for more modern versions of the systemThey consume more resources, and the lack of fluidity is more noticeable in older software.
If you have even a basic understanding of the world of ROMs, you can always install a custom ROM to extend the device's lifespan a little longer. Many Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO models are popular in communities like LineageOSHowever, it's not an official procedure, it involves risks, it may void the warranty (if you still have it), and it requires a certain level of technical skill.
For the average user, the most practical thing is usually to assess whether the time has come to move on to a mobile phone with more years of guaranteed updatesToday there are options in almost every range that promise four, five or even seven years of support, something unthinkable just a few years ago on Android.
How many years of support does Google provide for its Pixel phones?
In the Pixel range, Google has become one of the leading providers of Android support. Pixel 8 and later models They receive no less than 7 years of updates from the date they went on sale in the US Google Store.
Those 7 years include both operating system updates such as security patchesIn addition to extra features delivered via Pixel Drops, this places phones like the Pixel 8, Pixel 8a, Pixel 8 Pro, and the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 series at the forefront of Android support.
In previous generations, support is somewhat shorter: the Pixel 7a, Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, as well as the Pixel Fold, have 5 years of updates since its launchincluding system and security. It remains a very competitive figure compared to most manufacturers.
Older models, such as Pixel 5a, Pixel 5, Pixel 4, 4a, 3, 3a, 2 and the first Pixel, They no longer receive new versions of Android or security patchesGoogle considers them closed in terms of software, although many of them are still usable at a basic level in terms of hardware.
To manually check if you have a pending update on your Pixel, simply go to Settings > System > Software updateThere you will see the status of your device and you can force the search for new versions, although as always, the rollout is gradual and may take weeks.
Google also publishes Pixel-specific security bulletins where it details which vulnerabilities are fixed in each patch. It's a transparent way of See the work that goes into each monthly update and to check that your device is still covered.
Samsung Galaxy: Years of updates depending on model and range
Samsung has gone from being criticized for its delays to becoming one of the strongest Android brands in terms of support. It currently boasts... Up to 7 years of updates for many of their latest Galaxy devices, something especially visible in the high-end ranges.
With the arrival of the Galaxy S24, the company announced that These models would have 7 years of supportThis includes both One UI/Android versions and security patches. This policy has been extended to a large portion of the new high-end devices and some prominent models.
However, not all Galaxy devices are in the same situation. Previous generations coexist with 4 years of major updates and 5 years of securityAnd mid-range or entry-level models with 2 or 3 years of versions. That's why it's a bit confusing to know how many years each specific Galaxy model will last.
In the Galaxy S series, the most powerful, recent models enjoy the longest battery life. The same is true for foldable phones. Z series (Fold and Flip)These are treated as high-end models for support purposes. In the more affordable A and M series, the warranty period is lower, although Samsung has also increased its commitment to newer models.
If we're talking about tablets, the range Galaxy Tab S Series It typically follows a similar policy to high-end phones, with several years of Android versions and a long security cycle. In cheaper models, updates are less frequent.
It's worth remembering that when Samsung talks about 7, 6, or 4 years of support, This doesn't necessarily mean that they will release the same number of One UI versions.It is possible that in one year there are two major leaps in One UI (for example, One UI 7 and One UI 8) or that some intermediate revision (such as One UI 8.5) is not based on a new version of Android, but maintains the same version but adds features.
Why it's important to update your Samsung Galaxy
At Samsung, as with other brands, many people hesitate about whether or not to update when a new version is released. The truth is, the company's policy is designed so that Your Galaxy will always have the latest software available.both in terms of function and safety.
Each One UI and Android update brings interface improvements, new apps, camera features, AI, productivity enhancements, and more. But above all, it integrates security patches that close vulnerabilitiesLeaving a Galaxy device unupdated can be costly if a serious flaw appears that allows for attacks or data theft.
It's true that some updates can cause problems, but Samsung usually reacts quickly with patches that fix bugs. Therefore, except in very rare cases, it's advisable to... Keep your Galaxy up to date and not postpone updates indefinitely.
Another detail to keep in mind is that There is no official turning back.Once you update to a major new version, downgrading is not supported by Samsung. There are unofficial methods to try to revert, but they are risky, can cause serious problems, and in many cases void your warranty.
Updating a Galaxy is very simple: just go to Settings, scroll down to “Software update” and click on “Download and install”The phone will check for any pending updates, whether it's a major One UI/Android version or a simple security patch. If there are any, all you need to do is ensure you have sufficient battery power, have backed up your data, and follow the on-screen instructions.
How many years of updates do other brands promise: OPPO, Vivo, and generic Android
Beyond the giants, other manufacturers have also been tightening their support commitments. In the case of OPPOThe brand has committed to providing four years of Android updates for certain high-end models launched from 2023 onwards, and three years for the rest of the range.
In terms of security, some of those high-end OPPO phones receive up to five years of patchesThis places the brand in an upper-middle position within the Android ecosystem, although still below the ceiling set by Google and Samsung in their latest flagship devices.
En LivingThe strategy is similar: the top-of-the-range models in the Vivo X series come with three years of Android updates and three years of security updates, while The rest of the devices are stuck with two years of major versionsIt is a somewhat conservative policy, but clearer than that of other minor players.
Looking at the global picture, in Android we find everything: from phones with one or no guaranteed updates...up to 7 years for the Pixel 8 or the latest Galaxy S. Most users, however, get between two and three years of major updates in the mid-range.
This contrasts with the situation in the iOS ecosystem, where all recent iPhones They typically receive around six years of major updatesThe fragmentation of manufacturers and layers in Android makes support much more uneven and depends entirely on the model you choose.
How to find out how many years of updates your Android phone has left
When it comes down to it, to know how many years of updates your phone has left, the ideal thing to do is combine official information from the manufacturer using tools like Android Update TrackerBetween both sources you can get a fairly accurate idea.
First, check the official documentation: support pages, security centers (such as the Xiaomi Security Center), press releases regarding update policies and lists of devices that will receive specific versions of Android. Many brands publish, for example, which models will be updated to Android 14 or 15.
Next, use Android Update Tracker to check where your device is in the update process. version schedule 12 to 18 which the site usually handles. There you'll see if your phone has already received all the promised updates or if it still has some ahead.
Keep in mind that what is usually detailed are the Android versions, not always the exact years of security patchesGenerally, patches are a little longer than full versions, but it varies depending on the manufacturer.
If you're thinking of buying a mobile phone now, make sure it has at least [number] years of battery life. three or four years of big versions and, if possible, some additional security and support for modular upgradesMobile phones with 5, 6 or 7 years of support They are a much more solid bet for the future, even if the initial price is somewhat higher.
With all this in mind, look beyond the camera and processor specs and focus on the years of updates that each brand guarantees It has become essential. Choosing the right detail can make the difference between a phone that will reliably serve you for many years and one that becomes outdated and unprotected far too soon.
