What you need to know
Qualcomm has made a significant announcement this week, revealing its partnership with Google to extend software support for devices equipped with the Snapdragon 8 and 7 series chipsets. This collaboration promises up to eight years of updates for eligible smartphones, marking a notable shift in the industry towards enhanced device longevity and sustainability.
- Devices featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, such as the OnePlus 13, Samsung Galaxy S25 series, Xiaomi 15, Honor Magic 7 Pro, and Asus ROG Phone 9, will be among those receiving this extended support.
- In addition, Google’s Pixel 8 series will offer seven years of updates with its newer Tensor chipsets, aligning with Samsung’s commitment to similar software update promises for its latest models.
While this initiative is poised to benefit consumers by allowing them to retain their devices for longer periods, Qualcomm has clarified that the decision to implement these extended updates ultimately lies with the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This means that companies like Samsung and OnePlus will determine which specific devices will qualify for the enhanced support.
Chris Patrick, Qualcomm’s senior vice president and general manager of mobile handsets, emphasized the company’s commitment to improving user experiences by providing more flexibility for OEMs. “We are raising the bar, providing more flexibility for our OEMs and ultimately enhancing user experiences,” he stated.
This development is particularly encouraging for consumers, as it suggests that even mid-range devices equipped with the upcoming 7-series chips could enjoy the same level of support typically reserved for premium models. However, it is worth noting that older devices lacking the latest chipsets will not benefit from this initiative, potentially prompting users to consider upgrading sooner than they might prefer.
Qualcomm has reassured that it will continue to collaborate with OEMs to address software support needs for legacy platforms across its product lines, ensuring that the transition to newer technologies remains as seamless as possible for all users.
