Troubleshoot Do android phones become unsupported

[carl fish]

Hi, I have a question about Android, do android phones become unsupported after a number of years requiring you to buy a new phone the same way Iphones do, and can you continue to receive updates for your phones operating system without needing to buy a new phone?

 

[tim one]

The problem is the fragmentation.
The distribution of Android versions is not uniform on all devices, because many models are not updated, and then stuck with a Android dated version.
This situation has become increasingly evident, and it has generated many security problems, leaving the older devices exposed to potential vulnerabilities.

I use an old Samsung S3 that doesn't get updates for years now.

 

[Ink]

Short answer, Yes.

Visit your mobile operator and manufacturers' website to see support and updates information for your Android smartphone.

Running an unsupported Android devices, doesn't mean you should upgrade every 1, 2 or 3 years, but the reasons are explained above as to why you might want to.

Not easy to understand, but you can browse here: Android Compatibility Definition Document | Android Open Source Project

Spoiler

Welcome to the Android Compatibility Definition Document (CDD). This document enumerates the requirements that must be met in order for devices to be compatible with the latest version of Android. To be considered compatible with Android, device implementations MUST meet the requirements presented in this Compatibility Definition, including any documents incorporated via reference. For each release of the Android platform, a detailed CDD will be provided.

 

[zzz00m]

I have 3 Android devices that are outdated because the hardware manufacturers refuse to push out Google updates. The most current one I have runs Android 4.4, with no hope of updates from the manufacturer or the carrier. I guess they would rather sell a new device...

If support was an issue, I would consider going with the Google Pixel, since they can provide updates directly to the carriers.

Update: Verizon says its Pixels will get updates at the same time as Google’s

"First and foremost, all operating system and security updates to the Pixel devices will happen in partnership with Google. In other words, when Google releases an update, Verizon phones will receive the same update at the same time (much like iOS updates). Verizon will not stand in the way of any major updates and users will get all updates at the same time as Google.