# Qualcomm Prolongs Android Update Support to Eight Years with Snapdragon 8 Elite
## A Significant Advancement Towards Durable Android Devices
Qualcomm and Google have revealed a noteworthy initiative to prolong software update support for Android devices. With the introduction of the **Snapdragon 8 Elite** chipset, Qualcomm commits to delivering up to **eight years of software updates** for devices utilizing its latest processors. Supported by Google, this initiative aims to enhance the lifespan of Android smartphones, guaranteeing that users receive security patches and system updates for a considerably extended timeframe compared to before.
## Insights into Qualcomm’s Extended Support
This extended support is specifically designated for **Android devices operating on Qualcomm’s latest chipsets**, commencing with the **Snapdragon 8 Elite**. The policy will later broaden to encompass the **Snapdragon 8 and Snapdragon 7-series chips**, ensuring that both flagship and near-flagship devices enjoy prolonged update cycles.
According to **Seang Chau**, Google’s Android Platform Manager, this partnership will empower **OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers)** to deliver more efficient software and security updates. Consequently, users can look forward to a more **secure and enduring Android experience**.
Nevertheless, there are certain **limitations** associated with this initiative:
– The extended support is **exclusively available for premium Qualcomm chips**. Budget devices employing lower-spec Qualcomm processors may not receive equivalent update commitments.
– While Qualcomm is furnishing the needed support, **OEMs retain the ultimate authority** on whether they will adopt the comprehensive eight-year update policy.
## A Comparison to Existing Update Policies
At present, **Samsung and Google** are at the forefront of the Android market in software support, providing **seven years of assured security patches and OS updates** for their flagship devices. Qualcomm’s new initiative could allow other smartphone manufacturers to **match or potentially exceed** this standard of support.
The extended update policy consists of:
– **Eight years of security patches**
– **A minimum of two updates to the Android Common Kernel**, simplifying the release of full Android OS updates even towards the latter stages of a device’s lifecycle
This could revolutionize the Android experience for users desiring devices that remain operational and secure over extended periods.
## The Obstacles of Android Updates
One of the primary challenges that Android has encountered over the years is **fragmentation**—the disparity in software updates across various manufacturers and devices. Unlike Apple, which governs both hardware and software for iPhones, Android operates within a **diverse ecosystem of manufacturers**, each having its unique update policies.
To tackle this challenge, Google has implemented various initiatives over time, including:
– **Project Treble (Android 8.0 Oreo)** – Divided the Android OS from vendor-specific modifications, facilitating manufacturers in updating their devices.
– **Project Mainline (Android 10)** – Enabled Google to update vital system elements via **Google Play Services**, minimizing reliance on complete OS updates.
Qualcomm’s latest commitment enhances these efforts, assuring that **hardware vendors persist in providing updated drivers and components** for a prolonged duration.
## Will Every Manufacturer Embrace the Eight-Year Update Policy?
Despite Qualcomm’s endorsement, **OEMs are not mandated to adhere** to the complete eight-year update schedule. Some manufacturers may opt to **restrict updates to fewer years**, citing worries about performance decline over time.
For instance, **OnePlus** has previously chosen not to align with Samsung and Google’s seven-year update policy, contending that adapting new Android versions to older devices can **adversely affect performance and battery life**. This concern was emphasized when Google’s **Pixel 4a experienced significant battery draining** following a recent update.
Nonetheless, **Samsung and Google**—two significant figures in the Android realm—are anticipated to welcome Qualcomm’s extended support. Samsung, particularly, has a **strong collaboration with Qualcomm**, frequently employing customized Snapdragon chips in its flagship Galaxy offerings. If Samsung opts to broaden its update policy to **eight years**, other manufacturers may feel compelled to follow.
## Implications for Consumers
For Android users, Qualcomm’s new update policy represents **a positive development**. Extended software support implies:
– **Enhanced security** – Devices will be safeguarded against vulnerabilities for a longer duration.
– **Increased longevity** – Users won’t feel pressured to upgrade their devices as often.
– **Greater resale value** – Phones with prolonged update support may maintain their worth better in the resale market.
Nonetheless, consumers should still **verify individual manufacturers’ update policies** prior to buying a new device, as not all companies may fully embrace Qualcomm’s extended support.
## Conclusion
Qualcomm’s initiative to stretch Android update support to **eight years** with the **Snapdragon 8 Elite** is a **significant victory for Android users**. While hurdles persist—such as OEM adoption and potential performance concerns—
