Google is taking a huge leap forward in customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility, as it recently announced seven years of software support for its Pixel phones at the launch event for the new Pixel 8 lineup. This new policy, a two-year extension over the previous five-year commitment, was unveiled at Google’s recent “Made by Google” event. While flashy new hardware and OS features often steal the show, this announcement holds far-reaching implications. It stands out as a consumer-friendly and eco-conscious move, setting a new benchmark for competitors.
An estimated five billion phones were discarded in 2022 alone
For those of us not in a hurry to jump onto the latest trend, this is great news. An extended lifespan for Pixel phones means you won’t feel pressured to buy a new device as often. It’s a win for your wallet, allowing you to hold on to your device for a longer period without worrying about software becoming obsolete. It should be noted that Google has previously praised smartphone brands such as Xiaomi, Samsung etc. for providing a commendable number of software updates and security patches to their devices.
The eco-friendly benefits can’t be overstated, especially when you consider that an estimated five billion phones were discarded in 2022 alone. The extended support is expected to encourage longer phone usage, reducing the number of devices ending up in landfills and contributing to pollution. Although Google‘s decision won’t eliminate the problem entirely, it’s a step in the right direction.
While Apple’s support lasts around five to six years, most Android manufacturers lag far behind, offering just about two years. Samsung has made some strides by committing to four generations of Android and five years of security updates, but Google’s new policy puts the tech giant ahead of the game. By taking the initiative, Google has not only turned up its own standards but also applied pressure on other companies to follow suit. The real question now is, will they?
You can read about Smartphone Brands and their longevity of software updates here.
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