Samsung extends Android and security updates to 7 years
Samsung’s move to offer seven years of Android and security updates for its new Galaxy S24 phones is widely seen as a positive step toward longer device lifespans and less e‑waste, especially as hardware performance gains slow. Commenters debate how meaningful this is in practice, noting that support appears limited to recent flagships, batteries and repairability remain constraints, and Google’s ecosystem decisions (like SafetyNet) still limit true owner control. Some call for broader changes such as upstreamed drivers, unlockable bootloaders, less bloatware, and stronger right‑to‑repair and parts availability to make long-term use genuinely viable.
Scope and significance of 7‑year updates
- Many see 7 years of OS/security updates as a major positive shift away from 2–3 year “e‑waste” cycles.
- Some note it currently seems limited to the S24 series; unclear whether older or cheaper models will benefit.
- A few worry vendors will use long support as justification to raise prices while real innovation slows.
- Others compare favorably to Apple’s long support history but stress Samsung must prove it in practice.
Open ecosystem, bootloaders, and SafetyNet
- Several want true upstreamed support: mainlineable kernels, open drivers, and bootloader unlocks so users can maintain devices past vendor EOL.
- Google’s hardware‑backed SafetyNet/attestation is criticized for making custom ROMs incompatible with banking and similar apps, even if users can technically build their own OS.
- Some clarify Samsung bootloaders can be unlocked, but Knox is permanently disabled when doing so.
Bloatware, UX, and vendor customizations
- Split views on Samsung’s One UI and apps: some praise them as polished, feature‑rich, and better than stock; others see them as sluggish, redundant, privacy‑hostile bloat.
- Requests for a one‑tap “stock Android mode” or minimal install option; others argue many users actively value Samsung’s extras (Notes, browser, Bixby Routines).
- Custom ROM users report big battery‑life gains vs stock Samsung/Pixel builds.
Budget phones, economics, and longevity
- Complaints that long support only applies to flagships; cheaper M‑series devices get short lifecycles despite being adequate for many.
- Debate over whether it’s realistic to fund 7‑year support on $150–$200 phones; suggestions include tiny price increases or open‑sourcing enough for community maintenance.
- Some argue repeatedly buying cheap phones can cost less but leaves you stuck with low‑end hardware.
Batteries, repairability, and parts
- Many note batteries, not performance, usually limit device lifespan.
- Replacing batteries every ~2 years is framed as reasonable maintenance, but experiences vary on post‑repair reliability.
- Concerns about genuine battery availability after several years; some rely on reputable third‑party packs.
- Battery‑health features (charge limits, “optimized charging”) on Samsung and Apple are seen as important for multi‑year use.
Regulation, verification, and trust
- Some claim this move is driven by upcoming EU rules; others ask which law, indicating uncertainty.
- Frustration that Samsung’s own materials are vague about which models/regions get 7 years.
- Links to vendor and community “end of life” trackers are shared as better sources for support timelines.