Apple has always been known for offering extended software support for its iPhones, although it has never made official promises about a specific number of years. This is different from the situation with Android, where most device manufacturers make promises about software support. Well, that has changed.
It must be said that Google and Samsung are now leading the way in this field, having committed to seven years of support for their flagship devices. And, judging by the published data, Apple does not reach this figure – It's five years for the iPhone, so it's not exactly leading the charge.
New rules were recently introduced in the UK, forcing Apple to announce a minimum support period for the iPhone 15 range. It has been confirmed that the Pro Max variant will be supported for at least five years (and it stands to reason that others will follow suit). While this is two years less than the main Android competitors, it is important to note that this is the minimum guaranteed by Apple. The company has a track record of extending support beyond that initial period, as evidenced by the iPhone 6s receiving software updates for six years after its launch in 2015.
Apple's strategy is to provide guaranteed minimum support and often exceed these commitments. This, as well as the long operating time of the devices, helps to increase the value and longevity of the brand. But really, after five years, the Cupertino-based company can make whatever decisions it wants about updates.
In the world of Android, support promises vary widely from manufacturer to manufacturer. While Google and Samsung lead the way with seven years, others offer much shorter terms. This spread can leave consumers feeling unsure about the longevity of their devices.
Software updates are critical to the lifespan of a mobile device. They provide access to new features, improve performance and, most importantly, fix security bugs, protecting against emerging vulnerabilities and threats. Advanced software support ensures user safety. Therefore, when buying a smartphone, this factor plays not the last role.