Google extends support for older smartphones thanks to Tensor

I thought about how ambiguous the story with Google Tensor looks. On the one hand, this processor is criticized by everyone who has ever delved behind the scenes of its development. But, to be honest, thanks to Tensor, Pixel still has something to boast about. Cool photos, cool artificial intelligence – this is standard, but the news about an additional two years of support for Pixel 6, Pixel 7 and even Pixel Fold is really impressive. Maybe we are being a little unfair to this chip? After all, it clearly has its own tricks.

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Here, for example, is the Pixel 6. It started with Android 12 and was supposed to complete its “life program” on Android 15. And the Pixel 7 – on Android 16. But no, now they will receive updates up to Android 17 and 18 respectively. Imagine? This is a real gift for those who are not in a hurry to run after new products every year. And this is further proof that these smartphones have not lost their relevance.

I like how Google is always a little ahead of everyone when it comes to supporting older devices. Just think, a three-year-old Pixel will receive updates for as long as the brand new ROG Phone 9 Pro! It seems a little ironic, because other Android manufacturers simply cannot afford such generosity. It's all about Tensor.

Android updates are not just “taken and installed”. Everything is much more complicated, because support depends heavily on the processor. In the case of Qualcomm or MediaTek, support is limited to what the chip manufacturer itself provides, which is usually four years maximum. Of course, you can spend a lot of money to extend this period, but why? But Samsung, with its Exynos, at least keeps control. Google with Tensor too.

Due to the fact that Tensor is their own development, Google can do whatever they want with it. And this allows them to support devices longer than most competitors. That is why the Pixel 6 and 7 received such a “bonus”. But, to be honest, I don’t think this will become a habit for Google. Now they are promising seven years of support for the new Pixel 8, and this is probably the limit.

True, Tensor is not perfect. In terms of performance, it has never reached the top, and every year the lag becomes more noticeable. But its advantage lies in something else. Thanks to it, Google can offer not only longer support, but also set the tone for the entire Android ecosystem. This is their trump card.

And finally. I would like other manufacturers to catch up in this matter, but this is unlikely to happen. Qualcomm and MediaTek simply do not make economic sense to spend money on continuing to support older models. Therefore, in this regard, Google is still playing in its own league.