Google and Samsung have set the bar high for Android phones by announcing updates to seven generations of Android for the Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24 series. Apple doesn’t usually say how many software updates the iPhone will receive, but it’s known for providing long-term software support for its phones. Thanks to new rules in the UK, Apple has finally defined a minimum support period for its iPhone 15 family, and it’s shorter than what Google and Samsung currently offer.
iPhone 15 Pro Max minimum duration of software support
As spotted by Android Authority’s Mishal Rahman, Apple recently uploaded a new document to its website in compliance with the UK’s Product Safety and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI). In the document, Apple says it will provide security updates for the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max for at least five years. “Defined Support Period” is “a minimum of five years from the date of first delivery”. The “first delivery date” is listed as September 22, 2023. This period is two years less than that of the main competitors.
A “security update” is defined by PSTI as “a software update that protects or improves the security of a product, including a software update that addresses security issues that have been discovered by the manufacturer or notified by the manufacturer.” Based on this, we can expect Apple to support some devices for longer.
Previously, the giant from Cupertino provided updates for some models for more than five years. The iPhone XS, introduced in September 2018, is still compatible with iOS 17. This guaranteed software support period may change with the release of the iPhone 16 series this fall.
On the other hand, Samsung and Google currently guarantee at least seven years of Android and security updates for their latest Galaxy S24 trio and Pixel 8 series, respectively.
