Smartphone Support Lifecycle: Which Devices Are Losing Security Updates in 2026

Major smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung, Apple, and Fairphone, have updated their support roadmaps, resulting in the official end of security updates for several legacy models. Consumers using older hardware face increased security risks as critical firmware patches cease for devices reaching their designated end-of-life status. Staying informed about these manufacturer lifecycles is essential for maintaining data privacy and system stability.

Samsung’s Changing Support Strategy

Samsung has officially removed the Galaxy M53 5G from its quarterly security update schedule, according to the company’s official security updates page. The device, which launched in 2022, received its final firmware support as the manufacturer shifts resources toward its newer long-term support initiatives. While support for this mid-range model has concluded, Samsung has simultaneously extended its commitment to newer hardware. The company now guarantees up to six years of security and operating system updates for select upcoming mid-range devices, aiming to extend the functional lifespan of its handsets into the early 2030s.

Apple’s Software Compatibility Shifts

Apple is preparing to drop support for 16 distinct hardware models with the release of its next-generation operating systems, based on recent internal documentation and hardware requirements. The shift primarily targets devices running on older chipsets that lack the necessary architecture for advanced software features. For instance, watchOS updates will transition to require an S9 or S10 chip, effectively ending support for the Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, and the first-generation Ultra. Similarly, iPadOS updates will mandate an A14 or M1 processor, which excludes several legacy iPad Pro and iPad Air models from receiving the latest security enhancements.

Fairphone 3 and 3+ Reach End-of-Life

Fairphone has confirmed that the Fairphone 3 and 3+ will reach their official end-of-life in August 2026, marking the conclusion of a seven-year support era for the modular devices. According to the Fairphone support portal, these models will remain on Android 13, as the hardware is incompatible with the Linux kernel requirements of newer Android versions. While the company will stop providing official security patches, users are increasingly turning to community-driven projects like LineageOS to extend the usability of their hardware, though these unofficial builds often lack the stability of factory-supported software.

How to Manage Security on Older Hardware

When a device stops receiving official security patches, it becomes increasingly vulnerable to emerging exploits. Security professionals recommend the following steps to mitigate risks:

• Check Manufacturer Portals: Regularly review your device manufacturer’s official security bulletin to confirm if your specific model still receives updates.
• Transition to Supported Software: If your hardware is still functional but unsupported, evaluate if the device is compatible with verified third-party operating systems that provide community security patches.
• Upgrade Hardware: For users handling sensitive data, such as banking or work information, upgrading to a device with active manufacturer support is the only reliable way to ensure protection against modern security threats.

Key Takeaways

• Samsung: The Galaxy M53 5G has entered end-of-life status, while new mid-range models are receiving extended six-year support commitments.
• Apple: 16 older models, including specific Apple Watch and iPad versions, will lose support with the upcoming OS transitions due to chipset limitations.
• Fairphone: Support for the Fairphone 3 and 3+ concludes in August 2026, ending seven years of official firmware updates.
• Security Warning: Devices without active security patches are susceptible to known vulnerabilities that could compromise personal information.