Smartphones Have a ‘Software Expiry Date’ — Here’s How to Find It

Smartphones don’t have a “best before” date like food, but they do have a critical deadline: when manufacturers stop providing security updates. This “end of life” date marks when a device becomes vulnerable to cyber threats, according to the End of Life (EOL) website, a resource tracking software support timelines for tech products.

How to Check Your Android Phone’s End of Life

Owners of Android devices can use the End of Life website to find when their phone will stop receiving security updates. The platform lists devices from major vendors, including Samsung, Google, and Apple. For example, the Google Pixel 8 Pro, released in October 2023, will stop receiving Android updates on October 1, 2030, according to the site. The Pixel 6 Pro, launched in 2022, will reach its end-of-life date in October 2026.

Samsung and Google have extended software support for flagship devices. Samsung’s Galaxy S23 series offers seven years of updates, while Google’s Pixel 8 Pro also has a seven-year guarantee, as confirmed by official announcements. Earlier models, like the Pixel 6 Pro, typically receive five years of updates, aligning with industry standards.

Risks of Using a Smartphone Beyond Its End of Life

While a smartphone may still function after its support period ends, it becomes increasingly risky. Without security patches, devices are more susceptible to exploits that could compromise sensitive data, such as banking apps or personal information. According to cybersecurity firm Kaspersky, outdated software is a common entry point for malware attacks.

Users should also consider hardware degradation. Batteries lose capacity over time, and components like screens or charging ports may fail, even if the device is still technically functional. “Even with long software support, hardware limitations often prompt users to upgrade before end-of-life dates,” said a 2023 report by TechRadar.

How Android Vendors Compare on Software Support

Samsung and Google lead in extended support, but other Android manufacturers lag behind. Xiaomi and OnePlus typically offer three to four years of updates, while budget brands like Motorola may provide up to six years for certain models. Apple’s iPhone, meanwhile, has historically offered longer support: the iPhone 11, released in 2019, continues to receive iOS updates as of 2024.

For users of non-Samsung or non-Google devices, the End of Life website remains a critical tool. It allows comparisons between brands, helping buyers choose devices with longer support windows. For example, the OnePlus 11, released in 2023, is set to receive updates until 2027, according to the site.

What to Do When Your Phone Approaches End of Life

Experts recommend upgrading before a device’s support expires to maintain security. However, some users may extend a phone’s lifespan by using alternative app stores or security software. “While these measures can help, they’re not a substitute for official updates,” said a 2024 statement from the cybersecurity nonprofit Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP).

For those who prefer to keep older devices, regular backups and avoiding suspicious links are essential. “The longer you use a device past its support date, the higher the risk of data breaches,” warned a 2023 analysis by The Verge.