Apple will now provide at least five years of support for its iPhone models. In response to new rules in the UK, Apple has established a minimum software support window for its iPhones.
Known for its long-lasting software updates, Apple has announced that the iPhone 15 series, including the flagship iPhone 15 Pro Max, will receive at least five years of regular updates and security patches.
However, competitors Samsung and Google still lead in this area, offering up to seven years of minimum software support on their flagship smartphone series, including the Pixel and Galaxy S7 Ultra.
Samsung and Google Lead with 7-Year Support
Historically, Apple has been praised for the length of its software support. However, unlike its Android competitors, Apple has never disclosed the exact number of years for this support.
In contrast, Android manufacturers like Google and Samsung have been more transparent, committing to providing seven years of support for their flagship devices, the longest in the industry.
iPhone 15 Models to Receive 5 Years of Updates
According to a report by GSMArena, new UK regulations have pushed Apple to clarify its support policy. As a result, Apple has announced a minimum of five years of support for the iPhone 15 family.
While this is two years less than what Google and Samsung promise, it’s important to understand that Apple’s five-year commitment is a baseline, not a limit. This means that Apple guarantees at least five years of updates but can also extend support.
For instance, many older iPhones have received updates for more than five years, demonstrating Apple’s dedication to long-term device support.
This announcement is significant as it marks the first time Apple has provided a concrete minimum support timeframe for its devices.
Unlike Android manufacturers who make such announcements directly, Apple has revealed this due to regulatory pressure.
Nonetheless, iPhone users will be pleased to know that their devices will remain secure and updated for at least five years.
Although Apple’s minimum five-year support for the iPhone 15 series may seem less than Google and Samsung’s seven-year support, it’s crucial to note that Apple’s commitment is a minimum guarantee.
The company has previously provided more support than the minimum, ensuring that iPhone users continue to enjoy updates and new features for many years.
