Qualcomm Technologies has announced an extension of Android software and security updates for select Snapdragon mobile platforms, reaching up to eight years. This initiative begins with devices powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform and will expand to include future Snapdragon 8 and 7-series platforms.
The extended support aims to provide device manufacturers with a longer window for software updates, promoting device longevity and sustainability. Qualcomm emphasizes that this represents its longest period of software support for smartphone platforms.
Key Features of the Extended Support:
- Eight Years of Support:
- The program offers up to eight consecutive years of Android OS and security updates.
- This includes both Android OS and kernel upgrades.
- The program offers up to eight consecutive years of Android OS and security updates.
- Reduced OEM Burden:
- The program is designed to minimize the need for significant changes to OEM code, leveraging the separation facilitated by “Project Treble.”
- Kernel changes will require driver updates, but vendor code can remain largely unchanged.
- This has the potential to lower the cost for OEMs to provide extended support.
- The program is designed to minimize the need for significant changes to OEM code, leveraging the separation facilitated by “Project Treble.”
- Security Focus:
- The eight-year support period includes comprehensive security updates.
- The program includes two upgrades to the Android Common Kernel (ACK) to enhance long-term security.
- This aligns with rising international cybersecurity standards.
- Platform Coverage:
- Smartphones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite launching with Android 15 are the first devices included.
- Future Snapdragon 8 and 7-series platforms will also be eligible.
- The program will cover the next five generations of Qualcomm ASICs, as part of their collaboration with Google.
- OEM Discretion:
- While Qualcomm provides the support framework, the decision to implement the full eight years of updates rests with the device manufacturer (OEM).
- Qualcomm reports that it is already seeing commitments from OEMs to provide longer lasting devices.
- Legacy Platform Limitations:
- Previous Snapdragon platforms are not eligible for this extended support.
- Qualcomm will continue to address software support needs for legacy platforms separately.
Background and Implementation
Qualcomm has collaborated with Google to enable this extended support for Snapdragon platforms. The program aims to simplify the update process for OEMs, potentially reducing costs and allowing for longer device lifecycles.
The company initially announced this initiative at the Snapdragon Summit, with devices receiving extended coverage expected to reach the market towards the end of 2024.
This initiative signifies a shift towards longer-term software support in the Android ecosystem, with potential benefits for both manufacturers and consumers.
Chris Patrick, Senior Vice President and General Manager of mobile handsets, Qualcomm Technologies, said:
Qualcomm Technologies is excited to take this step forward, working closely with Google to facilitate the latest Android OS upgrades on devices with Snapdragon. With this advancement, we are raising the bar, providing more flexibility for our OEMs and ultimately enhancing user experiences. We’re excited to see more OEM devices that support Android OS longevity soon.
Seang Chau, VP and GM of Android Platform, said:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.’s efforts to extend the lifespan of Android devices are a key step for increasing the longevity of smartphones. Through this collaboration, OEMs can more seamlessly update the software and security on their devices, ensuring a more secure and long-lasting Android experience for our users.