Qualcomm has announced a major expansion of its software support timeline, enabling device manufacturers to provide up to eight years of Android system and security updates for select smartphones. The initiative will debut with devices powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, marking a significant advancement from Qualcomm’s previous support windows.
The extended support program represents the longest duration of software support Qualcomm has offered for smartphone platforms, building upon the company’s established track record of delivering secure mobile solutions through its Snapdragon series processors. The initiative takes advantage of advancements in Android architecture, particularly “Project Treble,” which streamlines the update process by reducing the need for extensive modifications to manufacturer-specific code.
Under the program, security patches will be delivered throughout the eight-year period, accompanied by two Android Common Kernel (ACK) upgrades to maintain long-term security and compatibility. The security-focused approach complements Google’s recent efforts to strengthen Android security, including the introduction of enhanced anti-scam features and SafetyCore.
While Qualcomm provides the technical framework for extended support, the implementation of the full eight-year update period remains at the discretion of individual device manufacturers. New phones released this year featuring Snapdragon 8 and 7-series platforms will also be eligible for the extended support program, potentially benefiting manufacturers who have historically integrated Qualcomm’s biometric security features, including ultrasonic fingerprint sensors and secure processing units.
The extended support program builds upon existing Android architecture improvements to help extend device lifespans while maintaining security protections. Devices offering this extended support began entering the market in late 2024, starting with Android models equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite AP running Android 15, which introduces additional security features such as passkey integration and AI-driven theft protection.
Sources: Times of India, Phone Arena
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