Do you buy every year or do you wait as long as you can?

When you go shopping for a new phone, whether from a carrier, retailer, or online from the comfort of your living room, you probably have a lot on your mind. You need to consider display sizes, camera quality, storage and RAM allocations, and much more. While not a top priority at this time, reliable software updates are just as critical as these hardware specs. .After all, you don't want to get stuck on an outdated or broken version of Android.

Reliable software upgrades not only keep your phone running great, they also keep you using it longer. For example, if your daily driver is a Pixel 3a, you might not feel the need to 'upgrade for at least the rest of 2022. It's running Google's latest version of Android 12. In fact, its software is more up-to-date than what is currently available. the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. And while you might want to buy a Pixel 6a later, it's not a staple nearly three years after the device's initial launch. Samsung phones are also kept up to date , especially when it comes to timely security patches.

ANDROIDPOLICE VIDEO OF THE DAY

Of course, not all Android makers are so consistent. Motorola's range of mid-range and budget phones are affordable, but they usually only get one major upgrade and often launch with software. already outdated. OnePlus is a unique case, recently releasing Android 12 for its latest flagships, but with enough changes and bugs to make the phone much worse than before.

Of course, even if your device stops receiving upgrades, you can always turn to third-party ROMs to extend its life. Releases like Paranoid Android continued development through 2022, bringing Android 12 to phones that will probably never get it. Even a select group of once-popular gadgets like the Galaxy S2 continue to receive support from die-hard fans and users.

For this week's poll, I think it's worth looking at the longest time our readers have ever had their phone. It doesn't have to be your current device – you may have just 'upgrade for the first time in years during the holiday season - rather, whatever your current save for the length of time between purchases. Phones have become more expensive than ever over the past few years, but they also became more reliable. I wouldn't be surprised if many of us kept devices for years.

What's the longest time you've ever lasted on a smartphone?

Fossil Gen 6 review: Time is running out

It's not bad, but it can't compete

Read more

About the Author

Will Sattelberg (791 articles published)

Will has been an Android enthusiast since getting his first smartphone in 2011. He loves watching movies, has an endless backlog of video games, and produces a comedy podcast in his spare time. He lives in Buffalo, NY and is ready to give you chicken wing recommendations at any time. Just ask.

More Will Sattelberg