Android Updates: Budget vs. Premium Smartphone Support

Let’s face it — buying a smartphone is no longer just about camera specs or how sleek it looks. It’s also about how long it’ll stay up to date. You don’t want your brand-new handset becoming obsolete in a year or two, right?

That’s where Android update cycles come into play. Whether it’s a critical security patch or the latest Android version packed with cool features, regular updates keep your device safe and fresh. But here’s the catch: not all Android phones are treated equally when it comes to software support.

If you’ve ever wondered why your friend’s flagship phone still gets updates after three years while your budget model has already been left behind, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the differences in software support between budget and premium Android smartphones. You’ll gain insights into how updates work, what affects their availability, and what it all means for you as a consumer.

Understanding Android Update Cycles

What Exactly Is an Android Update?

An Android update can come in several forms:

• Major version updates – These bring new features and interface changes (e.g., Android 13 to Android 14).
• Security updates – Monthly or quarterly patches that protect against vulnerabilities.
• Manufacturer updates – Brand-specific enhancements or bug fixes.

These updates are essential for ensuring your phone runs smoothly and securely. However, getting them depends heavily on the type of phone you have in your pocket.

How Android Updates Are Rolled Out

Unlike Apple, which controls both the hardware and software, Android operates on a more fragmented model. Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. Google releases the source code for new Android versions via AOSP (Android Open Source Project).
2. Chipset makers like Qualcomm optimise the code for their hardware.
3. Phone manufacturers (e.g., Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus) adapt it to their custom UIs, such as One UI or MIUI.
4. Carriers (if applicable) test and approve it before it finally reaches your device.

That’s a lot of layers, and each one adds potential delays, especially for budget phones, which often aren’t a priority.

The Gap Between Budget and Premium Android Phones

Update Frequency: Premium Phones Take the Lead

When it comes to software update frequency, premium smartphones tend to get:

• Longer support windows (up to 7 years for some recent flagships!)
• Quicker access to new Android versions
• Monthly security patches

Budget smartphones, however, are often stuck with:

• 1 or 2 major Android updates at most
• Delayed update rollouts (sometimes months late)
• Quarterly or biannual security updates

Case in Point:

Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra is promised 7 years of updates, including Android OS upgrades and security patches. Meanwhile, the Galaxy A14, a budget model, only gets 2 OS upgrades and 4 years of security updates, and that too at a slower pace.

Why Do Premium Phones Get Better Support?

It boils down to a mix of hardware capabilities, economics, and brand reputation.

• Processing power: Premium devices have better specs, making it easier to support new, resource-heavy features.
• Revenue per unit: Brands earn more from premium phones, so they’re more incentivised to maintain them.
• Brand image: Long-term support enhances the perception of value, something premium buyers expect.

Real-Life Impact: What It Means for You

Security and Privacy

Security patches are crucial in keeping your data safe. A budget phone that’s behind on updates might be vulnerable to malware or breaches, even if it still works fine.

Example: In 2023, a known Android vulnerability was actively exploited for months before many budget phones received the patch, if at all.

App Compatibility

As Android evolves, app developers update their apps accordingly. If your phone doesn’t get OS updates, some apps may eventually stop working or get buggy.

You might notice:

• Crashing apps
• Incompatibility with new features
• Slower performance due to outdated frameworks

User Experience

Let’s not forget features. Premium phones often get access to new Android features first — things like Material You customisation, advanced AI tools, or performance boosts.

With a budget phone, you may have to wait… or miss out altogether.

Manufacturer Comparison: Who Does It Best?

Samsung

• Premium: Galaxy S and Z series – 4 OS + 5-7 years of security updates.
• Budget: Galaxy A and M series – 2 OS + 4 years of security (sometimes 3).

Verdict: Still better than many competitors.

Google Pixel

• Premium (Pixel 8 & 8 Pro): 7 years of both OS and security updates.
• Mid-range (Pixel 7a, 6a): 3 OS + 5 years of security.

Verdict: Arguably the best support outside of Apple.

Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO

• Premium (Xiaomi 13 series): 3-4 years of support.
• Budget (Redmi/POCO): Often limited to 1-2 OS updates, slower rollout.

Verdict: Inconsistent, especially in the budget segment.

OnePlus

• Premium: Flagships get 4 OS + 5 years of security (from 2023 onwards).
• Budget (Nord): Typically 1-2 OS updates.

Verdict: Good on top-tier models, less so on budget.

Why Budget Phones Get Left Behind

Cost Constraints

Providing updates costs time and money. Budget phones have tighter profit margins, so extended support may not be financially justifiable for manufacturers.

Lower Priority

OEMs prioritise newer and high-end models. With limited resources, update teams focus on the models that matter most to their brand image and profit.

Hardware Limitations

Some budget phones simply lack the hardware to support newer Android features without slowing down or compromising usability.

Should You Still Buy a Budget Phone?

Absolutely — but with awareness.

Here’s how to get the most out of your purchase:

Tips to Make an Informed Decision

• Choose brands known for better support – Google and Samsung stand out.
• Look for Android One or stock Android – These typically get quicker updates.
• Check the update promise before you buy – Many manufacturers now clearly state how many updates to expect.
• Buy recently launched models – Older models (even if new in the box) may have already used up part of their update cycle.

How the Android Ecosystem Is Evolving

Good News: Update Promises Are Getting Better

Thanks to growing consumer awareness and EU regulations pushing for longer support windows, manufacturers are stepping up. In fact, Google and Samsung’s 7-year promises are setting a new benchmark.

Project Treble and Mainline Modules

Google’s Project Treble and Mainline initiatives have also made it easier for manufacturers to separate core updates from the rest of the system. That means faster updates with less testing required.

Conclusion: Know What You’re Signing Up For

Not all Android phones are created equal, especially when it comes to updates. Budget phone software support lags behind that of premium handsets in both frequency and duration. While this doesn’t make budget phones a bad buy, it does mean you’ll need to be a bit more strategic when choosing your next handset.

If security, longevity, and new features are important to you, investing in a premium model or a mid-ranger with solid update promises might be worth it.

On the flip side, if you’re after a phone for basic tasks and don’t mind missing out on the latest Android flair, a budget phone can still serve you well, as long as you’re aware of its limits.