Google and Qualcomm team up to give phones 8 years of updates

Good news for smartphone fans! Qualcomm, a big name in phone chips, is working with Google to make sure new devices get Android updates for up to eight years. This starts with their latest chip, the Snapdragon 8 Elite. It means your phone could stay fresh and secure for almost a decade!

Here’s how it works: Qualcomm is launching a special plan with Google. This plan lets phone makers (called OEMs) get Android system and security updates for eight years straight. They won’t need to redo a bunch of tricky stuff on the phone’s software each time—an idea tied to something called “Project Treble.” The core of the system, known as the kernel, will get two big updates to keep things running smoothly and safely.

Why does this matter? The kernel is like the heart of your phone’s software. With these upgrades, phone makers can keep your device protected longer without the chip holding it back. Qualcomm says this will also cut costs for companies that want to support their phones for years.

But here’s the catch—it’s up to the phone makers to roll out these updates. Qualcomm is ready to help, and some companies are already on board to keep their phones going longer. The first phones to get this boost are the ones with the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Android 15. This deal also covers the next five waves of Qualcomm’s chips, like the Snapdragon 8 and 7-series coming soon. Older chips, though, won’t be part of this.

Google’s Pixel 9 and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 already promise seven years of updates, but this new plan pushes it even further. “This is a big move to make phones last longer,” said Seang Chau, a top boss at Google’s Android team. “It helps phone makers keep devices safe and up to date easier.” Qualcomm’s Chris Patrick added, “We’re thrilled to work with Google on this. It gives phone makers more options and makes your phone experience better for years.”