Buzz
We are all aware that updating the OS on Android is a rather intricate process. This process requires collaboration from all three parties, including software developers like Google, chipset manufacturers such as Qualcomm and MediaTek to write drivers, and device manufacturers like Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi... and possibly even network providers to obtain the final update for an Android device.
Google consistently pushes for the latest Android updates to reach as many devices as possible, and chipset manufacturers also play a crucial role in this process.Discussing the role of OEM phone manufacturers, how long will a chipset manufacturer support the chip used in their Android smartphones? A representative from Android Authority posed this question to chip manufacturers, let's see how they responded.HiSiliconIt will receive support for 2 to 3 years.
Looking back at the history, let's revisit the flagship Huawei of 2017, the Huawei Mate 10 series, and the 2018 P20 series, both of which received the Android 10 update, fulfilling the promised 2 to 3-year support. However, mid-range devices like P20 Lite are still awaiting the update, despite being part of the P20 series. It is likely that older Y series models may not receive the EMUI 10 (Android 10) update.QualcommQualcomm stands as the largest Android processor manufacturer globally, and their response is equally significant.
Our Android mobile platforms receive at least 3 Android versions throughout their lifecycle, meaning 3 years of support. In many cases, it extends to 4, 5, or even 6 software versions depending on customer and market demands,We also provide support services for OEMs that wish to update to additional Android versions or want to expand security patches. Qualcomm emphasizes its bug bounty program and internal security vulnerability testing, actively disclosing any issues discovered during this internal testing process.Qualcomm is not alone in its commitment to mobile innovation. Other industry players like MediaTek and Samsung are also making significant strides. They contribute to shaping the technological landscape with their advancements, ensuring a dynamic and competitive market.
When asked about their commitment to updating their chipsets, both MediaTek and Samsung have remained silent until the time of writing this article.
Phones running on MediaTek chips are often criticized for being infrequently updated. While this may be attributed in part to the fact that OEMs mostly use MediaTek chips in mid-range and budget devices, the commitment to updates from MediaTek remains crucial. Currently, they have yet to provide a response.
Samsung predominantly utilizes Exynos chips in its Galaxy smartphones. Even flagship devices from two years ago, such as the Galaxy S9 and Note 9, have received the Android 10 update. Samsung is actively updating recent mid-range smartphones as well; for instance, the Galaxy J6 and A7 2018 are also set to receive Android 10 updates.HERE
Nevertheless, Samsung has not provided a clear answer regarding the support cycle for its chipset.
Should chip manufacturers be condemned for Android's poor update issue?
Discover the truth: chip manufacturers are just a piece of the Android update puzzle. Emerging OEMs take charge of the majority of the process, collaborating with Google, chip manufacturers, and their own teams to deliver the ultimate update.
Device manufacturers and partners undergo rigorous testing of Android updates or security patches to minimize errors. This testing phase can extend the update release cycle, explaining why savvy users often opt for international phones over carrier-branded ones.
Fortunately, Google is actively working to streamline the Android update process with features like Project Treble and Project Mainline. Project Treble fundamentally redesigns the core framework of Android for faster and smoother updates. Meanwhile, Project Mainline allows some updates to be distributed via the Play Store, bypassing network testing steps.
Chip manufacturers can now seamlessly update GPU drivers via the Play Store. This has been officially confirmed by Qualcomm and ARM.Another often overlooked yet crucial factor in Android updates is the Linux Long-Term Support (LTS) kernel branch. While the Linux kernel serves as the heart of Android, the LTS branch, typically supported for only 2 years, has fortunately seen an extension to 6 years since 2017. This eliminates another hurdle in the long-term Android update process.In summary, chip manufacturers play a pivotal role in the Android update landscape. With companies like Qualcomm supporting 6 updates and Google gradually shifting updates to the Play Store, the responsibility now lies with phone manufacturers. The question is whether they choose to update their devices or hide behind their hardware and software partners.
