Best Phones with Long-Term Software Support

Why Software Updates Matter

When I buy a phone, I never look only at the camera or battery. I always check how long the phone will receive updates. Without updates, a phone becomes slow, insecure, and outdated.

Updates help by:

• Fixing bugs
• Improving security
• Adding new features

Phones with 5–7 years of support last longer and save money because you don’t need to upgrade often.

Top Phones with Long-Term Software Support (2025)

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra	7 years OS • 7 years security • Support ends 2032 • RM 6,299
2. Google Pixel 8 Pro	7 years OS • 7 years security • Support ends 2030 • RM 4,999 (import)
3. Samsung Galaxy A55	4 years OS • 5 years security • Support ends 2029 • RM 1,999
4. OnePlus 12	4 years OS • 5 years security • Support ends 2029 • RM 3,899
5. Fairphone 5	5 years OS • Up to 8 years security • Support ends 2033 • RM 4,300 (import)

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – The Best for Long Support

Samsung now offers 7 years of Android and security updates — the longest update cycle in the Android world.

Why I recommend it:

• Premium flagship build
• Fast and consistent updates
• Excellent long-term value

Best for: Professionals, creators, and users who want a phone that lasts many years.

2. Google Pixel 8 Pro – Pure Android with 7-Year Support

Google gives 7 years of updates, and Pixel devices get updates earlier than any other Android phone.

Why I recommend it:

• Clean and smooth software
• Best Google AI features
• Fast monthly security updates

Note: Not officially sold in Malaysia; import only.

3. Samsung Galaxy A55 – Best Budget Option

If you want long-term software support without spending too much, the A55 is a strong pick.

Why I recommend it:

• 4 years Android updates
• 5 years security updates
• Good AMOLED display and cameras

Best for: Students, light gamers, and everyday users.

4. OnePlus 12 – Fast, Smooth, and Long-Lasting

OnePlus promises 4 years of major OS updates and 5 years of security patches.

Why I recommend it:

• Fast charging
• Powerful performance
• Clean OxygenOS experience

5. Fairphone 5 – The Longest Repairable Phone

Fairphone focuses on sustainability. You can replace parts easily, and it has extremely long support.

Why I recommend it:

• Up to 8 years of security updates
• Easy to repair
• Eco-friendly design

Note: Must be imported into Malaysia.

FAQ: Long-Term Software Support

1. What does “long-term software support” mean?

It means the phone gets regular OS upgrades and monthly or quarterly security patches for many years.

2. Which brands offer the best long-term support?

Samsung Galaxy S Series, Google Pixel, Fairphone, and OnePlus offer 4–7 years of updates.

3. How long does Apple support iPhones?

Usually 5–6 years of iOS updates. Many old iPhones still receive updates.

4. How long does Samsung support its phones?

Flagships: 7 years • A Series: 3–4 years.

5. What about Google Pixel phones?

Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro offer 7 years of updates, making them among the longest supported Android phones.