Phone with Long term Software Support
Top Smartphones with the Best Long-Term Software Support (2025)
When it comes to buying a smartphone in 2025, most people still focus on camera quality, battery life, and price. However, one crucial factor that tech-savvy users are now prioritizing is long-term software support. A phone that continues to receive operating system updates, security patches, and feature enhancements for many years is not only future-proof but also offers better value for money. In this blog, we’ll look at the top smartphones in 2025 that offer the best long-term software support.
Why Long-Term Support Matters
Software support plays a vital role in keeping your smartphone secure, efficient, and compatible with the latest apps. Many users change their phones every 1–2 years due to lack of updates, but brands that offer long-term support encourage users to stick with their devices longer. It’s also environmentally responsible, reducing e-waste and energy consumption.
1. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max / iPhone 16 Series
Apple remains the undisputed leader when it comes to software support. The iPhone 15 Pro Max and the newer iPhone 16 lineup continue Apple’s tradition of delivering updates for more than five years. Users of the iPhone 11 series released in 2019 are still receiving the latest iOS versions in 2025, and the same will apply to current models. Expect at least six years of iOS updates and strong resale value.
2. Google Pixel 9 Pro / Pixel 9 Pro XL
With the release of the Pixel 9 series, Google reaffirmed its promise of offering **7 years** of Android OS updates and security patches. The Pixel 9 Pro XL is not only packed with Google AI features but also stands out for being the most updated Android device over time. Google controls both hardware and software in Pixels, which results in clean and prompt updates.
3. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra / S25+ / S25
Samsung has transformed its update policy in recent years. With the Galaxy S25 series, Samsung now provides 5 years of security updates and 4 major Android OS upgrades. Their One UI skin is stable and optimized. Thanks to their wide market and software investment, Samsung has become a top name in long-term Android support.
4. OnePlus 13R and OnePlus 13
OnePlus has become more aggressive with its software commitment. The OnePlus 13R, despite being a mid-range phone, gets 3 years of Android upgrades and 4 years of security patches. Meanwhile, the OnePlus 13 flagship gets 4 years of Android updates and 5 years of security. Clean OxygenOS and fast updates make it a smart buy.
5. ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra
ASUS has been working hard to enter the update race. The Zenfone 11 Ultra comes with a minimum of 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches. While ASUS may not be as fast as Pixel or Samsung in rolling out updates, its consistency has improved, and the Zenfone lineup is now a good choice for long-term users.
6. Fairphone 5
The Fairphone 5, while not mainstream, is designed for longevity. It promises up to 8 years of support and is made from repairable, sustainable materials. It’s a niche device, but a fantastic pick for eco-conscious users who want both durability and long-term software support.
7. Sony Xperia 1 VI
Sony offers around 3 major Android updates and 4 years of security for its flagship Xperia devices. The Xperia 1 VI continues this trend and is optimized for creators and media lovers. Sony's update policy has improved significantly in the past few years, making it a viable pick for long-term reliability.
8. Motorola Edge+ (2025)
Motorola once lagged behind in updates, but the Edge+ 2025 model has turned things around. It now offers 3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of security support. Clean software and a partnership with Google have helped Motorola make this progress. It’s a solid choice for those wanting near-stock Android with decent longevity.
9. Nothing Phone (3)
Nothing has made a name with its unique design and minimalist OS. The Nothing Phone (3) offers 3 Android upgrades and 4 years of security patches. It’s not the best on this list for support duration, but the simplicity and innovation make it worth considering.
10. Xiaomi 15 Ultra
Xiaomi has pledged longer support for its premium devices. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra will receive 4 years of Android updates and 5 years of security updates. Though MIUI (or now HyperOS) is feature-packed and heavy, Xiaomi’s commitment is improving, especially in its flagship category.
Why Mid-Range and Budget Phones Don’t Get Long Support
Most mid-range or budget phones get left out of long-term support because of lower profit margins, hardware limitations, and a faster replacement cycle. Brands often push users toward newer models by limiting updates. However, this trend is slowly changing, especially with brands like Samsung, OnePlus, and Google extending support even to mid-range devices.
Tips for Choosing a Phone with Good Software Support
1. **Check the brand’s update policy** before buying. Most brands now publicly declare their software support plans.
2. **Avoid obscure or less-known brands** unless they’re known for Android One or clean Android builds.
3. **Choose newer flagship models** or upper mid-range devices for the longest support.
4. **Look for partnerships with Google** or Android One initiative.
5. **Read community and Reddit discussions** to see how previous models were supported.
Benefits of Long-Term Software Support
1. **Security:** Your data and apps stay protected.
2. **Performance:** Software updates often improve battery life, speed, and efficiency.
3. **Features:** New OS versions bring AI features, camera upgrades, and smoother UI.
4. **Value:** Phones with long-term support hold their resale value better.
5. **Sustainability:** Keeping a phone longer reduces carbon footprint and e-waste.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the smartphone landscape is rapidly evolving, but software support remains a crucial feature for long-term users. Whether you’re an iPhone fan who enjoys six years of iOS or an Android user eyeing Google’s seven-year promise, picking a phone with a solid update roadmap can save you money and headaches. Long-term software support is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity.
Choose wisely, and you might be able to use your phone happily until 2030.
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