Smartphones with more than 4 years of software support

Smartphones are something that we use on a daily basis. Most of us only replace them after three years or more. However, the case is not the same for flagships when it comes to longevity. These phones come with top-of-the-line modern specifications and features, hence preventing them from becoming obsolete faster. Furthermore, premium smartphones carry a higher price tag making them a long-term investment. Owning a smartphone for four years also reduces your contribution to e-waste. 

One crucial aspect of smartphones that is not related to hardware is the longevity of software support. The operating system that makes your phone usable keeps evolving by adding new features, optimising performance, and ensuring security through regular updates. Without them, devices become prone to cyber-attacks and lose compatibility with apps. An extended software support policy enhances the overall user experience and they can confidently rely on their devices for years to come. 

Phones with the longest software support

While budget smartphones get two OS updates, mid-range phones are eligible for three years of updates. Meanwhile, Samsung and Google have started offering seven years of software support surpassing Apple’s commitment of six years. If you’re aiming to own your device for a longer period, here’s a list of the best smartphones with longer software support. 

ALSO READ: Best smartphones of 2024 that you can still buy in 2025

1. Samsung Galaxy S24

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

3. OnePlus 13

4. iPhone 16 Plus

5. OnePlus Nord 4 

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 series

Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series comprising of standard, plus, and ultra models are eligible for seven years of software updates and security patches. This means that the phones launched in 2024 can continue to receive updates till 2031. The company’s S-series flagships are already popular among Android users and the longer software support also complements the reliable hardware on each device in the lineup.

The S24 and S24+ come with Dynamic AMOLED display, Exynos 2400 SoC, 50MP triple rear camera setup with up to 8K recording, and up to 4,800mAh battery with 15W wireless charging. Meanwhile, the S24 Ultra is powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and features a 200MP main camera with a 50MP periscope lens, and a 5,000mAh cell with 45W fast charging. 

2. Google Pixel 9 Pro

The Google Pixel 9 series is another option with seven years of OS updates. There’s much more – the search giant being at the forefront of the AI revolution, you can expect all the newly announced AI features to first hit the Pixel phones. Furthermore, many of Android’s new features are first rolled out to Google’s smartphones.

The Pixel 9 Pro offers a 120Hz LTPO OLED display with an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, Tensor G4 SoC, UWB support, and satellite connectivity. The device’s triple camera setup comprises a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP periscope telephoto lens, and a 48MP ultra-wide-angle lens. 

3. OnePlus 13

The OnePlus 13 is the latest flagship from the brand that ships with the latest Android 15 OS out of the box. The phone will receive four years of OS updates and five years of security patches. This means that it will be eligible to be updated to Android 19 in the future. The device is compatible with Gemini Nano and comes with various AI features. 

Besides the software support, the OnePlus 13 is an all-rounder flagship. It is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Elite and a 6,000mAh battery with support for 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. There are 50MP main, periscope, and ultra-wide-angle camera sensors capable of recording 4K Dolby Audio. The phone is also IP69 certified and comes with the FindMyDevice feature when it’s turned off. 

4. iPhone 16 Plus

Apple has been the leader in extended software policy for its iPhones until last year when Samsung and Google surpassed the company. However, the Cupertino-based tech giant remains the reliable brand in this aspect as it has stuck to its commitment for years. It’s one of the reasons why many consumers still opt for an iPhone because they would be getting iOS new features for a long period.

The iPhone 16 Plus released last year comes with Apple Intelligence onboard and other things like a dedicated camera control button, a new design, an A18 SoC, and faster charging. Hence, it makes sense to avoid any older iPhones as they are not compatible to receive any future AI features. 

5. OnePlus Nord 4

It’s evident that this list contains flagship devices with high price tags. Fortunately, if you’re on a tight budget and are looking for a mid-ranger with longer software support, the OnePlus Nord 4 is the only option. The brand has promised four years of OS updates for the device which is on par with the premium OnePlus 13 but at a fraction of the price. 

Specs-wise also, it packs a punch with a 120Hz AMOLED display, IP65 resistance, and a 50MP dual rear camera. There’s a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset under the hood and the device is backed by a 5,500mAh battery that can be topped via 100W charging. 

Longer software support is a necessity on smartphones today to ensure that they are still reliable and up-to-date a few years down the line. Do note that every device mentioned above has solid hardware as well.