OnePlus is committed to releasing major Android updates for four years. However, not all of its smartphones will be eligible.
OnePlus joins the list of Android device manufacturers with a long-term commitment to software support. Today, the Oppo brand promises four years of major OxygenOS updates for “select”smartphones to be released from 2023. The company is also announcing five-year security updates. The brand did not name the affected devices, but it would not be surprising if the most expensive phones are in the game, such as the already anticipated OnePlus 11.
OnePlus commits to four years of major Android updates
The manufacturer also hinted at some of the features coming to OxygenOS 13.1 when the version arrives in the first half of 2023. This new version will include an improved Spotify-enabled always-on screen, including AI-driven memory management. improved performance, Dolby Atmos spatial sound (in collaboration with Google and Dolby), second-generation privacy space, and an “aquamorphic”design.
However, not all of its smartphones will be eligible.
This new extended software support puts OnePlus on par with Samsung, which has also committed to delivering major Android updates within four years and security patches for its flagships within five years. Google has begun offering phones with five-year security patches for its Pixel 6 lineup, but has only offered major updates for three years. Apple, for its part, offers five years of major releases for its iPhones and rolls out critical security patches to older models as needed.
This OnePlus commitment can prove useful if you intend to take advantage of the latest software features throughout the life of your phone. It’s still common in the Android market to offer less. Motorola has angered customers for only planning one major update for its Edge lineup in 2020. Entry and mid-range devices likely won’t get that many years.