Modern flagship smartphones now feature software support windows extending up to seven or eight years.
This shift in vendor policy impacts how developers and users plan device lifecycles, balancing hardware longevity against battery wear and maintenance costs.
Today's flagships from companies like Apple, Samsung, and Google are designed to last anywhere from five to seven years. The decision on when to replace a phone depends on factors like update support, battery health, and repair costs.
Software support
Apple offers significant support for its iPhones. iOS 27 supports devices released in 2019, such as the iPhone 11, although the most advanced artificial intelligence features require at least an iPhone 15 Pro. In addition, the company has committed to providing at least five years of security updates to comply with regulations.
In the Android space, things have changed significantly. While devices used to be supported for three years, Google announced seven years of support in 2023 starting with the Pixel 8 series, a move that was followed by companies like Samsung and Honor. At the same time, Qualcomm announced that new phones with certain processors can expect up to eight years of updates.
Battery wear and health
The battery inevitably loses capacity over time. Most modern devices retain about 80% of their original capacity after about 500 full charge cycles.
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Heat is the biggest factor in deterioration. Exposing the device to temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius or heavy use, such as gaming while fast charging, can cause permanent capacity reduction.
Repair or replacement
Repair costs also play a role. A screen replacement can cost anywhere from $80 to $300, while a battery replacement typically ranges between $40 and $150.
As a general rule, if the repair cost is below 50% of the current value or resale price of the device, the repair is worth it.
When is it worth upgrading?
With proper battery care and regular updates, a modern smartphone can last between four and six years. Even the most careful users may need to replace the battery at some point, a cost that remains low compared to buying a brand new device.
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