Samsung extends 6-year updates to cheapest 5G Galaxy A phones

Samsung has broadened its software update commitment, now extending a six-year support period to several of its more affordable Galaxy A series 5G smartphones. This policy, which includes both major Android operating system upgrades and security patches, recently saw the Galaxy A07 5G quietly launched in Thailand on , as one of the first budget-friendly devices to benefit from this extended longevity. The move aims to enhance device lifespan for consumers seeking long-term value from their mobile technology.

Samsung officially launched the Galaxy A07 5G in Thailand, making it the latest addition to its lineup to receive an extended software update guarantee. The device comes preinstalled with Android 16-based One UI 8.0 and is slated to receive updates through Android 22, alongside six years of security patches. This builds upon a broader policy announced in , which committed seven years of updates to flagship models such as the Galaxy S, Z, and Tab S series devices launched that year or later. The six-year policy for budget and mid-range A-series models began expanding in late , initially with the Galaxy A16 lineup.

The extended support policy differentiates between Samsung’s premium and more accessible devices. Flagship Galaxy S, Z, and Tab S series models from onwards are eligible for seven years of both Android OS upgrades and security updates. For select budget and mid-range Galaxy A series models, including new devices like the Galaxy A07 5G, Samsung is now providing six years of software support. This encompasses six major Android OS upgrades and six years of security patches. Specific models identified to receive this extended support include the Galaxy A16 5G, Galaxy A06 5G, Galaxy F06 5G, Galaxy A26, Galaxy A36, Galaxy A56 5G, and Galaxy A17 5G.

This initiative from Samsung is positioned to offer greater value and extend the usable lifespan of its devices for a broader consumer base. According to Gizmochina, longer software support, once exclusive to expensive devices, is now being offered to more affordable models, narrowing the gap between premium and budget smartphones. SammyGuru notes that this commitment sets a new industry standard, emphasizing longevity and user satisfaction. The Galaxy A07 5G, for instance, is priced in Thailand at 5,499 THB for the 4GB RAM + 128GB storage variant and 5,999 THB for the 6GB RAM + 128GB storage variant, offering a combination of affordability and extended support. The device features a 6.7-inch HD+ PLS display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 800 nits brightness, a 50-megapixel primary camera, and a 6,000mAh battery.

While the six-year update policy is confirmed for several Galaxy A series phones, the precise global rollout schedule and the comprehensive list of all specific “cheapest 5G Galaxy A phones” that will ultimately fall under this extended policy remain largely unspecified beyond the initial models mentioned. Details regarding regional availability and carrier-specific implementation of the updates are also not fully outlined.

Consumers purchasing eligible Samsung Galaxy A series 5G phones can anticipate a longer period of support, receiving regular Android OS upgrades and security patches for up to six years from the device’s launch. This extended commitment is expected to improve device security and functionality over time, potentially influencing purchasing decisions for users who prioritize longevity. The company’s focus on extended software support for budget models may prompt other Android manufacturers to re-evaluate their own update policies to remain competitive in the market.

Consumers considering a new Samsung Galaxy device should verify the specific software update policy for their chosen model at the time of purchase, as policies can vary by series and launch date. Prior to any major software update, users are advised to back up all important data to prevent potential loss. Additionally, users should regularly check their device’s settings for available software updates to ensure their phone benefits from the latest security patches and feature enhancements.

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