Google Backs Pixel 2 And Pixel 2 XL With Three Years Of Android And Security Updates

We now know the Google is being more generous with its support window for the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. Google is guaranteeing that both smartphones will receive major OS update updates through October 2020. That means that both smartphones will be eligible for Android P (2018), Android Q (2019) and Android R (2020).

Security updates will also be provided for three years from the devices’ original release date, ending in October 2020.

For last year's Pixel and Pixel XL, Google only guaranteed two years of Android OS updates, meaning that they have received Android Oreo and will be eligible for Android P in 2018. All bets are off after that. Google will provide security updates through October 2019.

It's admirable that Google is providing three years of OS and security updates for its latest hardware devices, and this move should give customers more peace of mind that their device will be supported for the long-haul. Given that customers have to practically beg many OEMs to provide timely updates when a new Android OS is released, Google’s clockwork delivery of updates is a breath of fresh air.

While three years is no doubt a long period of time to support a mobile device, Apple sets the bar even higher with its iOS devices. Apple is still providing the latest iOS 11 operating system and security updates for iPhone 5s, which was first released back in 2013. That smartphone originally shipped with iOS 7.