The European Union is implementing new regulations that significantly affect Android smartphone manufacturers, aiming to bolster consumer support and device longevity. These changes stem from the EU’s “Ecodesign Regulation,” which mandates that manufacturers provide a minimum of five years of operating system and security updates after a device has been removed from sales.
While companies like Samsung and Google currently offer up to seven years of updates, this commitment typically starts from the device’s launch rather than its sales cessation. The new EU rules, set to take effect on June 20, 2025, reflect a shift toward greater consumer certainty and potentially have global implications for smartphone update policies.
Under the regulations, the five-year update timeline applies specifically to updates post-“end of sales.” Additionally, these regulations will also encompass tablets, aiming to create a better user experience over an extended period.
The EU’s rules will not affect devices that are released before this date, ensuring that any new models launched thereafter will adhere to the updated policies. Moreover, the regulations include several energy labeling requirements.
Manufacturers must disclose information about their devices’ durability against drops, dust, and water, and must ensure that batteries can endure 800 charge cycles while maintaining at least 80% of their original capacity. OEMs will also need to provide information on repairability and secure the availability of spare parts for at least seven years following the end of sales.
Although Google’s and Samsung’s seven-year update cycles are commendable, it’s essential to recognize that hardware limitations might restrict the usefulness of the updates, particularly for advanced AI features reliant on newer chipset technologies. Regardless, consumers can expect increased peace of mind regarding device updates in the coming years.