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Short answer: The newest documented flagship groups are broadly tied on promised support length: Google promises Pixel 8 and later seven years of Android and security updates; Samsung promises the Galaxy S24 and S25 series seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates. That is not a guarantee that every Galaxy or Pixel gets the same term—or that one brand delivers updates faster. Check the exact model and its support start date.
How long do Pixel and Galaxy phones get updates?
| Phone group | Operating-system support | Security support | How the term is counted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Pixel 8 and later | 7 years of OS updates | 7 years | From the phone’s first availability on the Google Store in the US, according to Google’s Pixel update policy. |
| Google Pixel 7a, Pixel 7/7 Pro, Pixel 6/6 Pro/6a, and Pixel Fold | 5 years of OS updates | 5 years | Google’s policy lists five years of updates; the policy’s start-point definition is first availability on the Google Store in the US. |
| Samsung Galaxy S24 series | 7 generations of OS upgrades | 7 years | Samsung’s S24 announcement states the term; it does not specify the same start-point wording as Google’s policy. |
| Samsung Galaxy S25 series | 7 generations of OS upgrades | 7 years | Samsung says the term runs from global launch in its S25 announcement. |
| Selected Samsung devices under the 2022 policy | Up to 4 generations of One UI/Android OS upgrades | Up to 5 years | Samsung’s 2022 announcement covered selected Galaxy S, Z, A, and tablet devices; availability and timing could vary. |
Google lists Pixel 5a and earlier as no longer receiving Android-version or security updates. Samsung’s four-generation/five-year policy is historical context for selected devices, not a blanket rule for every Galaxy phone. For either brand, use the policy for your specific model rather than inferring eligibility from the logo.
What counts as an OS upgrade versus a security update?
- OS or version upgrades move an eligible phone to a later Android release. On Samsung, eligible OS upgrades also correspond to One UI releases.
- Security updates address security issues and can continue on a schedule distinct from major OS upgrades.
- Rollout timing is when a particular eligible device actually receives an update. A promised support term does not say exactly when an update will arrive.
That distinction matters when comparing the numbers: “seven years” of security support and “seven generations” of OS upgrades describe related but different commitments.
Does Pixel or Samsung deliver updates sooner?
The published policy terms do not establish a brand-wide speed winner. Google says Pixel updates roll out gradually and depend on carrier and device; an update can take a few weeks to reach a particular phone. Samsung says OS and security-update timing can vary by model, network provider, and market.
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#1 Best Overall
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 512GB, Black
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
There is no comparative average time-to-update figure in these official policy announcements for equivalent Galaxy and Pixel models. A specific phone’s arrival date is therefore a better question than whether Pixel or Galaxy is universally faster.
How to check your phone’s update status
On a Pixel
- Open Settings and check About phone for the Android version and security update level.
- To check for an update, open Settings > System > Software update. Google’s Android version and update instructions explain the status check.
On a Galaxy
- Identify the exact Galaxy model and regional variant rather than relying on the series name alone.
- Check Samsung’s support and Mobile Security resources for device-specific information and security-update details.
For purchase comparisons, also note the policy’s clock start: Google explicitly counts from first US Google Store availability, while Samsung specifies global launch for the S25 term. Those are not interchangeable dates, and Samsung’s S24 announcement does not state the same start-point wording.
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Bestseller No. 3
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Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked, 6.7", Dual SIM, 50MP Triple Camera (Case Bundle), Black
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Rank #4
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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Black
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #3
Samsung Galaxy S26, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 256GB, Black
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #2
Sale
Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Blue
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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