Nokia-branded phones are getting updated to new versions of Android significantly faster than phones from Samsung, LG, Xiaomi, Huawei, or any other major smartphone manufacturer, according to a new study.
Counterpoint Research found that 96 percent of Nokia phones sold since the release of Android Pie have either shipped with or been updated to the latest iteration of Android. Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei each have figures in the 80-plus percent range, but no other company that Counterpoint studied was even close. Lenovo and Oppo were below 50 percent, while LG, Vivo, and others were below 20 percent.
Image: Counterpoint Research
Slow updates have been a perpetual problem for Android smartphones. Even flagship phones aren’t guaranteed to be running the latest version of Android out of the box, and updates to new versions tend to arrive slowly, if at all. Unlike iPhones, which tend to get support from Apple for four or more years, even the most expensive Android phones tend to have support fall off after two or three years. Google’s promise of three years of support for Pixel phones makes it a standout.
The situation has improved over time. Google has made changes to Android that make it easier for manufacturers to deliver timely updates, and it’s begun requiring that popular phones receive a minimum of two years of security updates, which are ultimately more important than feature updates.
Image: Counterpoint Research
Still, as Counterpoint shows, the situation is still bad for most phone manufacturers. Looking at their portfolio has a whole, updates take even longer, with only three phone brands —Nokia, Lenovo, and Xiaomi —having half of their portfolio running the latest version of Android a year after its release, according to the study.
Making all this worse: as Counterpoint points out, people are increasingly hanging onto the phones for longer. As that trend continues, a lack of updates is going to mean more people running outdated versions of Android, missing features and security updates and making life harder for developers who have to code to an even wider variety of devices.
FAQs
Counterpoint Research found that 96 percent of Nokia phones sold since the release of Android Pie have either shipped with or been updated to the latest iteration of Android. Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei each have figures in the 80-plus percent range, but no other company that Counterpoint studied was even close.
Why is Nokia better than Samsung? ›
Build Quality: Nokia is renowned for its robust build quality, while Samsung offers sleek designs and premium materials. Operating System: Nokia initially relied on its proprietary Symbian OS before transitioning to Windows Phone and later adopting Android. Samsung primarily utilizes the Android operating system.
Which phone gives more Android updates? ›
Google has set a new benchmark for Android OS updates and security patches by offering 7 years of support with its Google Pixel 8 series, which was launched last year. Samsung has followed suit with its Galaxy S24 series, which was launched earlier last month, also offering 7 years of OS upgrades and security patches.
Why Nokia did not opt for Android? ›
Cord spreads the blame for Nokia's fall onto former CEO Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, and the company's faulty organisational structure. According to the book, the reason Nokia declined to switch to Android was because Samsung was much stronger and executives were afraid to compete against them in that ecosystem.
Why is Samsung better than other Android phones? ›
Samsung phones have very good quality cameras, compared to other companies phones. Samsung phones are secured by KNOX chips. They improve security. Some Chinese phones have fàke security system and fàke security apps full of Ads.
What is so good about Nokia? ›
Nokia has a long history of producing durable and reliable phones, and many people appreciate their build quality and longevity.
What are the disadvantages of Nokia? ›
- The Resistance To Smartphone Evolution. Nokia failed to take advantage of the Android bandwagon. ...
- The Deal With Microsoft. ...
- Nokia's Failed Marketing Strategies. ...
- Moving Too Slow With The Industry. ...
- Overestimation Of Strength. ...
- Lack Of Innovation In Products.
Google Pixel 8 Pro is the best Android phone in terms of security. e build our phones to be secure from the start, and monthly security patches ensure you won't be left behind in future attacks.
Which phone brand has the best software? ›
Google invented Android, so it's version of Android is considered the gold standard. But Samsung perfected Android, so if you want to try the most advanced Android features, you need a Samsung phone. Other phone makers like OnePlus, Motorola, Oppo, Xiaomi and more all have benefits as well.
Which phone brand has the longest lifespan? ›
Here is a breakdown of the average mobile life according to the different brands:
- iPhone – four to eight years.
- Samsung – three to six years.
- Huawei – two to four years.
- Xiaomi – two to four years.
- Oppo – two to three years.
Nokia failed because it was slow to adapt to the rise of smartphones. Apple and Android revolutionized the industry with touch screens, app ecosystems, and sleek designs, while Nokia's devices were outdated and lacked the user-friendly interface and app ecosystem that became crucial for smartphones.
What is the cause of Nokia's downfall? ›
Slow Response to the Smartphone Revolution: Nokia's demise was a result of its failure to recognize the promise of smartphones and the transition to touch-screen technology. They missed out on opportunities to profit from the expanding smartphone market because of its initial resistance to adopting smartphones.
Why did Nokia choose Windows over Android? ›
Nokia chose Windows phone, we were told, because Microsoft granted the firm special status among its licensees. They collaborated with Microsoft on the evolution of the platform, which provided Nokia with the control over its own destiny that it required.
Is Samsung still the best Android? ›
Samsung's bigger flagship — but not the big big flagship — is once again the best Android phone for most people. The Galaxy S24 Plus is a crowd-pleaser if the crowds want a big screen, impressive cameras, and good battery life (I think they do).
Why do people prefer Samsung? ›
Samsung loyalists have long placed multitasking capabilities at the top of the list of reasons they prefer Galaxy devices. Galaxy devices leverage crisp, expansive screens to give users various options for working across multiple apps.
Which is the best phone, Nokia or Samsung? ›
The choice between Samsung and Nokia depends on your preferences and needs. Samsung often offers a wider range of smartphones with various features, while Nokia is known for durable and reliable devices. Consider factors like budget, desired features, and personal preferences to make the best decision for your needs.
What are the advantages of Nokia phone? ›
The memory card used in Nokia handsets are a lot cheaper than those used in Sony Ericsson phones. The battery back-up is also better in the handsets produced by this company. One can have fast internet surfing speed on these phones as they are based on some of the best technologies.
What makes Nokia different? ›
Making phones that make a difference
Nokia phones feature high-quality materials and go through product testing more vigorous than the industry average. And with 2 years of security patches and 3 years of Android upgrades, your phone is made to last, inside and out.
Why is Nokia the strongest phone? ›
One of the key factors contributing to the Nokia 3310's legendary strength is its double layers of plastic surrounding the technology. This extra layering provides a level of resilience that sets it apart.
