Following Google's announcement of seven years of software updates for its Pixel 8 lineup last year, Samsung made a similar promise for its recent Galaxy S24 series. The company is currently preparing for the launch of two new smartphones – the Galaxy A55 and the Galaxy A35 – and if you anticipate whether it will follow a similar suit for its mid-range smartphones as well, we now have an official answer for you.
A registration page for the forthcoming A series smartphones is live on Samsung India’s website, stating that both the Galaxy A55 and the Galaxy A35 would get four OS updates. Additionally, there are some other bits about the phones and their launch date.
Seven Years of OS Upgrades Limited to Flagship S Series for Now
The registration page reveals that the Galaxy A55 and A35 will not receive seven years of special treatment from Samsung. Both smartphones will be eligible for four Android/One UI updates and five years of security patches.
Previously, when Samsung announced four years of OS updates for its smartphones, certain A series models were also included in that list. Later when the company extended the timeframe to seven years with its Galaxy S24 lineup, it remained to be seen whether other cheaper smartphones would receive similar benefits or not.
Now, we know that Samsung's seven-year software commitment is currently exclusive to premium smartphones only. Maybe, the company could have a change of plans in the future.
Here’s Why This Makes Sense on Samsung’s Side
Longer software support would give consumers another compelling reason to buy Samsung smartphones. However, if Samsung does extend the update support for its mid-range smartphones, it could also work against its favor. For instance, people might adopt new smartphones at a slower pace since they would continue to receive new features and fixes for a longer period. Also, considering the number of smartphones Samsung launches, it could increase the burden on the software team.
Samsung Isn't Afraid Of Commitment
With its four-year commitment, Samsung had set an example for other Android phone makers to follow. Later, other brands like OnePlus and Oppo also promised four software upgrades, but it was limited to their flagships only. Samsung, in contrast, also has some mid-range mobiles in its list. Last year, Google offered seven years of software support on its Pixel 8 devices, and Samsung soon caught up with the recent Galaxy S24 series.
Everything Else We Know About the Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A35
There are some other details about the Galaxy A55 and A35 on Samsung’s registration page. Both smartphones will be water-resistant to some extent. Samsung describes the design of these phones as “iconic” and built with “premium materials.” Besides, it states that they'll feature a powerful processor and excel in low-light photography.
Interestingly, the phones might miss out on Galaxy AI, as there is no mention of it on the registration page or in Samsung's social media teasers. We are wondering whether this is because it's another feature reserved for premium smartphones or due to the chipset’s limitations.
Lastly, Samsung India has revealed that both the Galaxy A55 and the Galaxy A35 will be unveiled on March 11. There are no details regarding the release, though. We will learn more about the phones and their international launch as we get closer to the unveiling.
