Samsung releases monthly security updates for the majority of its smartphones, although older devices only receive quarterly updates. This is now the case for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+. We recently heard that Samsung would not be releasing the Android 10 update for these two devices.
The Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ are now classed as older devices by Samsung and they will no longer receive the monthly security updates. Instead, these two smartphones will now only receive a security update four times a year or every quarter.
Impact on Galaxy S8 and S8+ Users
For users of the Galaxy S8 and S8+, this change means that their devices will not be as frequently updated with the latest security patches. While quarterly updates still provide a level of security, they are not as robust as monthly updates. This could potentially leave the devices more vulnerable to new security threats that emerge between updates.
The Galaxy S8 series was launched in April 2017 and has been a popular choice among Samsung users due to its sleek design and powerful features. However, as technology advances, older models like the S8 and S8+ inevitably fall behind in terms of software support. This is a common practice among smartphone manufacturers to encourage users to upgrade to newer models.
Continued Support for Galaxy S8 Active
Interestingly, Samsung’s Galaxy S8 Active smartphone is still eligible for monthly security updates. This rugged version of the S8 was released in August 2017 and is designed to withstand harsher conditions, making it a popular choice for users who need a more durable device. Samsung provides these monthly security updates for at least three years, which means the S8 Active should continue to receive updates until at least August.
The decision to continue monthly updates for the S8 Active while moving the S8 and S8+ to quarterly updates highlights Samsung’s strategy of prioritizing devices based on their user base and usage scenarios. The S8 Active’s extended support could be due to its niche market and the expectation that it will be used in more demanding environments where security is paramount.
What This Means for Future Samsung Devices
Samsung’s approach to updating its devices provides insight into how the company manages its product lifecycle. Newer models receive more frequent updates, ensuring they remain secure and up-to-date with the latest features. As devices age, the frequency of updates decreases, eventually leading to the end of support.
For consumers, this means that while purchasing a new Samsung device, they can expect robust support for the first few years. However, as the device ages, they should be prepared for less frequent updates and eventually consider upgrading to a newer model to maintain optimal security and performance.
In conclusion, while the Galaxy S8 and S8+ will no longer receive monthly security updates, they will still receive quarterly updates, ensuring a basic level of security. The Galaxy S8 Active will continue to receive monthly updates until at least August, reflecting Samsung’s commitment to supporting its more rugged devices. As technology continues to evolve, users should stay informed about their device’s update schedule and plan accordingly to ensure they remain secure and up-to-date.
Source Sammobile
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
