Google’s new Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro smartphones could have a shorter shelf life than you might expect. According to a Google support page on the Pixel, the company’s five-year coverage plan actually only includes security updates—Android support may end much sooner. According to Google, both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will receive (and continue to receive) security support through updates until “at least” October 2026. However, it’s only guaranteeing Android version updates through October 2024—three years from when the Pixel 6 became available on the Google Store. Google also shows that support for older models like the Pixel 5a and Pixel 4a will likely cease about three years from their initial release dates. So while your Pixel 6 will continue to receive security updates for the next five years, Android OS updates are only guaranteed for the next three. As The Verge points out, this is in pretty stark contrast to the longevity of Apple’s support for the iPhone—with the iPhone 6S recently seeing iOS 15 support. At 6 years old, that gives the 6S twice the support window of the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are available for preorder now, starting at $599 and $899 respectively, and will release on October 28.
