Android Version End of Life (2026)

Android version support varies significantly by manufacturer. Google releases a new major version annually, but security patch availability depends on the device maker, chipset vendor, and carrier. Unlike Apple or Microsoft, Google separates OS-level updates from app-layer updates via Google Play Services, meaning many security fixes reach users without a full OS update.

Version Support Table

Support Policy

Google guarantees 3 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches for Pixel devices (Pixel 8 and later get 7 years). Samsung offers 4–7 years depending on the Galaxy tier. Most Android manufacturers provide 2–3 years of OS updates and one additional year of security patches.

The key distinction is Google Play Services — an OS-independent layer that updates via the Play Store. Most Android security vulnerabilities are addressed through Play Services updates, including WebView, Play Protect, and framework-level fixes. This means devices running older Android versions still receive critical security patches even after the manufacturer stops providing OS updates.

How to Check Your Android Version

Open Settings > About Phone > Software Information (or Android Version on newer devices). The Android version number (e.g., 14) and security patch level (e.g., June 2026) are displayed.

# Not applicable — Android does not expose version info via shell by default
# on consumer devices without root.

On development devices, adb shell getprop ro.build.version.release returns the Android version.

FAQ

Related

• Python Version EOL Schedule
• Android Development Guide
• iOS Version End of Life