Software and security updates are increasingly crucial differentiators in the competitive smartphone market. Honor, known for innovative phones like the Magic V3, recently announced a commitment to provide seven years of software and security updates for its flagship devices. This move aligns Honor with industry leaders and addresses growing consumer demand for longer-lasting smartphones.
Honor Magic V3 camera
Honor’s Extended Update Policy
Honor’s commitment promises seven years of security and software updates for flagship Honor Magic series phones, starting with the Honor Magic 7 Pro. Initially rolled out in the EU, the global reach of this commitment remains unclear. While the focus is on future flagship devices, including both standard and foldable models, the definition of “flagship” remains undefined. Specific timelines for update releases haven’t been disclosed, a common practice in the industry due to various development factors.
Honor Magic 7 Pro, both available colors.
The Significance of Long-Term Support
The increasing cost of smartphones and economic pressures are pushing consumers towards longer phone ownership cycles. Studies show a growing trend of users keeping their phones for three years or more. Honor’s commitment to extended updates offers reassurance to consumers, particularly those investing in premium foldable devices, that their phones will remain supported and secure for an extended period. This commitment doesn’t retroactively apply to existing devices like the Honor Magic V3, which retains its current four-year software and five-year security update schedule.
A promotional image showing the Honor 300.
Comparing Update Policies
Samsung, a major competitor, offers a similar seven-year update policy for devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy S25 series. This policy was introduced with the Galaxy S24 series, with earlier models receiving shorter support periods. Oppo and OnePlus, other key rivals, provide four years of OS updates and six years of security updates for their flagship models like the Oppo Find N5 and OnePlus 13.
Honor Magic V3 held next to the Galaaxy Z Fold 6
Honor Joins the Seven-Year Club
Honor’s new update policy aligns it with Google’s Pixel 9 lineup, which also receives seven years of software and security updates. This positions Honor as a leader in Android update longevity, making its future devices, like the anticipated Magic V4, more attractive to consumers seeking long-term support and value.
Honor Magic 7 Pro
