Security Updates: Over 1.5bn telecoms consumers still cling to ‘dying Android smartphones’ –Report

*Over 1.5 billion active Android phones of the estimated total global Android user base of about 3.9 billion no longer receive security updates, leaving consumers exposed to known exploits in cyberspace, just as Google ended support for Android 13 brand March 2026, says report

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

Artificial Intelligence (AI) features make smartphones flashier than ever, yet over 1.5 billion Android phone consumers worldwide are still making a silent choice – sticking with their old devices, a report has said.

It is noted that a massive share of Android phones is aging out of support, with the Google Pixel 6 family next in line. Samsung’s best-selling Galaxy S22 series has five months of life left.

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The report also disclosed that the share of end-of-life (EOL) Android devices globally is higher than ever.

The report stated: “Unsupported Android phones continue to grow in numbers despite manufacturers extending software support to five years or more and introducing new generative AI features.

“In August 2026, only 56.7 percent of Android mobile phones were running a still-supported Operating System (OS) version, Android 14 or later, according to StatCounter.com’s data.

This development leaves over 1.5 billion active Android devices vulnerable to known exploits and unable to receive updates that protect against future threats, according to report.

Various estimates as well put the total global Android user base at around 3.9 billion.

Further still, it is estimated that only a minority of users run the latest software, like Android 17 (around 1%) or Android 16 (nearly 26%).

The old device might seem to be working just fine, but it’s at huge risk – unpatched security vulnerabilities can lead to total compromise, report noted.

Multiple critical remote code execution vulnerabilities have been unveiled over the past few years.

It explained that some don’t even require any privileges or user interaction

Google Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro support ends October 1

Even relatively new devices can become vulnerable if users neglect security updates – cybercriminals are quick to leverage generative AI to exploit known vulnerabilities.

As time goes by, the arsenal of exploits continues to grow, according to report.

For instance, the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will soon reach end of life – their support ends on October 1, 2026, according to endoflife.date, a Web site that aggregates device support data.

Fairphone 3 and 3+ end shipping security updates on September 30th.

On Samsung, Apple iPhone brands

A more significant impact will be when one of 2022’s best-selling flagship families, the Samsung Galaxy S22, S22+, and Ultra, ends support in five months, on February 25th next year.

Samsung has many more devices reaching EOL before that: S21 FE 5G and budget Galaxy F04, and popular A14 5G devices.

iPhones have security advantages compared to Android devices, as Apple tends to provide updates for longer, report stated.

The survey added Apple maintains a list of Supported iPhone models – 7-year-old iPhone 11 family devices are receiving the latest iOS 27, while maintenance for older iPhone XR, XS, and Max ended four months ago.

Top Android phone brands 2026

Meanwhile, a report has indicated that Samsung leads the top Android phone brands, in 2026, offering market-leading hardware, advanced AI integration, and extensive software support, according to GSMArena.Com.

Samsung Standout models: Galaxy S26 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy A17 5GWhy they lead: Samsung dominates global market share with top-tier flagship displays, feature-rich One UI software, and versatile foldables.

Google Pixel Standout models: Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11, Pixel 10a. Why they excel: Google provides the best clean software experience, top-tier AI features, and high-value mid-range options like the Pixel 10a.

Xiaomi Standout models: Xiaomi 17 Ultra, Xiaomi 15T Pro, Poco F8 Ultra. Why they excel: Known for aggressive value, massive batteries, and high-end camera technology in their flagship Ultra lines.

OnePlus Standout models: OnePlus 15. Why they excel: Delivers top-tier raw performance, fast charging speeds, and large batteries.

Motorola Standout models: Motorola Razr 70 Ultra, Moto G Power 2026. Why they excel: Leads the accessible flip-phone foldable market alongside dependable budget devices.