How to Check If Your Android Phone Still Gets Security Updates

Android devices do not automatically alert users when software support ends, meaning phones can continue running apps while harbouring unpatched security vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Because manufacturers handle updates differently, checking the date of the last security patch and verifying ongoing manufacturer support requires manual inspection through device settings.

Locating Security Patch Dates and Software Updates

Users can check their security patch level by opening Settings, tapping About Phone, and selecting Android Version. On Samsung devices, this information resides under Settings, About Phone, and Software Information. While the patch date shows which fixes are included, it does not indicate how long the device will continue receiving updates.

Checking for newer software versions requires opening Settings, System, and Software Updates, or going to Settings, Software Update, Download and Install on Samsung models. Separate from manufacturer updates, the Google Play system update operates independently to refresh core components like multimedia codecs and encryption. If a security patch is three to six months old, it may simply indicate a delayed rollout rather than dropped support, depending on whether the manufacturer releases patches monthly, quarterly, or on a less frequent schedule.

Checking Manufacturer Support Lifespans

Determining official support lifespans involves finding the exact model name and searching the manufacturer’s website for end-of-support dates and repair frequencies. Databases like endoflife.date also map out software support timelines for various hardware models. When evaluating device security, users must distinguish between the Android version, the security patch date, and the Google Play system update level, as a newer operating system does not automatically guarantee recent patches.

Update policies vary significantly across brands. Newer devices from Google and Samsung receive up to seven years of support, whereas budget models often feature shorter lifespans. European Union regulations implemented on June 20, 2025, mandate a minimum of five years of software updates for new phones and tablets sold in the region.

Risks and Mitigations After Support Ends

When a manufacturer terminates support, the hardware continues to operate, but the risk of cyberattacks, data leaks, and credential theft increases over time. Temporary safeguards include enabling automatic app updates, avoiding unofficial download sources, activating two-factor authentication, and refraining from sensitive mobile transactions. Eventually, banking and payment apps may stop working because they demand active security standards, making it safer to replace unsupported devices with actively maintained hardware.

Common Questions About Android Software Support

How do I know if my specific Android model still receives security updates?

You can verify your device’s support status by locating your exact model name in the database at endoflife.date or by checking the official support pages on the manufacturer’s website. You should also compare your current security patch date against Google’s Android Security Bulletin.

Does having the newest version of Android mean my phone is secure?

No, the Android operating system version does not necessarily reflect your current security level. A newer version can lack recent patches if support has lapsed, while an older version might still be protected if it recently received a security update.

What should I do if my phone stops getting Google Play system updates?

Google Play system updates function independently of manufacturer patches to secure core components like encryption and media codecs. If these updates stop arriving alongside manufacturer patches, the device faces mounting security risks, and upgrading to a supported model is recommended.