In the vastly diverse Android ecosystem, one of the main issues that users often complain about is the delay in operating system (OS) updates. Not all smartphone manufacturers provide Android updates quickly or consistently—and this can impact security, performance, and user experience.
This article discusses the Android phone brands that are known for being the fastest and most consistent in providing OS updates, and why this is so important to modern consumers.
Why is Android Update Important?
Android updates not only bring new features, but also include:
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Security patches
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System performance and stability
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Interface design (UI) updates
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Support for new technologies (e.g. AI, 5G, etc.)
Unfortunately, because Android is used by so many brands with varying layers of interface customization, the update process can vary greatly.
1. Google (Pixel Series): Leader in Speed and Consistency
It’s no surprise that Google is in first place. As the developer of Android itself, the Pixel series is the first device to receive updates to new versions of Android—often before the official release to other OEMs.
Superiority:
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Monthly OS updates and security patches directly from Google.
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Software support for up to 7 years (for Pixel 8 and later).
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No bloatware and pure UI (stock Android).
2. Samsung: Consistency Has Increased Dramatically Since 2021
Samsung has made a major transformation in its software strategy. Since 2021, Samsung has promised 4 years of major OS updates and 5 years of security patches for selected flagship and mid-range devices.
Best supported brands:
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Galaxy S series (S23, S24, dst)
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Galaxy Z Fold dan Z Flip
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Galaxy A5x and A7x series
Key Features:
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One UI is stable and fast to update.
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Fast updates especially for flagship models.
3. OnePlus: Fast, But Less Consistent
OnePlus is known for delivering fast updates, especially on flagship devices like the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus Open . However, in recent years, their consistency has waned, especially on the Nord line.
Advantages:
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OxygenOS which is close to stock Android.
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Quick in releasing beta updates.
Notes:
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Some mid-range models are often late or receive only minor updates.
4. Xiaomi: Lots of Customization, But Slow Updates
While Xiaomi is very aggressive in the market with competitive pricing, their OS update speed is not very impressive, especially in the Redmi and POCO lines. Their UI (MIUI and HyperOS) are often updated cosmetically, but not always accompanied by the latest Android updates.
Highlight:
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Flagship devices like the Xiaomi 14 Pro are getting more attention sooner.
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Many devices only get 1–2 OS updates.
5. ASUS and Sony: Good Enough for Flagships
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ASUS (ROG Phone and Zenfone series) provides good updates to the flagship, but the gaming line sometimes lags behind.
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Sony Xperia stays true to the near-stock Android experience and delivers updates fairly quickly, though not too prominently.
6. Other Brands (realme, vivo, OPPO): Starting to Increase
In the last 2 years, these brands have started to show an increased commitment to software, especially on their flagships. However, updates for entry-level devices are still slow or non-existent.
Example of improvement:
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OPPO Find X and realme GT series start receiving 3 years of OS updates.
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vivo X series also shows increased speed.
Conclusion: Which is the Most Reliable?
Brand | Update OS | Security Updates | Consistency |
---|---|---|---|
Google Pixel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Very consistent |
Samsung | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Very good |
OnePlus | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Good, but fluctuating |
Sony/ASUS | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Pretty good |
Xiaomi/POCO | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Lack of consistency |
realme/vivo/OPPO | ⭐⭐ – ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Improved, but not yet on par with the big flagships |
Tips for Consumers:
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Choose a device from a brand with a good update track record.
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Pay attention to OS support promises at device launch.
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Use the latest version of Android device for optimal security.