Apart from Google, no other major Android OEM has ever provided any word on their official Android update policy. Sony, however, is bucking the trend and has provided an official statement on its Android upgrade policy for its devices.

The company says in its statement that it aims to support its premium flagship devices with the latest Android updates for two years after they are first released. For mid-range and entry-level devices though, the company decides on whether it should go ahead with the upgrade or not after testing them. If in testing, the update does not meet its standard and if the company feels the hardware is not capable of delivering a stable user experience, it scraps the update.

“We aim to support all premium range devices with the latest Android updates for two years after the device has launched. We may choose not to upgrade a mid-range or entry-level device if testing does not meet our exacting standards and we feel the hardware isn’t capable of delivering a stable user experience.”

For security updates, Sony is not as upfront as it should be. The company essentially plays with words here to bury the fact that it might not release security updates for its devices on a monthly basis.

“Our Security Update Program is an on-going initiative to make regular protective patches available against the latest risks, vulnerabilities and flaws, including: Android security (released by Google), those from relevant third-party vendors and any Xperia-specific issues. Depending on timing and situation, security updates may be released separately, as part of firmware maintenance or within a full Android OS upgrade.

“Because the Security Update Program is available to our entire premium line, select mid-range devices – timing and phasing may vary by carrier.”

Our Take

Sony might not be a major Android OEM now as it once was. Nonetheless, the company has definitely led the way in terms of Android OS updates for its flagship devices. The company’s major flagship devices are already running Oreo, while Samsung the biggest Android OEM out there, is yet to update even a single device from its portfolio to the latest version of Android.

However, you should avoid buying a mid-range or entry-level Sony device as they are unlikely to receive Android OS updates for two years.