Smartphone Security at Risk: Millions of Devices to Lose Software Support in 2026
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The year 2026 marks a critical turning point for smartphone users, as a wave of devices will reach the end of their software support lifecycles. This impacts millions globally, particularly those who purchased phones between 2021 and 2022, when extended software support was not yet standard practice. While the European Union now mandates five years of support, manufacturers previously offered varying levels of commitment, leaving many devices vulnerable.
The reality is that when you purchase a smartphone, you’re also purchasing a limited period of software support. This support encompasses two key areas: new operating system versions, which introduce features and improvements, and, crucially, security updates that protect against evolving threats. “Malware developers actively target phones that haven’t been updated in a long time because they lack the latest protections,” one security analyst noted. With numerous phones set to lose support next year, users face increased risk.
What Does End of Support Actually Mean?
In 2026, a significant number of smartphones will cease receiving updates, encompassing both system updates (Android and iOS) and environmental updates linked to the operating system. However, the true end of support arrives when manufacturers stop providing security patches. For some brands, system updates will cease first, followed by security patches at a later date.
The loss of regular security patches – delivered monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually – is the most critical consequence. When critical bugs and vulnerabilities emerge, manufacturers will no longer issue fixes for unsupported devices. Apple is a notable exception, occasionally extending support for older iPhones, but Android users should not expect similar leniency. It’s rare for manufacturers to revisit phones that have already lost software support, though it can depend on the model’s popularity and the number of units still in use.
Ultimately, phones reaching the end of their support lifecycle will no longer receive updates, without any explicit warning from the manufacturer.
Which Phones Are Affected?
The most vulnerable users are those with low-end or mid-range phones that have sold in high volumes. Brands like Redmi and Poco are particularly affected, as are older models from Apple, Google’s Pixel line, Samsung, and Xiaomi. The following list, while not exhaustive, highlights key devices slated to lose support in 2026:
Xiaomi: The Xiaomi 12 and 12 Pro will receive updates until the first quarter of 2026. Support for the Xiaomi 12X and 12 Lite extends to March 2026, while the Xiaomi 12T series will be supported until October 2026.
Redmi: The Redmi Note 12 series is also nearing its end-of-life. The Redmi Note 12 5G and Redmi Note 12 Pro+ will stop receiving support in October 2026, while the standard Redmi Note 12 will lose support as early as March 2026.
Poco: Poco is also phasing out support for several models. The Poco F5 will cease receiving security updates in May 2026, with support for the Poco X5 and Poco X5 Pro ending in the first quarter of next year.
Google: Google will end software support for the Pixel 5a in August and the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro in October.
Apple: Apple is expected to discontinue updates for the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max with the release of iOS 27 in September. While Apple may extend support, the future for these models remains uncertain.
Samsung: A wide range of Samsung devices will lose updates in January, including the Galaxy S21 series (including the S21 FE). Support for the Galaxy Z Flip3 and Galaxy Z Fold3 ends in August. Lower and mid-range models like the Galaxy A13 and Galaxy A23 will also lose support in March.
Other Manufacturers: Sony’s 2023 Xperia models will lose security patches between May and August. Motorola’s Moto G13, Moto G23, Moto G53, and Moto G73, as well as the Moto G04, will lose support in January. Nokia’s Nokia X30 will be unsupported as of January, followed by the Nokia G22 in April and the Nokia G42 in June.
Can You Still Use an Unsupported Phone?
Yes, but with caveats. While an unsupported phone will continue to function for basic tasks like calls, texts, and photos, it becomes increasingly vulnerable to security threats. “An unpatched phone is easier prey for hackers,” a cybersecurity expert warned, “especially through spoofed websites or apps containing malware.”
Although system and pre-installed app updates may still be available, the lack of security patches leaves the device exposed. If phone security is a priority – and considering the sensitive data stored on these devices, it should be – upgrading to a supported model is essential. However, if the device is used solely as a backup for basic communication or as a dedicated multimedia player, the risks are mitigated.
Mitigating the Risks
While the risk of hacking an unsupported phone is not necessarily high, the potential impact could be significant. Consider whether you access online banking, store sensitive files, or have passwords saved in a readily accessible format.
Experts advise limiting risky behavior, such as visiting questionable websites, and installing applications only from official app stores. On Android devices, be particularly cautious of installers downloaded from the internet or social networks, as they may bypass the phone’s limited security protections.
Furthermore, regular backups are crucial. “If you’re not already backing up regularly, now is the time to start,” one IT professional suggested, “to avoid unpleasant surprises down the line.”
Ultimately, the end of software support serves as a clear signal that it’s time to consider a new device. While your old phone may still function, its security is compromised, and the potential consequences could be severe.
