Google is addressing a major Android problem, but the fix relies on cooperation from phone manufacturers.

Software updates on Apple devices tend to be very consistent. For example, iOS 26 was released for compatible iPhones just before the iPhone 17 became available. Users can typically download the newest software as soon as it is released, provided their device is compatible.

Android software updates, however, are typically more gradual and delayed. Newer, high-end devices are usually updated first, while updates for older or less expensive devices can take months. This lag puts many manufacturers at a disadvantage compared to Google and Apple.

This new, faster Android release schedule eliminates some reasons for major manufacturers to fall behind and gives them the opportunity to provide updates more quickly. Many users would likely appreciate this, and it could give some manufacturers a competitive edge.

However, significant change seems unlikely under the current circumstances. Perhaps if users switched to Pixels or iPhones due to faster software updates, Android manufacturers would be compelled to improve. There is certainly a need for them to make substantial improvements.