How many years do you think a mobile device should be supported at minimum? Currently, the most common support period seems to be 4-5 years. Is this duration sufficient, or should longer software support policies be adopted? For instance, how problematic can it be when software support ends early despite the device's hardware durability? In your opinion, what would be a user-centric approach to this?
How important is software support for product lifespan?
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I find the 4-5 year software support period on standard smartphones quite inadequate when compared to personal computers. As you know, desktop operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux) are typically supported for 5-10 years, allowing users to continue safely using their systems even as hardware wears out. Mobile devices should adopt a similar approach: for example, while Google's Pixel series offers 5 years and Apple offers 7 years of support, Samsung limits some models to just 4-5 years, clearly lagging behind. The gap between hardware lifespan and software support pressures users to upgrade, which only exacerbates both costs and waste issues.
One of the most forward-thinking examples in this area is the Fairphone project. These devices, designed with modularity for longevity, also extend software support beyond 5 years, and community-developed ROMs allow them to remain usable for 6-7 years. Ideally, manufacturers should adopt an approach that prioritizes sustainability in both hardware and software. Their responsibility shouldn’t end at point-of-sale; it should cover the entire lifecycle of the device. Otherwise, a system focused solely on selling new models will inevitably lead to increased electronic waste and resource exploitation.