BERLIN  – Effective immediately, eight smartphones from the Xiaomi ecosystem will no longer receive software updates. This includes not only entry-level devices like the Redmi A1 or the Poco C50, but also two former flagships that just a few years ago were considered attractive all-rounders. With the discontinuation of software support, Xiaomi marks the final end-of-life status for these models. Neither new features nor security updates are planned. The upcoming HyperOS 3.0 will also not be distributed to these devices. For owners, this means: calling, browsing, and app usage will continue to work, but with each month without a security update, the risk of hacking and software incompatibilities grows.

The Known Weakness: Update Policies of Chinese Manufacturers

That Xiaomi pulls the plug comparatively early is no surprise to market observers. For a long time, major Chinese manufacturers have been known for their short update policies. While Apple and increasingly Samsung promise support of five to seven years, the situation looks different for Xiaomi, Huawei, Vivo, Poco, or OnePlus. Typically, a device receives at best two years of regular Android and security updates. After that, there may be one year of sporadic security patches – or nothing at all.

The result: owners of such devices must look for a new smartphone much sooner if they value data security and compatibility.

Huawei: From Innovator to Problem Child

Huawei was once considered one of the most innovative manufacturers in the Android segment. Technological advances, whether in camera development or network technologies, gave the company a leading role. But the US sanctions against Huawei and the absence of Google services have massively weakened the brand in Europe. Update cycles also lag behind: software support is mostly limited. Even top models are rarely updated regularly for more than three years. For many European consumers, Huawei is therefore hardly an attractive alternative.

Vivo and OnePlus: Solid Hardware, Short Lifespan

The situation is similarly critical for Vivo and OnePlus. Both manufacturers score with attractive hardware at competitive prices. Vivo often emphasizes strong camera technology, while OnePlus positions itself as a “flagship killer” with high performance and the OxygenOS user interface. But the update policy clouds the picture:

• Vivo limits updates on many devices to two or three years. In the mid-range segment, support often ends even sooner.
• OnePlus now promises up to four years of Android updates for some models, but older devices and entry-level series are discontinued much faster. Users frequently report that security patches arrive with significant delays.

This means: even if a OnePlus smartphone is technically on par with Samsung or Apple, the restricted support considerably shortens its actual lifespan.

Poco: Affordable but Short-Lived

As a Xiaomi sub-brand, Poco is especially popular with budget-conscious buyers. The devices often offer strong hardware at very low prices. But here, too, the same pattern emerges: a maximum of two years of serious software support. After that, it ends. For security-conscious users, this means: a low entry price quickly comes with the disadvantage that a new purchase is required much earlier.

Apple and Samsung: Role Models in Long-Term Support

A clear contrast appears when comparing with the two market leaders: Apple and Samsung.

• Apple regularly supplies iPhones with iOS updates for up to seven years. Even older models continue to receive security patches, extending the devices’ lifespan significantly.
• Samsung has followed suit: for many Galaxy models – especially flagships – the company now guarantees up to five years of security updates. This positions Samsung clearly as a counter-model to the Chinese competitors.

This update strategy not only increases data security but also benefits the environment, as devices can be used for longer.

Security First: Risks of Outdated Software

A smartphone without current software may still function flawlessly at first glance. But the dangers are real: banking apps, enterprise solutions, or sensitive applications often require an up-to-date security level. Without regular patches, the risk of malware, phishing, or unnoticed data leaks rises. At the latest, when apps refuse to run because the software is too old, replacing the device becomes unavoidable.

Bloatware and Demands for Transparency

Another annoyance, especially criticized in devices from Xiaomi, Huawei, or Vivo, is bloatware. Many devices come with pre-installed apps that are neither needed nor easily uninstallable. Consumer advocates therefore demand that users gain more control over their devices. The EU is already discussing possible regulations that could force manufacturers to meet minimum update standards and allow unnecessary software to be removed.

Opportunities at IFA and MWC

The upcoming IFA in Berlin and MWC in Barcelona trade fairs provide manufacturers with the opportunity to respond to the growing criticism. Trade visitors and consumers alike expect clear statements: will the update policies of Chinese vendors improve in the future? Or will the short support cycles remain, forcing users into premature new purchases?

Such opportunities are crucial to regaining trust – and perhaps even to staying ahead of increasing regulatory pressure from Europe.

Apple: Absence from Trade Fairs

Interesting, too, is a look at Apple, which has not had a presence at IFA or MWC for years. The company relies on exclusive events and controlled product presentations. Critics see this as a sign that Apple avoids direct dialogue with customers. The parallel with the former cult brand Nokia is striking: once considered untouchable, Nokia was quickly overtaken by the market. A cautionary example that shows how vital customer proximity and adaptability remain.

Conclusion: Short Update Cycles Remain a Risk

Xiaomi, Huawei, Vivo, OnePlus, and Poco impress with modern hardware and innovative features. But as long as update cycles remain short, a central disadvantage persists: devices lose security and value much faster. For consumers, the recurring question is: Do I save on purchase price – or invest in longer support and more security?

One thing is clear: for those prioritizing data security and long-term use, Apple and Samsung are currently the far more reliable choice. Chinese competitors urgently need to improve – not only to regain customer trust but also to remain competitive in an increasingly tough market. (hz)