EU Wants Apple's iOS, Google's Android To Provide Software Updates For Seven Years

Software updates to a smartphone device can extend its life tremendously and keep users up to date with latest features in the market. Now, Germany is contemplating making updates on both iOS and Android mandatory.?

With the proposed law, devices running on Apple's iOS and Google's Android smartphone software would have to give software support to each user for seven years, which could especially benefit Android users who don't receive consistent updates.?

Reuters

Do Apple and Google provide enough updates?

Most Apple devices receive updates up to five years. The more expensive the model, the higher chances of regular updates for the device exist. On the other hand, Android devices face a lag when it comes to updates - with the average time for device support being three years.?

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Google is working to change this, with Samsung at the forefront.The new law in Germany would mandate seven year support for all devices. The German government is feeding the law to the European Union, which would also require companies to provide spare parts for smartphones for at least seven years.?

Reuters

Currently, the European Commission is trying make five years of support for a device mandatory.?

What do companies feel?

Companies aren't sitting duck. According to C't, an industry advocacy group with Google, Apple, and Samsung at the helm is pushing for relaxed regulations.?

"DigitalEurope" wants at least three years of regular updates. In addition, it also wants only batteries and screens to be made available as spare parts.The new law which is still taking shape would come into force in the EU by 2023 and is aimed at reducing the harmful effects of smartphones on the environment.?

Reuters

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The EU wants users to hold on to their devices for as long as they can and for companies to provide support for as long as each user has the device.?

Do you think it's a good idea to force companies to release updates? Would you be interested in a similar law in India? Do let us know in the comments and follow Indiatimes.com regularly for updates.