The Linux kernel (Android is just another flavor of Linux, mostly) is also included here because it may need to be updated and patched to support newer versions. Qualcomm says it's committed to supplying whatever is needed for two versions of the Android Common Kernel to meet that eight-year window.

Qualcomm and Google are working together to provide up to 8 years of software updates for Android phones, starting with new Snapdragon chips. The extended support is a challenge to Google's Pixel series,

Qualcomm is teaming up with Google to bring 8 years worth of updates to all Android devices with Snapdragon 8 and 7 series chipsets.

More Android phones could soon provide longer lifetime support updates thanks to a new agreement between Qualcomm and Google. Qualcomm announced on Monday that “up to eight consecutive years of software and security updates” will be available to Android phones running on future Snapdragon 8 and Snapdragon 7-series chips.

Qualcomm and Google collaborate to extend the duration of Android software updates, enhancing device longevity and security.

Qualcomm has announced that it and Google are committed to give Android devices eight years of updates, but obviously not all are eligible.

Google and Qualcomm’s collaboration is a major milestone in extending the life of smartphones and responding to the increasing demand for more sustainable, secure devices. Offering up to eight years of updates, this initiative is set to reshape how we think about smartphone longevity, ensuring users can enjoy a longer and safer mobile experience.

The extended support window only applies to Android devices with the latest Qualcomm chipsets. To start, the eight-year support timeline will be extended to devices running the new Snapdragon 8 Elite mobile platform,

Qualcomm is extending support for Android software updates to 8 years on phones with Snapdragon 8 Elite processors.