Here’s why smartphone software updates matter

How long can you stay without looking at your smartphone screens? The honest answer for most of us would be a few seconds or a few minutes at max. If one follows it up with when was the last time any of us got our phone software updated, we would struggle to remember or recall promptly selecting the remind me later option.

The reluctance is rooted in an unwillingness to compromise on screen time and, more importantly, a lack of understanding of the importance of timely updates. However, we need to be more aware of the vulnerabilities that come with failing to keep up, more so in the post-pandemic era: One where user dependence on smartphones has increased and yet, people wish to continue with their phones for longer.

According to Counterpoint Research trust rankings report release last year, with smartphones being devices that are always-on and connected, they are more vulnerable to cyberattacks which are growing both in frequency and severity. This makes software and security updates for Android smartphones critical. According to Counterpoint, HMD Global was, for the second consecutive year, the fastest when it comes to updates, covering 94 per cent of the portfolio and demonstrating a commitment to consistent software updates, including for entry-level devices.

Smooth functioning, hassle-free user experience, better security and longevity are why users need to constantly update the operating systems frequently.

Top 3 reasons why people should update their smartphones’ software

Fixing bugs: Ever found the camera switching off when you had just found the perfect shot or certain apps crashing each time you open them or the screen lock taking longer than usual to unlock. This truly can impact your experience with the device. Additionally, the older a phone gets, the more problems arise if the Android software is not consistently updated. A bug shows a mistake, failure, or disappointment in the application or its integration with the fabricated operating system that produces unforeseen results.

Security: This perhaps is the most crucial reason why we should be more punctual with our software updates. It is easy to fall prey to financial fraud in an interconnected world. There have been instances where data has been stolen from smartphones with unwitting help from victims, thus compromising privacy. Hackers identify the vulnerability and take advantage of it by writing codes which are then packaged into malicious software or malware. Updates plug the security holes and keep hackers at bay.

Longevity: According to the latest consumer research from HMD, the home of Nokia phones, found that 71 per cent of people in the UAE want to keep their phones for longer. Putting off software updates reduces the lifespan of smartphone devices while also impacting negatively the overall experience.

Read: Global smartphone sales grew 10.8% in second quarter of 2021: Gartner

In other words, if you have a “love it, trust it, keep it” relationship with your phone, you should look for brands that feel the same way. Somewhat surprisingly, few manufacturers have realise the importance of OS updates.

Understanding software vulnerabilities is imperative and updates should no longer be considered a necessary evil or something to be done at leisure. With 5G adoption kicking off, we are moving towards a future where everything — from cars to household appliances — will be connected and smartphones will be the nerve centre of life. Any lapse can extract a heavy toll. We need to change our user behaviour now.

Sanmeet Singh Kochhar is the vice president for HMD Global MENA and India