How often do mobile operating systems receive updates ?

Mobile operating systems receive updates on a regular basis, which can vary depending on the manufacturer and the version of the operating system. Major updates, such as moving from one version to another (e.g., Android 9 to Android 10), typically happen once a year and bring significant changes, new features, and improvements to the overall user experience. Security updates and patches are released more frequently to fix known vulnerabilities and protect users from potential threats. Smaller feature updates and improvements can also be expected throughout the year, including bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features that don't warrant a full version change.
How often do mobile operating systems receive updates

Frequency of Mobile Operating System Updates

Mobile operating systems receive updates on a regular basis, which can vary depending on the manufacturer and the version of the operating system. Here are some general guidelines:

Major Updates

Major updates, such as moving from one version to another (e.g., Android 9 to Android 10), typically happen once a year. These updates usually bring significant changes, new features, and improvements to the overall user experience.

Examples:

  • Android: Google releases a major update to its Android operating system every year, usually in the fall. For example, Android 10 was released in September 2019, and Android 11 followed in September 2020.
  • iOS: Apple also follows a similar pattern with its iOS updates, releasing a major update annually. iOS 14 was released in September 2020, and iOS 15 followed in September 2021.

Security Updates and Patches

In addition to major updates, mobile operating systems also receive security updates and patches more frequently. These updates aim to fix known vulnerabilities and protect users from potential threats.

Examples:

  • Android: Security updates for Android devices can be released monthly or even more frequently if needed. Manufacturers like Samsung and Google often provide these updates directly to their devices.
  • iOS: Apple is known for its frequent security updates, sometimes releasing them multiple times per month. These updates are designed to address any security issues that may arise.

Feature Updates and Improvements

Aside from major updates and security patches, mobile operating systems may also receive smaller feature updates and improvements throughout the year. These updates can include bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features that don't warrant a full version change.

Examples:

  • Android: Google occasionally releases smaller feature updates for its Pixel devices under the "Feature Drop" initiative. These updates introduce new features and improvements without changing the Android version number.
  • iOS: Apple occasionally releases software updates for its iOS devices that focus on specific features or improvements. For example, iOS 14.5 introduced new privacy features and updated emojis.

In summary, mobile operating systems receive updates on a regular basis, with major updates happening once a year and security updates being released more frequently. Additionally, smaller feature updates and improvements can be expected throughout the year.