And get no upgrade after 19
Months? Contract is for 24 month and your phone obsolete in 19 months?
While I think the 18 month window is weird, arbitrary, and lame (not to mention it undermines the whole idea that Android can be run even with 512MB RAM), it ultimately, isn't that big of a deal.
Why? Because...
1) 18 month support is still pretty damn good, second only to Apple who may support their devices longer, but doesn't give you every feature (sometimes doesn't give you the main feature) of the latest OS-es. Take that for what you will.
2) But more importantly, it's not a big deal because Google updates their individual core apps and frameworks independently. And they do this throughout the year, multiple times. This also extends to non-Nexus devices, too. I much prefer this model since it means things get improved and features get added much quicker, instead of waiting annually for it to come in an OS update. And even after waiting a year for Apple, you may not get the feature/updates you want -- I'm looking at you, iOS keyboard. It's been years since the iOS keyboard has been updated in any substantial way. For comparison's sake, how many times has the Google Keyboard been updated since its release into the Play Store this past year? I can recall at least three or so updates -- with another one coming soon along with Kit Kat.
In other words, the 18 month window of support really shouldn't be a deal breaker. Especially when you consider the only company that supports devices longer is Apple, but at a price...
iPhone 4S, but does not support:
Filters in Camera app
AirDrop
iPhone 4, but does not support:
All items from iPhone 4S, plus
Panoramic photos
Siri
Third-Generation iPad, but does not support:
Filters in Camera app
Panoramic photos
AirDrop
iPad 2, but does not support:
All items from 3rd Gen. iPad, plus
Filters in Photos app
Square photos and videos
Siri
What might get left out in the iPhone 5 or 5c when iOS 8 comes next year?
Last edited: