I don't want to start a war but I think the whole monthly security updates thing is a bit overhyped. Yes, it would be lovely to have the latest updates as fast as possible to be as secure as you can be. However, how many have ever been affected by not getting a timely security update? Meaning you had some malicious attack to your device that you would not have gotten had you gotten the updates faster. I think the whole thing is just another part of the whole "gotta have it now" mentality of the world nowadays. That said, I understand the frustration but it doesn't influence my decision one iota whether or not to purchase a device, well unless they are giving updates 6+ months behind others or something really crazy.
Now, if we are talking updates to functionality and similar, then I'm with you (newest Android etc...). I want it now!
Exactly this. If you've read any of my posts in the past about security/software updates, I say similar things.
With regards to security patches, yes, of course it'd be great and safer if OEMs kept up (especially if they've made a promise to) but in general, it simply isn't a dealbreaker. Common sense will prevent the vast majority of malware or other security concerns.
And with regards to software updates, those, too, aren't a dealbreaker if they don't come right away. In fact, I think day-one updates are more bragging right than practicality. Especially considering early round bugs. I do not want bugs, small or big, to disrupt my day-to-day use of my smartphone that is otherwise running in tip-top shape just to say I got day-one updates.
Also, I understand the Android landscape, and in fact, respect it because we wouldn't have so many features pushed by Android skins if it weren't for the way things work on the Android side. So if OEMs need some time to adapt the latest software, so be it. I understand. Just do it in a reasonable amount of time and work out all the early bugs/kinks. I care about getting it right far more than getting it right away. Something like 3 months-ish, I think, is fair.
Besides, these days, Android is already so stable, fast, and feature-rich that each software update gets less and less necessary. Not to mention Google's core apps update on their own from the Play Store -- something I really like since it means my apps are getting better year round instead of in one big lump sum update.
Having said all that...
the real problem here is Samsung's promise. If they make a promise, they should keep it. Plain and simple.
That's what I have a problem with.
I understand timely updates are important to a lot of people. It is one of the few remaining areas for Samsung to set straight.
