SAMSUNG’S GALAXY Z FOLD 2, THE FOLDABLE PHONE FROM 2020, IS NO LONGER RECEIVING SOFTWARE UPDATES.

Samsung has officially ended software support for its Galaxy Z Fold 2, a four-year-old foldable phone that originally retailed for a hefty $1,800. This decision has sparked debate about planned obsolescence in the tech industry and left many owners of the once-flagship device in a precarious position.

The Galaxy Z Fold 2, launched in 2020, was a groundbreaking device for its time, offering a large folding display and powerful hardware. However, its exclusion from a recent list of Samsung devices receiving future updates signifies the end of its software support.

While Samsung promises four years of software updates and five years of security updates for new phones, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 has reached the end of its support cycle. This abrupt end of support, particularly for a device that was once a premium offering, has raised eyebrows among tech enthusiasts.

Why the Galaxy Z Fold 2 End of Support?

Several factors could be contributing to Samsung’s decision. The rapid pace of innovation in the foldable phone market, with increased competition from companies like Google and OnePlus, could be driving the company to focus on newer models. Additionally, the Galaxy Z Fold 2 might face compatibility issues with the latest AI features that both Samsung and Google are actively pushing in their devices.

The Concerns:

The most concerning aspect of this decision is the lack of security updates. This leaves the Galaxy Z Fold 2 vulnerable to potential threats, making it a risky device to use without proper security measures.

The end of support also raises questions about planned obsolescence, a practice where companies intentionally limit the lifespan of their products to encourage consumers to upgrade more frequently. This can be a costly practice for consumers and contributes to the growing problem of electronic waste.

What Now?

Owners of the Galaxy Z Fold 2 are now faced with a difficult decision. While the device still offers impressive hardware, the lack of software and security updates poses a significant risk. Upgrading to a newer model, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 6, might be the most prudent option to ensure security and access to the latest features.

This situation highlights the importance of considering a device’s long-term support when making a purchase. It also raises concerns about the growing trend of planned obsolescence in the tech industry, a trend that can ultimately harm both consumers and the environment.

Source: Android Police