Software updates typically take two to five years, depending on the smartphone or tablet purchase. Germany is now pushing for seven years of support, including access to spare parts.
As reported by Heise Online, the federal government is negotiating with the European Commission for a minimum period of seven years for compatibility with Android and iOS devices. This would require manufacturers to continue providing security updates for seven years after the release of each device, as well as having access to aftermarket parts. It is currently estimated that the Commission is considering extending the assistance to five years, with a maximum of five days for the delivery of spare parts to customers.
In última instancia, el soporte tendría que ampliarse en todos los países de la Unión Europea, lo que plantea un nuevo desafío para los fabricantes no solo para cuidar los dispositivos durante más tiempo en Europa, sino también para producir y almacenar repuestos que se adapten a its needs. It is not known what the consequences would be, but it could be higher prices for phones and tablets and the introduction of fewer models to reduce the production of necessary spare parts.
So it’s no wonder the industry is fighting back. As 9To5Google reports, the DigitalEurope interest group (Apple, Google, and Samsung are members of it) is trying to reduce support needs to three years of security updates and only require battery and power replacement. screen.
Whatever the end result, manufacturers must prepare for 2023 when the new rules take effect. With every print, device makers have to prepare for much longer support cycles, which is certainly good for consumers and the environment.
