Android M will reportedly feature clarified Nexus update guarantee

Despite only debuting Android Lollipop last year, all signs point to the launch of Android M at Google I/O later this week, with a full release likely sometime in the fall. We still don’t know a ton about what to expect from Android M other than hints of improved voice control, enterprise security, and integrated fingerprint authentication. According to a new report, Android M may also offer more clarified update and support terms for Nexus devices.

Right now, the general policy is that after 18 months of updates, a Nexus device is no longer promised updates. We’ve seen some devices extend past this window, however, and often times because an update is needed to improve overall device security and performance. Citing “trusted sources”, Android Police claims that Android M will bring hard cut-off dates for support.

Under the new policy, all Nexus devices will get major system updates for two years and security patches for three years from an OS release date. Furthermore, you can expect security patches to be guaranteed for at least 18 months from the time you purchase your device from the Google store.

The new Android M policy will not only apply to upcoming Nexus products, but the existing line-up as well. From the sounds of it, that means devices like the Nexus 4, Nexus 7 (2012), and Nexus 10 will be left out of the Android M party but should still see security updates for a little while longer. It also means that newer offerings like the Nexus 5 are in the clear for Android M and should have security patches at least into sometime in 2016.

As for when Google might announce the new policy changes? Reportedly it will happen sometime before the final commercial arrival of Android M, though it is possible Google could reveal the news on stage this week.