Google’s Android Oreo finally began rolling out this week for owners of 2017’s top-rated smartphones; the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus. And about time too!
Considering that’s six months after Google released v8.0, those with older Samsung flagships are probably bereft of hope their handsets would ever see the new lick of paint.
However, in a move that’s taken us a little by surprise, Samsung appears to be prepping Oreo for 2015’s Galaxy S6 and Note 5 ranges.
Related: Galaxy S9 latest
No it isn’t April 1 and, despite the temptation sometimes, we haven’t morphed into tech’s version of The Onion. This is actually happening.
The surprising news comes via T-Mobile in the United States. The network’s support pages for S6, S6 Edge and Note 5 development say: “Phase: Complete: Version 8.0 Oreo.”
This means, in the network’s words: “T-Mobile and the device manufacturer have agreed to support a new software update.” (via Neowin). There’s no news yet on when it might actually roll out, mind.
Will anyone else get it?
Whether other networks in the US and other territories will follow suit remains to be seen, but T-Mobile is carrying the flag here for legacy device owners.
We’d suggest, at the very least, those in possession of unlocked S6 and Note 5 devices will get the update. Whether the networks can be bothered to put the work into updating the legacy devices is a judgement for another time.
At least we know for sure Samsung itself is committed to freshening up these soon-to-be three year old handsets, which is a welcome change of pace for the firm that isn’t exactly renowned for its diligence in these matters.
Would Android 8.0 encourage you to hold on to your old Samsung phone for a little bit longer? Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
