By Jarren Ringle
Many tech devices, like our computers, smartphones, and tablets, have an end-of-life. That essentially means the device will no longer be supported by the manufacturer. It doesn’t mean it will stop working, but it does mean it may not work safely. When a device is not being updated, it can be susceptible to compromise, making it less safe to use for banking, financial transactions, health portals, government websites, etc.
It can be confusing. Sometimes we think that because the device is “old,” it is out of date, and we must replace it. That isn’t necessarily true. Just because the model of the smartphone, tablet, or computer is no longer sold doesn’t mean it has reached the end of its life.
Other times, the device still works, so we think it’s fine to use, and it may not be. The important thing is that the device is getting “updates”.
One of the places I look at for end-of-life information is a website called endoflife.date. The web address is https://endoflife.date/. Don’t be overwhelmed when you look there because it includes information for many kinds of tech. The column on the left side of the website home page is organized by the manufacturer. That is the easiest way to find your device. An iPhone is listed under Apple. An Android phone is listed by the manufacturer, such as Samsung, Google, etc.
Without going into too much detail, there is a difference in the data shown between an Apple device and an Android OS device. An Apple iPhone will list the OS version supported and whether the device is supported for updates. When the supported column shows a red box and No, the device is no longer getting security updates.
The data shown for an Android phone, like a Samsung Galaxy, is different from that of an iPhone. The Samsung Galaxy entry will show two columns of dates. The first is the support date for the Android OS, and the second is the Samsung manufacturer’s update date. Most of the time, the two dates are the same, but the older the phone, the more likely the dates are not the same.
Doing a web search may also tell you if the tech will be getting security updates. Sometimes the manufacturer’s website will tell you. You can also look in the settings app and see when it last got an update. If the last update is more than a year old and won’t update, the device is out of date and should be replaced.
The bottom line is we should keep our devices updated. A device that isn’t getting updates presents a risk we should avoid.
Jarren Ringle is a member of SourcePoint and a volunteer instructor. SourcePointers come to Jarren for tutelage on their tablets, laptops, and the most popular of all devices – cell phones. He teaches various technology classes throughout the year including one-on-one sessions and group classes. Jarren also volunteers at the Delaware County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. With many years of project management experience in various technology fields, he enjoys helping others with technology.
Technology 1:1 Assistance: Jarren Ringle provides guidance on technology in a 45-minute time slot. Do you have questions regarding a cell phone, PC, laptop or tablet? Share what the device is and what your question is upon registration so that Jarren can be better prepared to help. >> Schedule your 1:1