Begin with an exact identity
Write down the marketed name, model code, sales region, and carrier before comparing support promises. A family announcement may cover several devices, while the model sold by a carrier can follow a different rollout path. Reject listings that cannot provide enough identity information to match an official source.
Separate every lifecycle promise
Compare major OS upgrades, security updates, end of sale, parts availability, and cloud-service dependence as different facts. Convert a duration into a calendar date only when the policy names a start event; preserve the calculation and label it policy-derived rather than official.
Value the remaining window
A seven-year promise made several years ago is not seven years remaining. Compare the support end date with today, then consider whether the device will still be supported through the time you expect to own it, resell it, or hand it down.
Check repair evidence in the same market
Parts and service policies can begin from the last sale date and differ by jurisdiction. EU energy labels and EPREL records add model-specific battery and repair information for covered products, but scores from one scheme should not be compared with another scheme as if their scales were identical.
Make a documented decision
Save the source links and check dates used for the purchase. Prefer the exact model with stronger primary evidence when two phones have similar remaining support. Recheck the record before checkout because update scope, sales status, and repair programs can change.
Primary sources
Google Pixel Help · checked 2026-09-04
Samsung Mobile Security · checked 2026-09-04
European Commission · checked 2026-09-04
European Product Registry for Energy Labelling · checked 2026-09-04
Device support and safety information can change. Recheck the linked manufacturer and regulator evidence before making a purchase or safety decision.