Samsung Tizen Update Policy Extends Smart TV Support to Seven Years

Samsung announced that every smart TV released in 2024 or later will receive seven years of software updates for its Linux-based Tizen operating system. The policy, disclosed in early 2024, also covers select 2023 models. A 2024-model TV can expect firmware and app updates through at least 2031. Older units will not receive major Tizen releases but may receive occasional maintenance or security patches.

LG’s Four-Year webOS Re:New Program

LG launched the webOS Re:New program in 2024, guaranteeing four years of updates for 2022-onward models. The program introduces a one-year lag compared to the newest webOS release on the latest TVs. For example, webOS 26 debuted with 2026 models and reached 2025 models a year later.

Sony’s Model-Specific Support Windows

Sony does not publish a blanket update period. Instead, each model’s support end date is listed individually. The 2025 Sony Bravia K-65XR80M2 OLED shows an end-of-life date of April 2029, while the Bravia 2 II K-65S25VM2 is slated for security updates until June 2030. Sony’s post-2021 TVs run Google TV, earlier models ran Android TV.

TCL’s Two-Year Security Update Window

TCL’s Software Security page states that it typically provides security updates for at least two years after a device’s first shipment. The statement does not explicitly mention TVs, and the company’s TV lineup runs on Google TV, Android TV, or Roku TV.

Regional Variations: Hisense VIDAA OS

In Europe, most Hisense TVs use the proprietary VIDAA OS. Since 2025, Hisense has pledged support for up to eight years on these models. In the U.S., many Hisense units ship with Android TV, Fire TV, Google TV, or Roku TV, leaving long-term support to the underlying OS vendor.

Roku-Branded Smart TVs

Roku’s own Pro, Plus, and Select Series TVs lack a fixed support period. The first Roku-branded TV appeared in 2023, so a pattern has not yet emerged. Roku frequently pushes updates, suggesting a potentially healthy update lifespan, but the company does not publish end-of-life dates.

Low-Cost Brands: Vizio and Insignia

Vizio runs its own Vizio OS, but the source material does not detail its support policy. Insignia’s policy is likewise unspecified.

Implications for Consumers

Consumers purchasing a 2024 Samsung TV can anticipate a seven-year update horizon, reducing the risk of software obsolescence. LG’s four-year window offers a shorter but still substantial period. Sony and TCL users face variable support timelines, potentially exposing them to earlier end-of-life dates. Regional differences, such as Hisense’s eight-year European promise, further complicate the landscape.

What to Watch Next

Manufacturers may standardize support periods as security concerns grow. Tracking the rollout of Samsung’s seven-year policy across its product lines will reveal whether the commitment extends to mid-range models. Monitoring Sony’s and TCL’s support announcements will clarify whether they adopt longer windows in response to consumer pressure.

Conclusion

Samsung’s seven-year Tizen update policy sets a new industry benchmark for long-term software support. LG, Sony, TCL, and other OEMs follow varied, often shorter, or undefined schedules. Regional commitments, such as Hisense’s eight-year European promise, add another layer of complexity for global consumers.

Related coverage

Explore more on this topic