Xiaomi offers update support up to Android 19 for its $100 phone

We have been tracking Xiaomi’s software trajectory for years, and usually, the logic is simple: the more you pay, the longer you stay relevant. However, the latest data regarding the REDMI 15 series has left us completely baffled by a policy shift that feels like a step backward for the main lineup.

I recently looked into the official update schedules, and the results are jarring for anyone planning to pick up the standard Redmi 15. While the industry is moving toward longer support, Xiaomi has surprisingly slashed the longevity of its core budget model while giving its “cheaper” sibling the flagship treatment.

TL;DR: The Update Breakdown

• Redmi 15/15 5G: Only 2 years of Android updates (up to Android 17) and 4 years of security patches.
• Redmi 15C: A massive 4 years of Android updates (up to Android 19) and 6 years of security patches.
• Pricing Twist: The Redmi 15C starts at roughly $100 (approx. 4,327 TL), making it better value for long-term use.
• EOL Warning: The Redmi 15 will hit its End-of-Life (EOL) status as early as 2029, much sooner than expected.

Xiaomi ends Redmi 15 support earlier than expected: Only 2 Android updates

The Redmi 15 and Redmi 15 5G launched with Android 15 and were initially whispered to have much longer support. Instead, Xiaomi has confirmed they will only see Android 16 and Android 17. For a phone released in late 2025, reaching EOL by late 2029 feels incredibly restrictive.

We noticed that these devices are scheduled for security updates only every 90 days. This quarterly cycle is standard for budget tiers, but the cutoff at Android 17 means this phone will effectively be “old news” by next year. It’s a bitter pill to swallow for master mechanics or tech enthusiasts who need their tools to last.

The $100 Miracle: Redmi 15C Update Policy

The real shocker comes when we look at the Redmi 15C and Redmi 15C 5G. Despite being positioned as lower-tier devices, they are receiving a “Flagship-tier” update promise. These $100 phones will be supported all the way to Android 19 with security patches lasting until October 2031.

What’s next for budget buyers?

If you are looking for a secondary device or a reliable daily driver that won’t break the bank, the Redmi 15C is the clear winner here. It is rare to see a company offer 4 major Android updates on a $100 handset, especially when the more expensive “standard” model is left in the dust.

We suspect this might be due to the specific chipsets used in the Redmi 15C having better long-term vendor support, but for the end consumer, the “why” matters less than the “what.” What you get is a phone that lasts two years longer for less money.