LG Phone No More Updates? What to Do
If you own an LG smartphone, the answer is yes: it is time to replace it if you want to keep receiving security updates, because LG officially ended its mobile phone business in 2021 and stopped releasing software updates for most models shortly after. However, you don’t have to rush out today—your phone will still work, but it will become increasingly vulnerable to security threats and incompatible with newer apps. This article explains exactly what “no more updates� means for your LG phone, how long you can safely keep using it, and what your best replacement options are.
Why LG Stopped Updates
LG announced in April 2021 that it was shutting down its smartphone division, and the last LG phones (like the LG Wing and Velvet) were released that year. The company promised “up to three years� of software updates for some 2020 and 2021 flagships, but that promise ended in 2023 for most models. By 2024, virtually all LG phones have stopped receiving both Android version upgrades and monthly security patches. LG’s decision was driven by years of financial losses in the mobile market, not by a technical failure of the phones themselves.
What “No More Updates� Actually Means
When a phone stops receiving updates, it doesn’t stop working overnight. But there are real consequences:
- Security vulnerabilities: New malware and exploits are discovered constantly. Without patches, your phone remains exposed to known holes that hackers can exploit.
- App compatibility: Apps like banking, messaging, and even Google’s own apps gradually raise their minimum Android version. An LG phone stuck on Android 11 or 12 will eventually be unable to install or update those apps.
- No new features: You won’t get any new Android versions, so you miss out on privacy improvements, UI changes, and performance enhancements.
- Wear and tear: Even if software were perfect, batteries degrade and hardware fails. After 3–4 years, a phone is nearing the end of its practical life anyway.
How Long Can You Keep Using It?
There’s no hard cutoff date. You can keep using an LG phone as long as it turns on and meets your needs. However, security experts generally recommend replacing a phone that no longer receives security updates, especially if you use it for banking, shopping, or work. For most people, the practical limit is 1–2 years after the last update, because that’s when popular apps start dropping support. For example, many apps now require Android 10 or higher, and that requirement will move to Android 12 or 13 within the next few years.
What to Do Before You Replace It
If you decide to replace your LG phone, take these steps to protect your data:
- Back up everything: Use Google One or LG’s backup tool to save photos, contacts, messages, and app data to the cloud or a computer.
- Transfer your data: When you get a new phone, use the built-in transfer tool (like Google’s “Switch to Android� or Samsung Smart Switch) to move everything over.
- Sign out and factory reset: Before selling or recycling your LG, sign out of all accounts (especially Google and any banking apps), then do a factory reset to wipe personal data.
- Check for trade-in offers: Many carriers and manufacturers offer trade-in credits for old phones, even ones that are no longer supported.
How to Choose a Replacement
When picking a new phone, focus on these factors:
- Update policy: Look for a phone that promises at least 3–4 years of security updates. Samsung and Google are the best in this regard; Apple also provides long support for iPhones.
- Budget: You don’t need a flagship. Mid-range phones from Google (Pixel “a� series) or Samsung (Galaxy A series) offer good performance and long updates at a lower price.
- Size and features: If you loved LG’s headphone jack or microSD slot, check that the new phone has them—many flagships have dropped both.
- Carrier compatibility: Make sure the phone works on your carrier’s network, especially if you’re on a smaller carrier that uses different bands.
Can You Install Custom ROMs?
If you’re technically inclined, you can install a custom ROM like LineageOS on some LG phones to get newer Android versions and security patches. This can extend the life of your device, but it has downsides: it voids any remaining warranty, can be tricky to install, and may break some features like the camera or NFC. Also, not all LG models have official LineageOS support. For most users, this isn’t worth the effort, but it’s an option for hobbyists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my LG phone stop working completely?
No, it will keep functioning as long as the hardware works. But over time, apps will stop updating, and you may not be able to install new ones. The phone won’t suddenly brick, but it will become less useful.
Can I still use banking apps on my LG phone?
Yes, but it’s risky. Banking apps require a secure environment, and without security updates, your phone is more vulnerable to malware. If you must use banking apps, avoid clicking suspicious links and consider using a more secure device.
Is it safe to sell my LG phone?
Yes, if you factory reset it first. This wipes your personal data, but note that some data might be recoverable with forensic tools, so it’s best to also encrypt the device before resetting (if the option exists).
What’s the best budget phone with long updates?
The Google Pixel 7a and Samsung Galaxy A54 are good choices, with 3–5 years of security updates. Prices vary, but they’re generally more affordable than flagships.
Can I get updates from LG’s website?
No, LG has stopped providing updates for its phones. The last updates were pushed over the air (OTA) in 2023. There’s no official way to get newer versions.
Should I replace my LG phone now or wait?
If you’re comfortable with the risks and your phone still works, you can wait a few months. But if you rely on your phone for sensitive tasks, it’s better to replace it sooner rather than later.
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