We’ve all been there. You pick up your phone, see a notification about an update, and think, “I’ll get to that later.” But what if I told you that skipping those updates could cost you much more than just a slow phone? In a recent tragedy in Australia, an unsupported phone was linked to a death—an outcome that could have been avoided with a simple update.
The Tragic Incident Involving an Unsupported Phone
A recent case in Australia has served as a grim reminder of why keeping your phone up-to-date is more important than we realize. A person in need of urgent medical assistance was unable to dial 000 (the Australian equivalent of 911) due to their Samsung Galaxy phone being unsupported, reports The Register. It didn’t matter that the phone was capable of making calls—without recent security updates, the device failed to connect to emergency services. By the time the person was able to dial emergency services from another device, it was too late.
This isn’t just a one-off, and the problem isn’t limited to a single phone model. Samsung Galaxy devices, particularly older models like the Galaxy S6 and S7, have been flagged for this exact issue. These phones stopped receiving security updates, which meant they couldn’t make critical calls in emergency situations. The impact of this goes beyond just one individual; there are an estimated 50,000 unsupported devices in Australia alone that could face similar issues.
Why Updates Matter
Now, you might be thinking, “That’s just one case; my phone is fine.” But here’s the thing—security updates are designed to fix bugs, patch vulnerabilities, and improve the overall functionality of your device. These updates aren’t just about adding new features or making your phone look cooler; they’re about ensuring that essential services, like emergency calling, continue to work when you need them most.
In a world where we rely on our phones for nearly everything, from communication to healthcare, an outdated phone isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a risk. If your phone can’t make an emergency call, you’re in trouble. Simple as that.
What Can You Do?
So, what’s the takeaway here? First, don’t ignore those update notifications. They may seem like a hassle, but they’re there for a reason. Whether you’re using an Android or an iPhone, make sure you’re on the latest software. If you’re using an older device, check if it still receives updates. If it doesn’t, it may be time for an upgrade.
Phones are supposed to help us, not put us in danger. It’s easy to forget, but those updates could be the difference between life and death. Don’t skip them.
