The FTC and FCC both want to know why Android manufacturers are so slow with updates

As you probably very well know, it takes a while for non-Nexus Android handsets to receive any sort of software updates. Once Google releases a new patch, it's primed and ready for its Nexus smartphones worldwide, and is typically pushed out within days, however, any other manufacturers first hold the update for evaluation and testing for their own devices. Then, updates for carrier-issued handsets need to be assessed by the network providers, and only then can they be pushed to the end users.

Naturally, this system leads to a clog and huge delays in the update pipeline. While Google is busy issuing monthly security updates for the Android OS, other manufacturers' smartphones will often skip a patch or two while catching up, often getting updated with a version that is soon to be obsolete.

The Federal Trade Commission and Federal Communications Commision have taken note of said problem and have issued an inquiry to eight different device manufacturers, asking for insight on what processes they use to review and release the security patches for smartphones, tablets, and other mobile gadgets. It is unclear how the commissions are planning to proceed after they get their answers, but, at least for now, every non-stock Android user that is a bit bitter about slow updates can feel justified, as not one but two different regulatory organizations have officially asked the question "Hey! What's taking so long?".

The motivation behind the FTC and FCC's inquiry is a growing concern for user security. As people use their mobile Internet for more and more tasks, payments and personal data submissions included, malware and vulnerability threats become more and more bothersome.