diff --git a/update_attempter.h b/update_attempter.h
index 311a918..c83f121 100644
--- a/update_attempter.h
+++ b/update_attempter.h
@@ -202,6 +202,11 @@
   // This will return an empty string otherwise.
   std::string const& GetPrevVersion() const { return prev_version_; }
 
+  // Returns the nubmer of consecutive failed update checks.
+  virtual unsigned int consecutive_failed_update_checks() const {
+    return consecutive_failed_update_checks_;
+  }
+
  private:
   // Update server URL for automated lab test.
   static const char* const kTestUpdateUrl;
@@ -457,6 +462,10 @@
   // ignored (nor is it being written), which is useful for testing situations.
   std::string update_completed_marker_;
 
+  // The number of consecutive failed update checks. Needed for calculating the
+  // next update check interval.
+  unsigned int consecutive_failed_update_checks_ = 0;
+
   DISALLOW_COPY_AND_ASSIGN(UpdateAttempter);
 };