Samsung Galaxy S21 Series Update Changes: What You Need to Know
Samsung recently announced changes to its software update schedule for the Galaxy S21 series, impacting how often these phones receive security updates. This article clarifies what these changes mean for Galaxy S21 owners.
The End of Monthly Updates for Galaxy S21
Samsung has quietly announced a reduction in the frequency of software updates for its Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra phones. While these phones were promised four years of major software updates, the monthly security updates are ending. Instead, they’ll now receive updates only every three months (quarterly).
This shift isn’t unexpected. While the newer Galaxy S25 series boasts an impressive seven years of updates, starting with monthly security patches, Samsung’s update policy generally sees a decrease in update frequency after a certain period for older models.
What This Means for You
This change means you will receive security updates less frequently. Instead of a monthly patch addressing newly discovered vulnerabilities, you will get these updates every three months. This could potentially increase the risk of your phone being susceptible to security threats for a longer period. While the four years of major software updates (OS upgrades) still stands for the Galaxy S21 series, this new quarterly update schedule for security patches is significantly different from the monthly frequency initially expected.
Which Phones are Still Getting Monthly Updates?
Not all Samsung devices are affected by this change. Some models continue to receive monthly updates. Here’s the breakdown:
- Galaxy S21 FE: Because it launched later than the standard S21 models, the Fan Edition (FE) still continues to receive monthly security updates.
- Other Eligible Devices: Many other Samsung devices, including newer foldable phones and select A series devices, continue to receive monthly updates. This includes the following:
- Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G
- Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G
- Galaxy Z Fold 4
- Galaxy Z Flip 4
- Galaxy Z Fold 5
- Galaxy Z Flip 5
- Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Galaxy Z Flip 6
- W23
- W23 Flip
- W24
- W24 Flip
- W25
- W25 Flip
- Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition and Enterprise Models
- Galaxy A53 5G (and potentially other A-series models; check Samsung’s official website for the latest information)
- Samsung Wearables: Samsung is also committed to updating its wearable devices. Monthly or more frequent updates can be expected for the following:
- Galaxy Watch 4
- Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
- Galaxy Watch 5
- Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
- Galaxy Watch 6
- Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
- Galaxy Watch FE
- Galaxy Watch 7
- Galaxy Watch Ultra
Understanding Samsung’s Update Policy
Samsung, like other phone manufacturers, aims to provide regular updates to maintain device security. However, the resources required for maintaining and providing updates for various devices across different generations vary greatly. This means that as new devices are released, older models might see a decrease in the frequency of updates from monthly to quarterly or even bi-annually.
The Future for Galaxy S21 Owners
While the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra are shifting to quarterly security updates, they’re still expected to receive at least the One UI 7 update, along with any associated feature enhancements, before their four-year software support period ends, likely sometime in early 2026. However, it’s less likely that these phones will receive any subsequent major Android OS updates.
Staying Safe
Even with a reduced update frequency, it’s crucial to install all available updates promptly. These updates contain critical security patches and improve the overall performance and stability of your phone. Always make sure your device is updated to the latest firmware versions available.
Where to Find More Information
For the most up-to-date information on Samsung device update schedules, refer to Samsung’s official website and support documentation. You can also find detailed information through reliable technology news sites, including the following link: https://security.samsungmobile.com/workScope.smsb and https://9to5google.com/2025/02/03/samsung-galaxy-s21-monthly-updates-end/
Remember to always verify information from official sources. The information in this article is intended for informational purposes and is based on publicly available information at the time of writing. Samsung’s update policies can change.
