Samsung has announced a change in its update schedule for the Galaxy S21 series, which includes the S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra models. These devices will no longer receive monthly security updates and will instead be shifted to a quarterly update cycle.
Why did Samsung go ahead with this much cost cutting on Galaxy S25 Ultra
– Older gen display
– glued on camera rings
– SPen without bluetooth
– In-box cable that does not support Ultra fast chargingand many more..
Any theories for this??
— Yogesh Brar (@heyitsyogesh) February 3, 2025
This means that owners of these smartphones can expect to receive updates only four times a year going forward.
The decision comes four years after the debut of the Galaxy S21 series.
Finally!!
Galaxy S24's One UI 6.1-based January update is live in Europe 🇪🇺
Build Version: S928BXXU4AYA5/ S928BOXM4AYA5/S928BXXU4AYA5
Repost pic.twitter.com/4CNzhA4mBy
— Tarun Vats (@tarunvats33) February 5, 2025
However, the Galaxy S21 FE model will continue to receive monthly updates for the time being due to its later release date.
Samsung adjusts Galaxy S21 updates
Galaxy S25: New One UI 7 test build has been updated on the server.
AYB1 (Feb built date)
Build Version: S938BXXU1AYB1/S938BOXM1AYB1/S938BXXU1AYB1 pic.twitter.com/APvYloBrIr— Tarun Vats (@tarunvats33) February 5, 2025
This change in update frequency is part of Samsung’s typical approach to device support, where updates become less frequent as devices age. Despite the reduced frequency, Samsung has assured users that the Galaxy S21 series will still receive the necessary software and security support. These models are expected to receive the upcoming Android 15-based update, although this will likely be their final major OS upgrade.
Security updates for the Galaxy S21 series are projected to continue through January or February 2026. Samsung has recently committed to supporting its Android flagships with up to seven years of Android OS and security updates, demonstrating the company’s dedication to prolonged device support. While some users may find the shift to quarterly updates disappointing, it is a common practice in the smartphone industry as devices age and fewer users continue to own them.
