topic How long can we expect to get new OS versions? in Galaxy S25

How long can we expect to get new OS versions?

Blu-Ray — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:05:55 GMT

I saw today where the Galaxy S21 will no longer get new versions of One UI. I thought we were guaranteed 7 years of OS updates? It's only be 5 years since the S21 was released.

So how long can we expect to get new OS versions on a Galaxy device? Is it 7, or is it only 5? Was it at one time only 5 guaranteed and now it's 7?

Re: How long can we expect to get new OS versions?

Mujibar — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:11:49 GMT

The 7-year support cycle only started with the S24 series. Prior to that, it was 3 or 4 years of OS updates (plus another year of security updates), depending on the device series.

Re: Re: How long can we expect to get new OS versions?

Blu-Ray — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:12:03 GMT

Thank you!

Re: Re: Re: How long can we expect to get new OS versions?

Mujibar — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:12:25 GMT

You're welcome

Re: How long can we expect to get new OS versions?

Tom6068 — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:09:35 GMT

The S21-S23 only get 4 years of Android OS upgrades & 5 years of security support. So the S21 ended with UI 7. Android 15 as it started with Android 11. The S21 also has now ended security support.

Re: How long can we expect to get new OS versions?

celan_ — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:44:52 GMT

Samsung: promises 4 major updates for S21

Samsung: releases those 4 major updates

People: complain

Re: Re: How long can we expect to get new OS versions?

Blu-Ray — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:01:46 GMT

I'm not complaining. I have an s25+ and came from Apple February 2025. I am use to Apple having LONG support cycles. I thought we were supposed to get about the same support cycle as Apple. So color me confused when I see an older flagship not getting 7 years. I mean I'll probably upgrade before then but would be nice to have the option.

Oh and I've been avoiding Samsung Tablets as I still have a bad taste in my mouth from the flagship I bought brand new years ago which they ended support for a year later. So yeah, I have those concerns as well.

Re: How long can we expect to get new OS versions?

useroVMMdEwabT — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:57:13 GMT

What is comparable to the S21? I love this phone. I dont need fancy. I need good and durable.