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Force unlocked OTA interruption

(Topic created: 06-10-2025 04:46 PM)
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s23bricked
Constellation
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Galaxy S23
Hey there. I bought a refurbished Samsung not too long ago, only to find out it was force unlocked from VZW by the refurbisher which means I am not able to update my phone. My last update was July 1, 2023, and I'm still on Android 13 and oneUI 5!! Is there anything I can do? I don't use VZW either.

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SamsungModerator1
Community Manager
Community Manager
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Galaxy S23

Hey s23bricked, Welcome to the Community. We understand how frustrating it can be when your phone is not updating to the latest software version.

Have you tried inserting a Verizon SIM to update the phone?

If you've already tried restarting your device, we suggest clearing the cache of the phone by following these steps:

With the device off, press and hold the Volume Up and Power keys.
When the device turns on and logo displays, release both keys.
Use the Volume keys to highlight wipe cache partition, then press the Power key.
Continue using the Volume and Power keys to confirm your choice if prompted.

If this doesn't work, try updating your phone with your computer using Smart Switch. Start with download Smart Switch for your computer by going to this link - https://www.samsung.com/us/support/owners/app/smart-switch 

Install the Smart Switch on your computer. Once done restart your pc to make sure that files needed are installed correctly. Then connect your phone using the cable that came with your phone to your computer. Then an option "Update" should appear.

If you are still unable to update the phone, we suggest backing up your device and doing a factory data reset. https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00062029/

As an alternative, you can have the phone serviced to have the update installed. You can use the following link to find a list of service centers in the U.S. that can install the software: http://www.samsung.com/us/support/service/location or by calling customer support at 1-800-726-7864.

For service outside the U.S., please use this link: https://www.samsung.com/us/common/visitlocationsite.html

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6 Replies
meself
Honored Contributor
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Galaxy S23
If you can return the phone for a refund
s23bricked
Constellation
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Galaxy S23
Yeah I'm honestly just looking at getting an s24 off backmarket. I bought this one from an Amazon refurbisher so I'm extremely disappointed with how it turned out.
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meself
Honored Contributor
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Galaxy S23
I never trust ebay or Amazon phones
s23bricked
Constellation
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Galaxy S23
Had to learn the hard way 😔
3Fees
Neutron Star
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Galaxy S23
Refurbished phones can be an issue, new is best.

Cheers
3Fees
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Solution
SamsungModerator1
Community Manager
Community Manager
Options
Galaxy S23

Hey s23bricked, Welcome to the Community. We understand how frustrating it can be when your phone is not updating to the latest software version.

Have you tried inserting a Verizon SIM to update the phone?

If you've already tried restarting your device, we suggest clearing the cache of the phone by following these steps:

With the device off, press and hold the Volume Up and Power keys.
When the device turns on and logo displays, release both keys.
Use the Volume keys to highlight wipe cache partition, then press the Power key.
Continue using the Volume and Power keys to confirm your choice if prompted.

If this doesn't work, try updating your phone with your computer using Smart Switch. Start with download Smart Switch for your computer by going to this link - https://www.samsung.com/us/support/owners/app/smart-switch 

Install the Smart Switch on your computer. Once done restart your pc to make sure that files needed are installed correctly. Then connect your phone using the cable that came with your phone to your computer. Then an option "Update" should appear.

If you are still unable to update the phone, we suggest backing up your device and doing a factory data reset. https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00062029/

As an alternative, you can have the phone serviced to have the update installed. You can use the following link to find a list of service centers in the U.S. that can install the software: http://www.samsung.com/us/support/service/location or by calling customer support at 1-800-726-7864.

For service outside the U.S., please use this link: https://www.samsung.com/us/common/visitlocationsite.html

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