Samsung has consistently set high standards in the smartphone industry, not just with its hardware innovations but also in the realm of software updates. The brand’s commitment to delivering timely updates—whether major OS upgrades or minor security patches—has made it a trusted name among smartphone enthusiasts. However, as with every new software cycle, some devices eventually reach the end of their update journey.
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| Samsung Galaxy Devices Eligible for Android 15 – Final Major OS Update List |
In this blog, we’ll explore Samsung's evolving software update policies and identify the Galaxy smartphones that will receive Android 15 as their last major OS update.
📱 How Samsung Revolutionized Its Software Update Policy for Galaxy Devices
Samsung’s software update policy has undergone significant transformations over the years. Initially, many Android manufacturers, including Samsung, provided only two years of major OS updates. But with growing competition and increasing user demand for longer support, Samsung revamped its strategy to stay ahead of the curve.
🔹 Four-Year Software Policy:
Samsung introduced a four-year software update policy that promised:
- Four major Android OS updates
- Five years of security patches
This policy primarily benefited high-end Galaxy devices like the Galaxy S, Note, and Z series. Mid-range and budget models received slightly shorter update lifespans, often limited to two or three major OS updates.
🔹 Seven-Year Software Policy (A Game Changer):
With the launch of the Galaxy S24 series, Samsung took a bold step by promising:
- Seven years of Android OS updates
- Seven years of security updates
This unprecedented move put Samsung ahead of competitors, even surpassing Google’s Pixel devices in terms of long-term support. It wasn’t just limited to flagship models—Samsung also extended six years of software support to select mid-range Galaxy devices for the first time.
This commitment solidifies Samsung’s position as a leader in Android software support, ensuring that devices remain secure and up-to-date for years.
🚨 Why Do Some Devices Stop Receiving Major OS Updates?
While Samsung’s software policies have improved, every device has an expiration date for major OS updates. Here’s why:
- Hardware Limitations: Older processors may struggle to handle newer OS features.
- Development Costs: Maintaining software support for aging devices can be resource-intensive.
- User Experience: To ensure smooth performance, Samsung prioritizes devices that can fully leverage new features.
However, devices that stop receiving major OS updates will continue to receive security patches for an extended period, keeping them safe from vulnerabilities.
✅ Samsung Galaxy Devices Receiving Android 15 as Their Last Major OS Update
Samsung is preparing to roll out Android 15-based One UI 7. Unfortunately, for some devices, this will be their final major software upgrade. Here’s the complete list:
📂 1. Galaxy Z Series
📱 Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G
- Launched: 2021
- Pre-installed OS: Android 11 (One UI 3.1)
- Software Support: Android 15 will be the last major update.
- Security Patches: Will continue post-Android 15.
📱 Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G
- Launched: 2021
- Pre-installed OS: Android 11 (One UI 3.1)
- Software Support: Final OS update with Android 15.
- Security Patches: Extended support for security updates.
These foldable devices have had an impressive run, showcasing Samsung’s innovation. While Android 15 marks the end of their OS journey, they’ll remain secure with ongoing patches.
📂 2. Galaxy S Series
📱 Galaxy S21
📱 Galaxy S21+
📱 Galaxy S21 Ultra
- Launched: 2021
- Pre-installed OS: Android 11
- Software Policy: Four major OS updates.
- Final Update: Android 15
- Security Patches: Available beyond the final OS update.
The Galaxy S21 series set the stage for Samsung’s design and performance evolution. Despite reaching the end of their OS lifecycle, these devices remain powerful and reliable.
📂 3. Galaxy A, M, & F Series
📱 Galaxy A14 (4G & 5G) – 2023 Launch
📱 Galaxy M14 (4G & 5G) – 2023 Launch
📱 Galaxy M33 (2022)
📱 Galaxy F14 (2023)
- Software Policy:
- Galaxy M33: Three major OS updates.
- Other models (A14, M14, F14): Two major OS updates due to the Core version of One UI.
- Final Update: Android 15
- Security Patches: Will continue post-Android 15.
These mid-range devices have offered great value, especially in emerging markets. While their OS journey ends with Android 15, they’ll still receive critical security updates.
📂 4. Galaxy Tablets
📱 Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2022)
📱 Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro (2022)
- Software Policy: Three major OS updates.
- Final Update: Android 15
- Security Patches: Continued support for enterprise and business users.
These tablets cater to both casual and professional users. Even after their last OS update, they’ll remain functional and secure.
📊 Summary of Devices Receiving Android 15 as Their Last Major OS Update
| Device | Launched | Final OS Update | Security Patches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G | 2021 | Android 15 | Yes |
| Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G | 2021 | Android 15 | Yes |
| Galaxy S21 / S21+ / Ultra | 2021 | Android 15 | Yes |
| Galaxy A14 (4G/5G) | 2023 | Android 15 | Yes |
| Galaxy M14 (4G/5G) | 2023 | Android 15 | Yes |
| Galaxy M33 | 2022 | Android 15 | Yes |
| Galaxy F14 | 2023 | Android 15 | Yes |
| Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2022) | 2022 | Android 15 | Yes |
| Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro | 2022 | Android 15 | Yes |
🤔 What Should You Do If Your Device Is on the List?
- Consider Upgrading: If you rely heavily on the latest features, consider upgrading to a newer Galaxy device with longer support.
- Optimize Performance: Even without future OS updates, you can improve performance with regular maintenance—clearing cache, managing apps, and updating security patches.
- Stay Secure: Always install the latest security patches when available to protect against vulnerabilities.
🚀 Samsung’s Commitment to Long-Term Support
Samsung’s extended software policies show that the company is listening to its customers. The introduction of seven years of software support for flagship models is revolutionary in the Android ecosystem. Even for devices reaching their last OS update, Samsung continues to provide security updates, ensuring longevity.
While saying goodbye to major updates can be bittersweet, it’s clear that Samsung’s devices have a longer, more secure lifespan than ever before.
💬 What’s Your Take?
Is your Galaxy device on the list? How do you feel about Samsung’s software update policies?
- Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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