Samsung Surprises Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Fold 3 Users with Early Android 15-Based One UI 7 Update Rollout

Samsung continues to impress its user base by consistently staying ahead in software innovation. After the successful rollout of One UI 7 based on Android 15 for the Galaxy S21 series, Samsung has now taken the foldable segment by surprise. The South Korean tech giant has begun rolling out the Android 15-based One UI 7 stable update for its iconic foldable smartphones — the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Galaxy Z Fold 3 — ahead of schedule.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Fold 3 One UI 7 Update with Android 15 and April 2025 Patch

Galaxy Z Flip 3 & Fold 3 Get Android 15-Based One UI 7 Update Early

As of now, the update is live in South Korea, with other regions expected to follow in the coming days or weeks. Let’s dive deep into what this update brings, the official build numbers, and why it’s a major milestone for 2021’s flagship foldables.

📱 Build Numbers and Update Size

Users of the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Galaxy Z Fold 3 can identify the update using the following One UI 7 build versions:

Galaxy Z Flip 3: F711NKSU8KYD9
Galaxy Z Fold 3: F926NKSU7KYD9

The installation package size is approximately 3.5GB, indicating a full OS upgrade with a rich set of new features, UI redesigns, and under-the-hood improvements. This is not a mere security patch but a substantial firmware overhaul that transforms your device experience.

🌍 Initial Rollout and Availability

Samsung has currently rolled out the update only in South Korea. Being a phased release, it might take a few hours or days for the update to reach all eligible devices in the region.

Once bugs and performance metrics are stabilized, Samsung is likely to expand the rollout to global markets such as India, the U.S., Europe, and Southeast Asia. As always, users are advised to keep an eye on their Software Update section.

To manually check for the update: Go to Settings → Software Update → Download and Install

🆕 What’s New in One UI 7 (Android 15) for Galaxy Z Flip 3 & Fold 3

Samsung’s One UI 7 brings a host of visual upgrades, intelligent features, and enhanced personalization. Here's a complete breakdown of what’s packed in this update:

1️⃣ Redesigned Quick Settings Panel

One UI 7 sports a revamped Quick Settings menu. The new layout improves reachability and visibility, especially helpful for foldable screens. Toggling Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other options is now more intuitive, cleaner, and faster.

The interface now adapts to different lighting conditions better, with more contrast and improved spacing between icons, making usability a breeze.

2️⃣ Vertical App Drawer for Better Organization

Samsung has added a new vertical app drawer that provides a scrolling list instead of the traditional horizontal tabs. This change allows users to find apps faster without swiping endlessly. It’s particularly handy on the taller foldable screens of the Z Fold 3 and Flip 3.

3️⃣ The All-New “Now Bar”

A fresh addition to One UI 7 is the Now Bar, which displays real-time information like weather, reminders, and music on your lock screen. Without unlocking your phone, you get updates at a glance — enhancing convenience and reducing unnecessary screen time.

4️⃣ Advanced Call Transcripts

Samsung is introducing an AI-powered Call Transcript feature that can record and transcribe your calls in multiple languages. This is especially beneficial for business users, journalists, or those who need to maintain call records.

The transcription accuracy has been significantly improved, and the tool also integrates with Samsung Notes for easy storage and sharing.

5️⃣ Better Device Security with Enhanced Permissions

With Android 15 as its base, One UI 7 strengthens user security. Background app activity, location access, microphone usage, and file sharing permissions have become more transparent and easier to control. You'll receive real-time notifications when apps attempt to access sensitive data.

Samsung Knox has also been upgraded to provide better encryption and sandboxing techniques.

6️⃣ April 2025 Security Patch

This update also includes the April 2025 Android security patch, fixing multiple vulnerabilities related to system processes, kernel modules, and Bluetooth. This enhances the overall security and reliability of both devices, providing peace of mind to users.

💡 Additional Enhancements in One UI 7

Improved Battery Management: New power-saving modes and background process limits extend battery life.
AI Optimized Performance: Apps launch faster, animations are smoother, and RAM management is better tailored to multitasking.
Camera Improvements: Minor tweaks have been made to the camera app for faster shutter speed and clearer low-light shots.
Better Flex Mode Support: Enhanced split-view functionality for foldables using Flex Mode, allowing seamless app transitions and improved multitasking.
Widget Customization: More dynamic widgets that respond to your usage patterns and allow resizing, color themes, and interactivity.

⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind Before Updating

Before proceeding with the update, make sure to:

Backup your data via Samsung Cloud or Smart Switch.
Ensure at least 50% battery life or connect your device to a charger.
Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network to avoid data charges and interruptions.
Check your available storage space, as the 3.5GB package needs adequate room to download and install.

🧩 How This Update Benefits Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Fold 3 Users

Even though the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3 were released in 2021, Samsung is showcasing its strong commitment to long-term software support. With Android 15 being their fourth major OS update, these devices are receiving flagship-grade treatment.

This move ensures that Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Fold 3 users continue to experience cutting-edge features, keeping their smartphones feeling fresh and relevant even in 2025.

🌐 When Will It Arrive in Other Countries?

While South Korea has taken the lead, Samsung’s track record suggests a global rollout will follow within 2–3 weeks, depending on carrier testing and regional optimizations.

Expected rollout timeline:

India & Europe – Early to Mid May 2025
USA & Canada – Mid to Late May 2025
Southeast Asia – End of May 2025
Middle East & Africa – Early June 2025

🔧 Troubleshooting and Post-Update Tips

If you're experiencing issues after updating:

Clear system cache via Recovery Mode.
Restart your device at least once after installation.
If bugs persist, wait for Samsung’s hotfix updates or submit feedback via the Samsung Members app.

📣 Final Thoughts

Samsung’s early release of Android 15-based One UI 7 for the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Galaxy Z Fold 3 is a testament to its evolving software strategy that emphasizes longevity, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

This update not only breathes new life into the two-year-old foldables but also ensures that loyal Samsung users continue to enjoy top-tier features without needing to upgrade hardware.

With UI enhancements, new AI capabilities, better security, and performance upgrades, this is one of the most comprehensive One UI updates yet. If you own either of these foldables, this update is definitely worth downloading as soon as it becomes available in your region.

Ready to Update?
Check your device under:
Settings → Software Update → Download and Install