Samsung Ends Software Support for these two Galaxy Tab – What It Means for Users
Samsung Ends Software Support for Galaxy Tab A7 Lite and Tab S6 Lite – What You Need to Know
Samsung has recently updated its software update plan for June 2025, and with it comes a key announcement affecting long-time tablet users. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite and the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite have officially reached the end of their software update cycle. These two popular tablets, known for their budget-friendliness and solid performance, will no longer receive software updates — including both security patches and major Android upgrades.
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Galaxy Tab A7 Lite and Tab S6 Lite “Software Support Ended – June 2025 |
So, what does this mean for users of these tablets? Should you be worried, and should you consider upgrading? In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know — from why Samsung is ending support, to what your options are moving forward.
📅 June 2025 Software Update Plan: What's Changed?
In its June 2025 software maintenance update, Samsung made several changes to its software policy. One of the notable decisions was removing the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite and Galaxy Tab S6 Lite from its biannual software update list.
This action signals the end of regular software support for these devices, which have now completed their promised update cycles.
📌 What Does This Mean?
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No more security updates (monthly/quarterly/biannual)
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No new Android OS upgrades
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No more One UI feature updates
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Still eligible for Google Play system updates
📱 Galaxy Tab A7 Lite – A Budget Beast Comes to the End
Launched in 2021 with Android 11, the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite quickly became a fan-favorite among budget tablet users. It featured a compact 8.7-inch display, a MediaTek processor, and a lightweight design perfect for casual media consumption.
✅ Update History:
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Original Android Version: Android 11
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Latest Major Update: Android 14 (with One UI Core)
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Security Updates: Until early 2025 (biannual)
After receiving three major OS updates, Samsung has fulfilled its promise. As of June 2025, it is officially dropped from the update support list.
💼 Galaxy Tab S6 Lite – The Affordable Stylus Experience
Released in 2020, the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite came with Android 10 and included S Pen support, offering a more affordable way for users to take notes and draw. With a 10.4-inch display, an Exynos 9611 processor, and Samsung DeX-lite features, it was a favorite for students and professionals on a budget.
✅ Update History:
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Original Android Version: Android 10
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Latest Major Update: Android 13 or Android 14 (depending on region and variant)
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Security Updates: Quarterly until early 2025
Now, this model too has completed its expected software lifecycle.
🔐 Will My Tablet Be Safe Without Samsung Updates?
One of the biggest concerns users face when support ends is security. The good news is — your device won’t suddenly become unsafe or stop working.
✅ Here’s what you can still expect:
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Google Play System Updates – These updates from Google continue independently and offer protection against critical vulnerabilities.
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App Compatibility – Most major apps (social media, banking, streaming) will continue to support your device for at least another 1–2 years.
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Samsung Services – Basic Samsung services like SmartThings, Samsung Notes, and Samsung TV Plus will still work unless specifically updated beyond compatibility.
However, over time, the absence of security patches may make the device more vulnerable to threats, especially if you download third-party apps or browse unfamiliar websites.
🔄 Should You Upgrade Your Tablet Now?
That depends on your usage. If you’re someone who:
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Uses tablets for banking, work, or sensitive data
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Wants the latest Android features and UI improvements
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Plays demanding games or uses heavy apps
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Prefers to stay up-to-date with security standards
Then yes, consider upgrading to a newer Galaxy tablet.
🔍 Recommended Samsung Tablet Upgrades in 2025
Here are a few excellent upgrade options from Samsung that offer better performance, longer update support, and newer features:
✅ Galaxy Tab A9 Series
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Best for: Budget users
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Pros: Affordable, compact, and improved chipset
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Software Support: 4 years of updates
✅ Galaxy Tab S9 Series
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Best for: Premium performance
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Pros: AMOLED display, DeX support, powerful chip, IP68 rating
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Software Support: 4 OS + 5 years of security updates
✅ Galaxy Tab S10 Series (Coming Soon or Newly Released)
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Best for: Future-proof experience
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Pros: Flagship-level specs, enhanced productivity features, and Android 15+ out of the box
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Software Support: Up to 7 years (following Galaxy S24 policy)
These tablets not only keep you secure but also ensure that you enjoy the latest One UI features, better multitasking, and superior display quality.
🧩 Can You Still Use Galaxy Tab A7 Lite or Tab S6 Lite in 2025?
Absolutely!
Even without Samsung software updates, these tablets can still be used efficiently for basic to moderate tasks.
You can still:
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Browse the web
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Watch YouTube or Netflix
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Use social media (Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp)
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Read eBooks and documents
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Play lightweight games
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Attend video calls or classes
For users not demanding cutting-edge features, these tablets remain functional and reliable.
🔧 Tips to Extend Device Life Post-Support
If you decide to keep your Galaxy Tab A7 Lite or Tab S6 Lite, here are a few tips to maximize performance and safety:
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Enable Google Play System Updates
Go to Settings > Security > Google Play system update to check and install them regularly. -
Install a Reliable Antivirus
Use trusted apps like Norton, Bitdefender, or Kaspersky to boost security. -
Avoid Sideloading APKs
Stick to Google Play Store to avoid malware or unverified apps. -
Clear Cache Regularly
This keeps the device running smoothly. -
Factory Reset if Sluggish
A clean start can boost performance if the device becomes laggy. -
Use Lite or Web Versions of Apps
For better performance, use Facebook Lite, YouTube Go, or web versions.
📶 Verizon-Specific Note: A7 Lite Update
It’s worth noting that Verizon recently rolled out one final security patch for the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, which may be the last update from a carrier perspective. This includes minor stability improvements but no new features.
So if you're using a Verizon model, you may have received a newer build in June 2025 as part of the final security rollout.
📝 Final Thoughts
Samsung has done a commendable job supporting the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite and Galaxy Tab S6 Lite for several years, especially considering their budget and mid-range categories. Both tablets have received:
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3 major Android OS upgrades
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3–4 years of security support
As they now reach the end of their official lifecycle, users should understand what it means, stay cautious with security practices, and evaluate if it’s time to upgrade based on their personal needs.
If you choose to continue using your current tablet, you’re not at risk — but being aware of the limitations and future app compatibility issues is important.
💬 Have you used the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite or S6 Lite? Planning to upgrade or keep using it? Share your thoughts in the comments!