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Samsung has been at the forefront of delivering timely software updates to its Galaxy devices, ensuring users get the latest features, security patches, and performance enhancements. As Google moves forward with the development of Android 16, Samsung is preparing to roll out One UI 7, based on Android 15. However, for some Galaxy models, this will be the final OS update before they lose major software support.
If you own a Samsung Galaxy S21, Z Flip 3, or Z Fold 3, this update will be your last major software upgrade. While these devices will continue to receive security patches for some time, they won’t be eligible for One UI 8 or Android 16.
In this article, we will discuss:
- The Samsung phones losing OS update support after Android 15
- What features One UI 7 brings to Samsung devices
- How Samsung’s update policy works
Samsung’s Update Policy: How Long Do Devices Get Software Support?
Samsung follows a structured software update policy to ensure device longevity. The company generally provides:
- 4 years of major Android OS updates for flagship and select mid-range models
- 5 years of security updates for enhanced protection
- Limited support for budget and entry-level models
For reference, the Galaxy S21 series debuted with Android 11 and has received four major updates (up to Android 15). Since Samsung follows a four-year upgrade cycle, these models will no longer get major updates after One UI 7.
Similarly, foldable devices like the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3 will also reach the end of their major software update cycle with Android 15. While they will still receive security patches, they won’t get One UI 8 (Android 16).
List of Samsung Phones That Won’t Get Android 16
The following Galaxy models will receive Android 15 (One UI 7) as their last major update:
Galaxy S Series
- Galaxy S21
- Galaxy S21+
- Galaxy S21 Ultra
Galaxy Z Series
- Galaxy Z Flip 3
- Galaxy Z Fold 3
Galaxy A & M Series
- Galaxy A14 / A14 5G
- Galaxy M14 / M14 5G
If you own any of these models, you can still enjoy Android 15’s new features, but this will be your last OS upgrade.
What’s New in One UI 7 (Android 15)?
While One UI 7 marks the end of OS updates for these models, it still brings exciting new features to enhance performance, security, and usability.
Top Features of One UI 7
- Now Bar – A redesigned navigation bar with improved multitasking features.
- Enhanced AI Capabilities – Galaxy AI enhances text suggestions, voice commands, and smart automation.
- Redesigned UI and Icons – A fresh look with modernized icons and smoother UI elements.
- Customizable Quick Settings – Improved toggles and settings customization.
- Better Animations – Smoother and more fluid motion transitions across the system.
- Dynamic Lock Screen Widgets – More customization for lock screen widgets.
- New Camera App Layout – Enhanced camera UI for a better photography experience.
- App Archiving – Save storage by archiving unused apps without deleting them.
- Expanded Gesture Controls – More intuitive swipe and touch gestures.
- Private Space for Security – A separate, password-protected area for private apps and files.
- Streamlined Notification Shade – Better organization for notifications and quick replies.
- Vertical App Drawer Option – Users can switch between horizontal and vertical scrolling for app lists.
- Adaptive Screen Timeout – AI-based screen timeout that adjusts based on usage patterns.
- AI-Powered Writing Tools – Smart suggestions and grammar corrections built into the keyboard.
- Call Transcription in Multiple Languages – Real-time call transcription for different languages.
- Enhanced Battery Management – New battery-saving modes for prolonged usage.
- Customizable Home Screen Layout – More options for arranging apps and widgets.
- AI Audio Eraser – Remove background noise from voice recordings.
- Super HDR Toggle – Improved HDR settings for better display performance.
- Sketch to Image Tool – Convert hand-drawn sketches into AI-generated digital images.
Should You Upgrade Your Samsung Phone?
If you own a Galaxy S21, Z Flip 3, or Fold 3, One UI 7 will keep your device running smoothly for another year or two. However, since Android 16 won’t be available, your phone will eventually start to feel outdated in terms of features and security enhancements.
For users who want the latest Android versions beyond 2025, upgrading to a newer Samsung flagship (such as the Galaxy S23, S24, or upcoming S25 series) might be a good option. Samsung’s recent phones offer longer software support (up to seven years for some premium models), making them a future-proof investment.
Also Read: Top 10 AI Tools to Transform Your Daily Life in 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Will my Galaxy S21 receive Android 16?
No, the Galaxy S21 series will receive Android 15 (One UI 7) as its final major update. It will not get Android 16 (One UI 8).
2. How long will my Galaxy S21 continue receiving security updates?
Samsung typically provides five years of security updates, meaning the Galaxy S21 series will receive security patches until at least 2026.
3. Are the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3 also losing OS update support?
Yes, the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3 will receive Android 15 as their last major update. They won’t be eligible for Android 16.
4. Should I upgrade my Samsung phone now?
If you want to continue receiving major Android updates beyond 2025, upgrading to a newer Galaxy model like the S24 or S25 series is recommended.
5. Will One UI 7 improve my device’s performance?
Yes, One UI 7 brings AI enhancements, improved animations, and better battery management, making older Samsung devices feel smoother and more efficient.
6. Will my Galaxy A14 or M14 get Android 16?
No, the Galaxy A14 and M14 series will receive Android 15 as their last OS update.
