Samsung ends security updates for Galaxy devices this month

Samsung has announced the discontinuation of security updates for several Galaxy devices, effective this month. The company had previously committed to providing four years of security patches for devices released in 2019. However, it has extended support for the Galaxy S20 series, which includes the S20, S20+, and S20 Ultra, granting them an additional year of updates, transitioning from monthly to quarterly updates. This extension is expected to last until 2025, marking the final year for these devices. The decision to end updates for certain models, such as the Galaxy Z Flip 5G, has implications for users considering trade-ins. Samsung is currently offering significant trade-in values for the Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G and Note 20 Ultra, reflecting the company's strategy to retain users within its ecosystem. The Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G is valued at $400, while the Note 20 Ultra is offered at $300, indicating a strong incentive for users to upgrade. In contrast, the Galaxy Z Flip 5G has a much lower trade-in value of $100, which suggests that its popularity has waned. This disparity in trade-in values may have influenced Samsung's decision to discontinue support for the Flip model. The company’s approach appears to be aimed at encouraging users to consider newer models, especially with the upcoming launch of the iPhone 16, which may further impact consumer choices. Overall, Samsung's strategy reflects a balance between maintaining customer loyalty through extended support for popular models while phasing out less successful devices. This move is indicative of the competitive landscape in the smartphone market, where timely updates and trade-in values play a crucial role in consumer decision-making.