Samsung ends updates for millions of Galaxy S21 smartphones

In early April 2025, Samsung officially rolled out One UI 7 to various Galaxy devices, marking a significant point in its product lifecycle. This update includes new artificial intelligence features for several devices, but importantly indicates that the Galaxy S21 series has reached the end of its update period. The rollout initiated in March with the latest S24 series and newer foldable devices, and subsequently transitioned to older models like the Galaxy S21. Samsung typically guarantees four major Android OS updates for flagship devices released before 2024, which left the Galaxy S21 left out following its last update cycle. As the Galaxy S21 series celebrated four years since its launch in 2021, the recent update also highlights the conclusion of software support for its predecessor, the Galaxy S20. While security patches will continue, the frequency of these updates has transitioned from monthly to quarterly, a change that often signifies a product nearing the end of its life cycle, similar to the Galaxy S9 and S10 precedents. This shift raises concerns for users about the relevance and performance of their devices as update schedules slow down significantly. The impact of reducing update frequency can notably diminish the perceived value of devices. Industry analysts suggest that consumers looking to sell their Galaxy S21 should consider doing so within a year of this latest update to maximize return on their investment, as the resale market reacts unfavorably to diminished support prospects. For instance, Galaxy S22 Ultra devices are currently valued at approximately $500, underscoring the financial implications of update timelines on product usability and resale value. In an effort to incorporate AI into its devices, Samsung has also pushed a version of AI features to more affordable and older models, such as Galaxy A series phones. However, feedback from Galaxy S21 users indicates the new AI functionalities may be lacking or entirely missing after applying the update. As the lifecycle of the Galaxy S21 winds down, the absence of robust, innovative features could further dampen its appeal in an already competitive smartphone market, further emphasizing the urgent need for users to adapt and manage their upgrade paths judiciously.