Samsung is ending software support for several older smartphone models, meaning devices like the Galaxy S21 and Note 20 will no longer receive security patches, while others, including the Galaxy S22 series, will miss out on the OneUI 9 (Android 17) update.
Which Samsung phones will not get OneUI 9?
Several devices will stop receiving major OS upgrades before reaching OneUI 9. This includes the Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S22, and S22+, as well as the Galaxy S21 FE. Foldable users with the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 are also excluded. On the mid-range side, the Galaxy A53 and Galaxy A33 5G will not see the update.
Owners of these devices aren’t completely stranded. Samsung will continue to provide security updates, though the frequency drops from monthly to quarterly. The company has not specified exactly when this security support will end.
What happens when a Samsung phone stops receiving all updates?
A subset of devices has reached the end of their entire support lifecycle, meaning they will receive no further OS updates or security patches. This list includes the Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, Galaxy Note 20, Note Ultra, Galaxy A13, Galaxy A23 LTE, and Galaxy M33 5G.
Running a device without security patches is a significant risk. Smartphones are essentially pocket computers; without patches, known vulnerabilities remain open for cybercriminals to exploit. This makes these specific models prime targets for malware and data theft.
How to handle a device with outdated software?
If you own a Galaxy S21 or Note 20, the hardware might still feel fast, but the software is now a liability. The safest move is to migrate to a newer model.
For those with the S22 or A53, you can keep using the device for now, but the shift to quarterly security updates means your window of vulnerability is wider between patches.
Quick Comparison: Update Status
| Device Group | OneUI 9 (Android 17) | Security Patches |
|---|---|---|
| S22 / Z Fold 4 / A53 | ❌ No | ✅ Quarterly |
| S21 / Note 20 / A13 | ❌ No | ❌ None |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my Galaxy S21 if it doesn’t get updates?
Yes, the phone will function, but it is less secure. You are more susceptible to security breaches because the software is no longer being patched against new threats.
What is the difference between an OS update and a security update?
An OS update (like OneUI 9) adds new features and changes the interface. A security update fixes “holes” in the software that hackers use to get into your device.
Will my apps stop working without OneUI 9?
Not immediately.
Do you still use one of these legacy devices, or have you already upgraded to a newer Galaxy? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest Android security alerts.
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