As we start 2026, many Samsung Galaxy users are curious about the longevity of their devices, particularly regarding software support. Samsung’s Galaxy lineup includes several series, but this article will focus on the most popular S Series and Note Series, which are known for their flagship features. We will not cover other series like the A, J, or M lines, as their support policies may differ.
Let’s clear up a common misconception: no Samsung Galaxy phone will suddenly stop working in 2026. Your device will continue to function even if it no longer receives software updates. However, Samsung plans to discontinue software support for some older models, meaning they will no longer receive Android OS updates or security patches.
This lack of support can pose potential risks, such as security vulnerabilities or compatibility issues with newer apps. If you own an older Galaxy model, now is the time to understand what this means for you.
Samsung categorizes its Android OS updates into three main types based on the device's age and series: Monthly Updates, Quarterly Updates, and Bi-Annual Updates.
Each type of update serves a specific purpose and ensures varying levels of device functionality and security. Devices in the Monthly Updates category will be upgraded to the latest Android OS version, in addition to receiving security updates. Devices in the Quarterly Updates and Bi-Annual Updates categories will receive security updates only.
As of Jan 2024, Samsung has committed to providing 7 years of security updates for its flagship Galaxy smartphones, which is a major step forward for long-term device safety and usability. This commitment helps ensure your Galaxy phone continues to receive critical security patches that protect against vulnerabilities well beyond the typical upgrade cycle.
However, it’s important to understand the limitation: this 7-year promise applies to security updates only, not guaranteed Android OS upgrades. In other words, while your Samsung Galaxy can remain secure for up to seven years, it is not guaranteed to stay eligible for the latest Android version throughout that entire period.
Recent flagship models launched since 2023, such as Galaxy S23, S24, and S25 series.
Important Change: Since early 2026, Samsung has removed the Galaxy S22 series from the monthly update coverage.
Monthly updates ensure the latest Galaxy devices remain secure, up-to-date, and optimized for performance. This category represents Samsung’s commitment to keeping its newest flagship models ahead of the curve.
Slightly older models that are still relatively new, such as the Galaxy S22 series and S21 FE.
Important Change: Since early 2026, the S21 Series (except S21 FE) has been moved from Quarterly Update and will no longer receive any updates, as Samsung has fulfilled its 5-year software support commitment.
Quarterly updates keep these models secure but without the latest features or system improvements. These updates ensure the device remains safe and functional but signal that its lifecycle is nearing its end.
Older devices that Samsung has committed to 7-year support since Jan 2024. However, Samsung recently updated the list and has not published any model under this category. We will update this when Samsung provides an update.
These updates are Samsung’s way of offering minimal support to older budget devices. While they maintain basic functionality, users should not expect new features or extensive performance enhancements.
The following Galaxy S and Note Series models do not support the latest One UI 8 (Android 16) and are not receiving security updates as of 2026.
It’s important to point out that Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra were added to this list in late 2025. Samsung has completely stopped sending any security updates to these two models.
| Model | Released | Initial Android Version | Support Ended | Last Android Version |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S | 2010 | 2.1 Eclair | 2012 | 2.3.6 Gingerbread |
| Galaxy S II | 2011 | 2.3.4 Gingerbread | 2013 | 4.1.2 Jelly Bean |
| Galaxy S III | 2012 | 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich | 2015 | 4.4.4 KitKat |
| Galaxy S4 | 2013 | 4.2.2 Jelly Bean | 2017 | 5.0.2 Lollipop |
| Galaxy S5 | 2014 | 4.4.2 KitKat | 2019 | 6.0.1 Marshmallow |
| Galaxy S6 | 2015 | 5.0.2 Lollipop | 2019 | 7.0 Nougat |
| Galaxy S6 Edge | 2015 | 5.0.2 Lollipop | 2019 | 7.0 Nougat |
| Galaxy S7 | 2016 | 6.0.1 Marshmallow | 2020 | 8.0 Oreo |
| Galaxy S7 Edge | 2016 | 6.0.1 Marshmallow | 2020 | 8.0 Oreo |
| Galaxy S8 | 2017 | 7.0 Nougat | 2021 | 9.0 Pie |
| Galaxy S8+ | 2017 | 7.0 Nougat | 2021 | 9.0 Pie |
| Galaxy S9 | 2018 | 8.0 Oreo | 2022 | 10 |
| Galaxy S9+ | 2018 | 8.0 Oreo | 2022 | 10 |
| Galaxy S10 | 2019 | 9.0 Pie | 2023 | 12 |
| Galaxy S10+ | 2019 | 9.0 Pie | 2023 | 12 |
| Galaxy S10e | 2019 | 9.0 Pie | 2023 | 12 |
| Galaxy S10 5G | 2019 | 9.0 Pie | 2023 | 12 |
| Galaxy S20 | 2020 | 10 | 2025 | 13 |
| Galaxy S20+ | 2020 | 10 | 2025 | 13 |
| Galaxy S20 Ultra | 2020 | 10 | 2025 | 13 |
| Galaxy S20 FE | 2020 | 10 | 2026 | 13 |
| Galaxy S21 | 2021 | 11 | 2026 | 15 |
| Galaxy S21+ | 2021 | 11 | 2026 | 15 |
| Galaxy S21 Ultra | 2021 | 11 | 2026 | 15 |
| Model | Released | Initial Android Version | Support Ended | Last Android Version |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | 2011 | 2.3.6 Gingerbread | 2013 | 4.1.2 Jelly Bean |
| Note II | 2012 | 4.1.1 Jelly Bean | 2015 | 4.4.2 KitKat |
| Note 3 | 2013 | 4.3 Jelly Bean | 2017 | 5.0 Lollipop |
| Note 3 Neo | 2014 | 4.3 Jelly Bean | 2017 | 5.1.1 Lollipop |
| Note 4 | 2014 | 4.4.4 KitKat | 2019 | 6.0.1 Marshmallow |
| Note Edge | 2014 | 4.4.4 KitKat | 2019 | 6.0.1 Marshmallow |
| Note 5 | 2015 | 5.1.1 Lollipop | 2019 | 7.0 Nougat |
| Note 7 | 2016 | 6.0.1 Marshmallow | 2016 | * Recalled |
| Note FE | 2017 | 7.0 Nougat | 2021 | 9.0 Pie |
| Note 8 | 2017 | 7.1.1 Nougat | 2021 | 9.0 Pie |
| Note 9 | 2018 | 8.1.0 Oreo | 2022 | 10 |
| Note 10 | 2019 | 9 | 2023 | 12 |
| Note 10+ | 2019 | 9 | 2023 | 12 |
| Note 10 Lite | 2020 | 9 | 2023 | 12 |
| Note 20 | 2020 | 10 | 2025 | 13 |
| Note 20 Ultra | 2020 | 10 | 2025 | 13 |
These devices remain functional but lack the latest features, optimizations, and security patches. Users should consider upgrading to newer models if these limitations become problematic.
These models still support the current One UI 8 (Android 16), but Samsung has moved them from Monthly Update to Quarterly Update. These models are close to End of Life and may not support the upcoming One UI 9 (Android 17).
| Model | Released | Initial Android Version | Current Android Version | Software Update |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S21 FE | 2022 | 12 | 16 | Quarterly |
| Galaxy S22 | 2022 | 12 | 16 | Quarterly |
| Galaxy S22+ | 2022 | 12 | 16 | Quarterly |
| Galaxy S22 Ultra | 2022 | 12 | 16 | Quarterly |
After their final updates, these devices will still function and receive quarterly security updates but will no longer receive major Android upgrades. For users of these models, 2026 might be the time to start considering an upgrade.
All models below support the latest One UI 8 (Android 16) and receive monthly updates from Samsung. They are also expected to support the upcoming One UI 9 (Android 17).
| Model | Released | Initial Android Version | Support Latest Android | Software Updates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S23 | 2023 | Android 13 | Yes | Monthly |
| Galaxy S23+ | 2023 | Android 13 | Yes | Monthly |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | 2023 | Android 13 | Yes | Monthly |
| Galaxy S24 | 2024 | Android 14 | Yes | Monthly |
| Galaxy S24+ | 2024 | Android 14 | Yes | Monthly |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | 2024 | Android 14 | Yes | Monthly |
| Galaxy S25 | 2025 | Android 15 | Yes | Monthly |
| Galaxy S25+ | 2025 | Android 15 | Yes | Monthly |
| Galaxy S25 Ultra | 2025 | Android 15 | Yes | Monthly |
If you’re considering an upgrade, we strongly recommend buying Galaxy S23 or newer models like the Galaxy S24. These devices are still supported for Android OS upgrades and receive monthly security updates, ensuring optimal performance, enhanced security, and access to the latest features.
By choosing one of these models, you ensure that your device remains compatible with the latest apps, secure from vulnerabilities, and packed with features that keep it relevant for years to come. Explore certified refurbished options on trusted platforms like UpTrade to find the best deals on Galaxy S23 and S24 series devices.
No. Even if your Galaxy phone stops receiving software support in 2026, it will still power on and work for basics like calls, texts, Wi-Fi, photos, and apps you already use. The real issue is that unsupported phones stop receiving Android OS upgrades and/or security updates, which can create security and compatibility problems over time.
When support ends, Samsung stops providing updates for that model. Depending on the device, that can mean no more Android OS upgrades, no more security patches, or both. Over time, this increases security risks, reduces app compatibility, and can cause performance and stability issues.
Older Galaxy S models up through the Galaxy S21 series and older Galaxy Note models—including the Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra—are no longer receiving security updates as of 2026. These devices still function, but they are no longer protected against newly discovered vulnerabilities.
Monthly Updates apply to newer flagship models and include frequent security patches and continued Android OS upgrades. Quarterly Updates provide security patches only and no longer include major Android upgrades. Bi-Annual Updates deliver minimal security patches twice per year and are limited to older budget devices.
No. Samsung’s 7-year commitment applies to security updates only. It does not guarantee that your Galaxy phone will receive the latest Android version for seven years. A device can remain secure while still being capped at an older Android OS version.
It can still be used, but it’s not recommended—especially if you use your phone for banking, work, or storing sensitive data. Without security patches, vulnerabilities remain unpatched, increasing the risk of malware or data exposure over time.
The Galaxy S21 FE launched later than the rest of the S21 lineup, so its support timeline extends further. Software support is based on launch date and policy, not just the model name.
For long-term value, choose models that support the latest Android version and receive monthly updates, such as the Galaxy S23, S24, and S25 series. These devices offer better security, performance, and app compatibility moving forward.
If you’re using a Galaxy S20-era or Note 20-era device, upgrading to a Galaxy S23 or newer is a smart move. You’ll gain longer software support, better performance, improved cameras, and modern features like enhanced AI and 5G optimization.
Yes—but always choose Certified Used or Refurbished devices. These phones are tested, restored, and often include warranty coverage, unlike regular used phones that may have battery degradation or hidden issues.
Using a trusted comparison platform like UpTrade allows you to compare Certified Used and Refurbished Galaxy phones across verified sellers, helping you find the best price without unnecessary risk.
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