Samsung prepares the end of software support for several models throughout 2026. Essa measure mainly affects devices launched in 2021 and 2022, which follow old update policies and no longer receive security patches.
Users of these devices will no longer have official fixes for vulnerabilities. Cell phones continue to function normally, but they become more exposed to security risks over time.
This change aligns with the cycle defined by the manufacturer at the time of each model’s launch. The company has expanded support for recent lines, offering up to seven years of updates on flagships.
Flagship models affected by end of support
The lineGalaxy S21represents the main group impacted in 2026. Lançados in January 2021 with Android 11, theGalaxy S21, S21+ e S21 Ultrareceived four major system updates, reaching Android 15 with One UI 7.
These devices have only received quarterly security patches in recent years. Full five-year support for patches ends in early 2026, per current policy at the time.
O Galaxy S21 FEescapes this list because it was released in 2022. Ele remains eligible for updates until 2027.
The foldablesGalaxy Z Fold 3 e ZFlip 3, presented in August 2021, follow the same schedule. Eles arrived with Android 11 and were updated to Android 15.
Currently, they receive quarterly patches. The end of support occurs in the second half of 2026, completing five years of security fixes.
Intermediaries that end their cycle in 2026
A-line models launched in 2022 also reach the end of support. THEGalaxy A23and theGalaxy A13, revealed in March of that year, came with Android 12 and received updates up to Android 14.
- Includes 5G variants of both devices.
- Currently in quarterly security cycle.
- Support ends in 2026, following the four-year promise.
O Galaxy M13, released in July 2022, follows a similar pattern. Ele started with Android 12 and stopped at Android 14 with One UI 6.
Samsung maintains quarterly patches for now. Antes from the definitive end in 2026, the frequency may be reduced to every six months.
How the Samsung update policy works
Samsung divides updates into two main categories. Major releases of Android arrive annually, accompanied by new editions of the One UI.
They bring new features and general improvements to the system. The quantity varies depending on the model and year of release.
Security patches come out more frequently. Nos first years, occur monthly on premium devices.
Over time, they become quarterly and, in the final stages, semi-annual. Eles fixes critical bugs without changing the major system version.
Evolution of support over the years
The manufacturer has gradually extended the update period. Modelos asGalaxy S21followed the rule of four versions of Android and five years of security.
From the lineGalaxy S22, went to four system updates and five years of patches. Linhas latest, likeGalaxy S24and above, gained seven full years.
Selected intermediaries now receive up to six years. The cycle always starts from the global launch date of the device.
This extension reflects a greater commitment to longevity. Usuários of older models should consider upgrading to maintain adequate protection.
List of eight affected models
Devices likely to lose support in 2026 include:
- Galaxy S21
- Galaxy S21+
- Galaxy S21 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold 3
- Galaxy Z Flip 3
- Galaxy A23 (and A23 5G)
- Galaxy A13 (and A13 5G)
- Galaxy M13 (and M13 5G)
These devices have already received their latest major updates. Eles only depend on patches remaining by the deadline.
Impact to current users
Millions of consumers still use these models on a daily basis. The end of updates does not prevent immediate use.
Apps continue to work in most cases. Bancos and sensitive services may require newer system versions in the future.
Maintaining safe habits, such as avoiding unknown sources, helps mitigate risks. Trocar by actively supported devices ensures continuous protection.
Samsung encourages migration to current lines. Elas not only offers more years of updates, but also advanced artificial intelligence features.
