Samsung Galaxy S21 Moves to Quarterly Updates: What You Need to Know

Samsung has committed to providing seven years of updates for some of its latest devices, but owners of the Galaxy S21 series might start feeling left out. The brand has officially moved the Galaxy S21 lineup from monthly to quarterly updates, signaling the beginning of a gradual phase-out.

This change was first noted by the folks at 9to5Google, with details confirmed on the Samsung Mobile Security website. So, what does this mean for Galaxy S21 users? Essentially, Samsung will now provide updates every quarter instead of monthly, as the company begins winding down work on this series.

What Devices Are Affected?

This change applies to the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra. However, the Galaxy S21 FE remains unaffected for now since it was released a bit later. While this shift may be disappointing for some, it’s not entirely surprising. As devices age, they naturally receive fewer updates and less attention. The good news? Samsung promised four years of updates for the Galaxy S21 series, so users can still expect to receive One UI 7.

One UI 7: A Bright Spot for Galaxy S21 Owners

One UI 7 didn’t follow Samsung’s usual release schedule, arriving much later than expected. But the wait paid off—it’s been widely praised for its visual upgrades and useful features. Galaxy S21 users should definitely be excited about this update, as it’s shaping up to be a significant improvement.

Should You Upgrade?

If this news has you reconsidering your options, now might be a great time to trade in your Galaxy S21 and upgrade to Samsung’s latest Galaxy S25 series. With trade-in programs currently offering solid value, it could be worth making the jump. That said, there’s no rush. The Galaxy S21 lineup is still a capable series, and this is just the start of its transition phase. If you’re happy with your device, there’s nothing wrong with sticking it out a little longer.

In the end, the choice is yours—whether to enjoy the remaining updates for your Galaxy S21 or explore Samsung’s newest offerings. Either way, it’s good to stay informed about how your device will be supported moving forward!