# Galaxy S21 Series Update Frequency Decreases: Essential Information
Samsung has established itself as a frontrunner in the Android smartphone sector, recognized for its innovative hardware and dedication to timely software updates. However, for those with the **Galaxy S21 series**, a significant transition is on the way. Samsung has discreetly signaled that the frequency of updates for these models is diminishing, representing a crucial point in their lifecycle. Below is all the vital information regarding the changes and their implications for Galaxy S21 owners.
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## **What’s Different?**
Samsung has officially reduced the update frequency for the Galaxy S21 series from **monthly security updates** to **quarterly updates**. This adjustment affects the **Galaxy S21**, **S21 Plus**, and **S21 Ultra**, all launched in early 2021. This decision comes as these devices near the end of their promised four-year software support period, encompassing major Android OS updates and security patches.
The **Galaxy S21 FE** (Fan Edition), released later in 2021, is an exception to this change. It will maintain its monthly update schedule for the time being, consistent with Samsung’s update approach for newer products.
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## **The Wider Implications: Samsung’s Update Strategy**
Samsung has been a pioneer in extending software support for its devices. The company recently revealed that its newest flagship, the **Galaxy S25 series**, will benefit from **seven years of updates**, inclusive of monthly security patches. This is a substantial advancement, especially in a landscape where most Android brands provide only 2-3 years of support.
Initially, Samsung had committed to delivering **four years of Android OS updates** and **five years of security updates** for the Galaxy S21 series. While these devices are still set to receive their final significant update—**One UI 7**, based on Android 15—the transition to quarterly updates marks the onset of the conclusion for these once-prominent devices.
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## **Implications for Galaxy S21 Users**
### **1. Shift to Quarterly Updates**
The move to quarterly updates implies that Galaxy S21 owners will stop receiving monthly security patches. Instead, updates will now occur every three months, addressing a wider array of security weaknesses and bugs collectively. While this adjustment still represents a reasonable level of support, it is a reduction from the more regular updates that users have previously experienced.
### **2. One UI 7: The Last Major Upgrade**
The Galaxy S21 series debuted with **Android 11** and has advanced to receive updates up to **Android 14**. The forthcoming **One UI 7**, built on Android 15, will serve as the last significant software enhancement for these devices. This update is anticipated to introduce a redesigned user interface, improved AI functionalities, and various enhancements reflective of Samsung’s latest flagship offerings.
### **3. Security Patches Until 2026**
Despite the slowing update pace, Samsung has assured users that security updates for the Galaxy S21 series will continue until **early 2026**. This commitment ensures that the devices will remain secure and operational for several additional years, even as they become older.
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## **Reasons Behind the Galaxy S21 FE Exception**
The **Galaxy S21 FE**, which was introduced later in 2021, continues to qualify for monthly updates. This is due to Samsung’s update policy being based on a device’s release date rather than its series. Consequently, the S21 FE will keep receiving monthly patches for a bit longer, offering a slight benefit to those who selected this model.
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## **Samsung Versus Its Rivals**
Samsung’s update strategy has established a new benchmark in the Android domain. With the Galaxy S25 series offering **seven years of updates**, the company is ahead of most rivals, including Google, which provides **five years of updates** for its Pixel devices. For Galaxy S21 owners, the shift to quarterly updates may seem like a regression, but it’s important to recognize that Samsung’s support still surpasses that of many other Android manufacturers.
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## **Other Models Still Enjoying Monthly Updates**
As the Galaxy S21 series transitions to quarterly updates, numerous other Samsung devices continue to be eligible for monthly security patches. These comprise:
– **Galaxy Z Fold 3, Z Flip 3, Z Fold 4, Z Flip 4, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5**
– **Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6**
– **Enterprise models such as the Galaxy A53 5G**
– **Galaxy W series (W23, W24, W25, and their Flip models)**
Moreover, Samsung is providing security updates for its wearables, including the **Galaxy Watch 4**, **Watch 5**, **Watch 6**, and the anticipated **Galaxy Watch Ultra**.
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## **Future Steps for Galaxy S21 Users**
As the transition
