News
Samsung Galaxy S21 Android 13 update, One UI 5.0 release date, Beta and more
In early 2021, Samsung launched the Galaxy S21 series flagships, pre-loaded with Android 11-based One UI 3.1 software. The Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra were the first to receive the Android 12-based One UI 4 Beta/Stable version, while eligible for three more major upgrades including the Android 13.
Up from the regular three OS updates promise, Samsung extended the support to four years for the Galaxy S21 series devices. Aside from the major Android and One UI upgrades, the company has also promised to deliver at least five years of regular security patches.
Join SammyFans on Telegram
After the Android 12-based One UI 4.0 and One UI 4.1 updates, Samsung Galaxy S21 series phones are now eligible and eager to receive the upcoming Android 13-based One UI 5 (Beta/Stable) version. To be mentioned, Google debuted Android 13 on the Developer Preview channel back in February 2022, while it is limited to Pixel phones.
Galaxy S21 Android 13 Beta Status
Similar to the last year, Samsung’s latest Galaxy S series devices became eligible to get the Android 13-based One UI 5 Beta update, among others. However, the Samsung Galaxy S21 series also joined the party with the Android 13-based One UI 5 Beta in a handful of countries.
- On September 21, Samsung released the One UI 5.0 Beta 2 for Galaxy S21 in the US.
- On September 8, the Galaxy S21’s One UI 5.0 Beta program expanded to India.
- On August 30, Samsung started the One UI 5.0 Beta program in South Korea and UK
- On August 6, the Korean tech giant showcased the One UI 5, based on Android 13, Beta ROM for the Galaxy S22 series devices. Read more
Galaxy S21 Android 13 Release Date
If the company goes the same as rumors, the One UI 5 will be live for Galaxy consumers in July, while the Stable distribution is likely to happen after about two months of Beta testing. Accordingly, we can expect the Android 13′ arrival for the Galaxy S21 series later this year.
- Release Date – October 2022 [Expected]
Latest News
October 11, 2022
Samsung released third One UI 5.0 Beta update for the Galaxy S21 series smartphones in the Korean market. The latest ZVJ3 build comes with plenty of bug fixes and improvements for an even more stable system and functional performance. Check bugs that have been fixed below:
- Improved that Favorites and Recent items can be added and removed in Gallery album
- Fixed the issue executed sleep mode automatically
- Fixed the issue occurred vibration sound/beep sound continuously
- Fixed crash when entering App folder
- Fixed crash when changing Wallpapers
- Fixed crash in S pen Air Command
- Fixed the problem for Object eraser not working
- Fixed vibration feedback not working in Home gesture
- Fixed the frame breaking issue when entering from Widget to Home
- Deleted Multi-user function
- Other minor bug fixes
October 10, 2022
A new One UI 5.0 Beta build has been spotted for the Galaxy S21 series on Samsung Server which has version number ZVJ2 and includes October 2022 security patch.
New updated One UI 5 beta build found for S21 series on Server with Oct Patch as I in build number changes to J.
Its same as S22 series
ZVJ2 is now latest one..
ZVII>>ZVJ2
I hope Rollout is really soon and tomorrow is the day
— Tarun Vats (@tarunvats33) October 5, 2022
October 1, 2022
Samsung releases the second One UI 5.0 Beta update for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21 Plus and Galaxy S21 Ultra smartphone users in the US. It comes with several bug fixes that have been reported by Beta participants with the initial Beta update.
Build Version – ZVIE
Changelog
- Fixed One UI crashes during normal usage
- Fixed One UI crashes when opening any folder
- Fixed Themes crashes after opening wallpaper in setting
- Fixed the issue that Camera keeps stopping
- Fixed force close and “can’t take screenshot due to security policy” pop up coming while taking screenshot from device
- Fixed the issue that Settings has stopped force close occur when we tap on color by keyword option
- Fixed Edge lightning style subtext not updated and option not working in Dex mode after select any option under the edge lightning style
- Fixed the issue that text is shown cropped when open Air command commands in split screen view
- Fixed the issue that Camera quick launch is not working
- Fixed the issue that Camera switch to Front and Rear is not working when double press power key in Camera
- Fixed the issue that Video editor crash occur when edit video
- Fixed the issue that Force close is occurring while entering in clock application if timer selected
- Fixed the issue that Camera preview is appearing black and not working while switching guest to owner mode
- Fixed the issue of not able to change single chat notification in message app
- Fixed the issue that force close is occuring while adding right app shortcut after deletion
- Fixed the issue that force close is occuring while editing video in popup view
- Fixed the issue that Call screen UI is not correct in guest mode
September 21, 2022
Samsung announced the Android 13-based One UI 5.0 Beta testing program for the carrier unlocked units of the Galaxy S21, S21+ and S21 Ultra in the US.
September 11, 2022
On September 8, Samsung expanded the Android 13-based One UI 5.0 Beta testing activity for the Galaxy S21 series devices in India.
August 30, 2022
Samsung confirms that the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+ and Galaxy S21 Ultra smartphone users are now eligible to join the One UI 5.0 Beta program in South Korea, in order to start experiencing the Android 13 OS ahead of its stable release.
August 19, 2022
Samsung released the first One UI 5.0 Beta for the Galaxy S22 series devices. However, it seems like the company is already working on the development of the Android 13-based One UI 5.0 Beta for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+ and Galaxy S21 Ultra smartphones in South Korea.
- Firmware versions:
- G991NKSU3ZVHA
- G996NKSU3ZVHA
- G998NKSU3ZVHA
August 08, 2022
According to RPRNA, SamMobile heard that Samsung has started internal testing of the Android 13-based One UI 5.0 firmware on the Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, S20, S20+, and S20 Ultra devices. However, the blog has not heard anything (like release date, Beta availability) other than what everyone knows!
August 05, 2022
Seems like, Samsung has delayed the One UI 5 Beta program for the Galaxy devices as Google shifted the official Android 13 launch to September. Meanwhile, a screenshot, shared by a Reddit user, suggests that T-Mobile US is testing the Android 13 firmware on the Galaxy S21 Ultra.
July 23, 2022
Going by the information shared by the user, Samsung Galaxy S21 One UI 5.0/One UI 4.1.1 update is testing in the UK and it carries the One UI build version G998BXXU5DVGA. We know that after the Galaxy S22, the Galaxy S21 series is most eligible to get the One UI 5.0 beta update.
July 9, 2022
Samsung is likely to start the Android 13 Beta program for Galaxy devices in the third week, while we just got our first look at One UI 5 Beta design and UI changes. Check it out here
May 29, 2022
Google has released the Android 13 Beta 2.1 for the Pixel devices that had already joined the Beta testing program. It comes with fixes for some major issues for a better user experience, meanwhile, you can check the changelog mentioned below.
- Fixed an issue where typing in the search bar resulted in a blank list of suggestions.
- Fixed an issue where devices would crash and restart when turning on the hotspot.
- Fixed an issue where a continuous call dialing sound could be heard in the background during a phone call.
- Fixed an issue where devices would crash and restart after disconnecting from Android Auto.
May 20
Recently, we’ve checked the Beta Operations Manager’s activity landing page, which has had no changes since January this year. We will continue to provide the latest insights regarding the Android 13 and One UI 5.0 update development for your Galaxy devices, so stay tuned…
April 29
Samsung has started releasing the May 2022 security patch to the Galaxy S22 series smartphone users starting April 25. As of now, the update is available in various Asian countries, while today reached the T-Mobile variants in the United States. Read more
April 21
In February 2022, Google released the Android 13 Developer Preview for eligible Pixel devices, however, the stable version may likely debut in October this year. However, the US tech giant will share more details about the new OS at its annual conference AKA Google I/O 2022.
News
Samsung Galaxy S25 to offer 7 years of One UI software updates: Will you use it for that long?
I have been using Samsung Galaxy phones since they all ran on TouchWiz. Later, the company moved to the One UI custom skin, which is based on Android OS.
Initially, Samsung started giving up to 2 years of major OS updates and 3 years of security patches. This policy was changed in 2020 to 3 major OS updates and 4 years of security patches, starting with the Galaxy S20 series, and later extended to other flagship devices, including the Galaxy Note 20 and Z series. Samsung then increased this to 4 years of major One UI software updates and 5 years of security patches for Galaxy S, Note, Z, A, XCover, and Tab series devices launched in 2019 or later.
From 2024, Samsung surpassed every other player in the smartphone market by providing up to 7 years of support including major OS and regular security patches. It is applicable for all the flagship smartphones launched in 2024 or later.
Now, why this history tour? Let me tell you the reason. Samsung is preparing to introduce the Galaxy S25 series next year, which is rumored for late January 2025. The S25 trio will support up to 7 years of One UI software support, as officially confirmed by Samsung at SDC 2024.
Samsung’s promise not only extends the life of the Galaxy smartphone but also ensures that your device is up to date with the latest features and regular security patches. But the real question for many users is, “Will you actually use the Galaxy S25 for that long period?”
Let’s dive into the details.
With One UI software updates, you will not only get regular security patches; you will also be receiving improvements that can transform your device’s user experience. From smarter battery management to more intuitive interfaces, One UI updates ensure that your Galaxy device, whether it’s the latest model or an older one, stays fresh and capable.
Latest Samsung Galaxy phones, especially the Galaxy S series, are built with top-tier materials and hardware inside. These phones are built to last, not just in physical durability, but also in performance capability. The promise of longer software support means it can do new things and work better, even after you have had it for years.
This will be the case with the Galaxy S25 series. The upcoming device is expected to be powered by cutting-edge processors, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, capable of running smoothly for years. There’s a rumor that the device will be packed with 16GB of RAM for better performance.
Over the years, the regular updates will improve the software to run more smoothly on the existing hardware, potentially making the device feel faster than when you first got it.
With such extended support, you could keep using your Galaxy S25 for a much longer time, reducing the need for frequent upgrades. It’s a smart move for anyone looking to save money.
This is where it becomes a personal choice: Do you see yourself sticking with the Galaxy S25 for 7 years?
From my perspective, if you are someone who loves the latest tech or your work requires the latest technology, you will probably upgrade before long. But if you’re more about practicality than having the newest thing, the Galaxy S25 could become a long-term partner.
The important point here is, smartphone batteries degrade over time. Samsung’s software updates often include battery optimization, but eventually, you might need to consider battery replacement if you want to keep the current smartphone with you for a longer time.
For durability, the Galaxy S25/Ultra will use titanium material, but even with robust build quality, some serious physical damages like broken screens, water damage, or just wanting something new might make you switch devices before the software support period ends.
There’s one more thing to consider: if you are into beta testing and love playing with new features before they are out for everyone, you might want to upgrade your phone every two to three years. That’s because Samsung usually only offers the One UI beta program to its newest models. For instance, the One UI 7.0 beta is expected to be exclusive to the Galaxy S24 and S23 series, leaving the S22 series out of the loop.
My Final View:
Samsung’s promise of 7 years of One UI software support for the Galaxy S25 is extraordinary in the smartphone industry. How long you will keep your S25 depends on things like if you love new technology/gadgets, your daily life, and how you take care of your phone.
But knowing that you can keep your Galaxy S25 up-to-date for 7 years might just change how we think about smartphone longevity. Only time will tell, but for now, Samsung’s promise is a game-changer for users looking for enduring tech solutions. I will keep the Galaxy S25 Ultra for 7 years, and my Samsung Galaxy Note9 is still on my desk, saying Hi.
Disclaimer
There is no official confirmation from Samsung on the name of the device or specifications. As with any pre-release tech speculation, actual products may differ when launched.
News
Samsung flips the foldable market script with bold comeback
Samsung made a strong return in the worldwide foldable market in the third quarter of the year. IDC reports that the global foldable smartphone market had a sharp shakeup during the July-September period this year.
The company faced intense competition from Chinese brands in the first half of 2024. However, its aggressive strategy and innovative devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 have pushed it back to the forefront once again.
IDC highlights that the foldable market grew by 23.6% during the third quarter. It shows the gradually increasing shift toward the new form factor. Huawei recently launched the world’s first tri-fold phone which has two foldable screens.
In particular, Samsung’s share in the foldable market rose from 14.8% in Q2 to 51.2% in Q3. This impressive performance is a testament to the success of their latest foldable handsets and targetted marketing strategies.
Xiaomi, Honor, Huawei, and Motorola continue to be formidable players, collectively holding a 48.8% market share in the quarter ended on September 30. Among them, Samsung foldables are only available in the mass market.
Samsung working on its tri-fold phone. Recently, the US patent authority published a Samsung patent, revealing its plans for new form factors. The company may launch rollable and tri-fold display smartphones in the future.
Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition
Samsung launched a slimmer and larger foldable phone – Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition – in South Korea and China. The initial three stocks in Korea and the first in China sold out within minutes after the opening of the sale.
It is expected that the next Galaxy Z Fold, which will launch in 2025, will be inspired by the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition’s design and specifications. A durable hinge and display will likely debut alongside a powerful camera setup.
News
Samsung May Launch Galaxy S25 Slim Sooner Than Expected
Samsung could launch Galaxy S25 Slim alongside the S25 series next year. Recently, the launch date of the Galaxy S25 series has been allegedly revealed. The report also indicates that the S25 Slim’s official unveiling could also happen at the same time.
According to FNNews, Galaxy S25 Slim could launch at Samsung Unpacked 2025 alongside the S25 series. With the S24 series earlier this year, Samsung shared a sneak peek at the Galaxy Ring, which went on sale in July this year.
The next big product could be a sleek smartphone. We’ve heard April 2025 is the Galaxy S25 Slim launch timeframe. The revelation of the S25 Slim is worth looking at as it could bring potential Galaxy S26 series design changes.
Samsung is making sure the development of the Slim model to completed sooner. If the development and testing conclude early, the S25 Slim may come out alongside the Galaxy S25 series in January 2025 itself.
The Korean tech giant aiming for an early launch to gain an advantage in the thickness competition with Apple. The iPhone maker is also reportedly working on a thinner model, which could be marked as the iPhone Air next year.
Pay attention, the S25 Slim will be as powerful as the S25 flagship. The only difference could be in thickness, which is yet to be known. Meanwhile, the report suggests that the S25 Slim could measure less than 7.6mm thickness.
The slim model has the same performance as the Galaxy S25 but is thinner and more convenient. The specific thickness has not been disclosed yet, but it is likely to be thinner than the vanilla Galaxy S24 (7.6mm).