Apps & Software

Samsung Software Updates in 2026: Which Devices Still Get Them?

Understanding how long a smartphone remains supported with software updates is essential when deciding whether to keep using an older device or upgrade to a new one.

Radwan AbdulhadiEditor and technology writer

Published: October 11, 2026 · Updated: October 11, 2026 · 4 min read

Samsung Software Updates in 2026: Which Devices Still Get Them? — Image: Engadget

Understanding Samsung Update Timelines

Knowing how long your phone will get updates is important for deciding when to upgrade. Android 17 brought several productivity-focused improvements to smartphones this year, and naturally, the latest devices will support future updates for at least a couple of years. However, if you have a device that is inching toward its proverbial end of life, verifying update status helps determine if your phone will keep receiving new software. Samsung has already shipped Android 17-based One UI 9 on devices like the Galaxy Fold 8 series and the Flip 8, according to reporting by <a href="https://www.engadget.com/2280584/oldest-samsung-device-still-gets-software-updates-2026/">Engadget</a>.

While security updates are commonly sent to phones well past their prime, software updates that bring meaningful changes are not as common. That goes double for affordable devices in Samsung's A series. Longer support periods from smartphone makers represent a relatively new trend, meaning older-generation phones do not share that kind of longevity and may already be out of support entirely.

Support Tiers Across Smartphone Categories

How long a Samsung smartphone receives Android updates depends heavily on its designated device tier. Flagship models enjoy up to seven years of support, while mid-range devices get about five to six years. Budget models typically receive up to four years of support before software updates cease.

For flagship smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra are scheduled to end their Android updates in February 2027. Meanwhile, the S22 lineup and the S21 FE 5G lost support earlier this year. In the foldable category, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 finished their Android update cycles in August 2026, whereas the Fold 5, Flip 5, and newer models continue to receive regular updates.

Mid-Range and Budget Device Longevity

Affordable options see varied lifespans across generations. Samsung's Galaxy A06 4G lost Android updates in August 2026, but its 5G variant will continue receiving Android updates until February 2031. Other mid-tier models like the Galaxy A15 will receive updates until December 2027, while the A24 gets them until May 2027.

Additionally, the Galaxy A34 and A54 5G will get Android updates until March 2027. On the other hand, models such as the Galaxy A73 no longer receive updates as of April 2026. Keeping track of these end-of-life dates prevents consumers from purchasing outdated hardware that lacks modern software protections.

A Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and S26 smartphone next to each other. — Image related to the report from Engadget · Source: Engadget

Tablets and Wearables Support Status

Tablets also follow distinct update schedules depending on their hardware class. The Galaxy Tab S9, Galaxy Tab S9+, and Tab S9 Ultra will receive Android software updates until August 2027, while the Tab S9 FE+ and FE variants get them until October 2027.

Conversely, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ and A9 receive Android updates only until October 2026, limited to two generations of OS updates. Meanwhile, rugged devices like the Galaxy Active series offer extended coverage, with the Galaxy Tab Active 5 receiving updates until January 2028 and the Active 5 Pro supported until 2033.

For wearables, the Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro released in 2022 will continue to get Wear OS updates until December 2026, providing users with ongoing feature and security improvements on their wrists.

Risks and Signs of Unsupported Hardware

Manufacturers generally do not issue direct warnings before cutting users off from software and security updates. Device owners must look up their smartphone model online to verify support status. Official resources like the <a href="https://security.samsungmobile.com/workScope.smsb">Samsung</a> security update list offer helpful tracking tools. If a device's Settings app indicates it has not been updated in several months or years, the phone is likely no longer supported.

Purchasing a bargain refurbished model online can become problematic if it loses access to updates within a year. Losing security patches leaves devices vulnerable to new threats from hackers. Furthermore, as phones miss out on updates, applications slowly become incompatible with older operating systems. Strange pop-ups and unexplained apps draining internet data are clear indicators that a device may have been compromised and is due for an upgrade.