Samsung Ends Software Support for Galaxy S21 Series as New Flagships Approach

Samsung has officially sunset software support for its Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra flagships, as confirmed just weeks before the anticipated Galaxy S26 series launch. This move aligns with Samsung's original four-year update promise made at the devices' 2021 debut but contrasts sharply with Apple's support strategy for contemporaneous iPhones.

Owners of these devices will no longer receive security patches or software updates, creating potential vulnerability risks. Security experts strongly recommend upgrading to newer models for continued protection against emerging threats. The iPhone 13 series, released the same year, continues to receive iOS updates and is projected to maintain support through at least 2027 based on Apple's historical patterns.

This transition highlights Samsung's evolving update policy. While the S21 series capped at four years, newer Galaxy S24 and S25 models ship with seven years of promised OS and security updates. This extended support window matches Google's commitment for the upcoming Pixel 10, positioning both manufacturers closer to Apple's longevity standards.

Extended software support reflects broader industry shifts toward sustainability. Modern flagship processors like Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Samsung's Exynos 2400 deliver desktop-grade performance that remains capable for years. Combined with improving battery technologies, seven-year support cycles enable significant reductions in electronic waste while offering long-term cost savings.

Not all 2021 Samsung devices are affected equally. The Galaxy S21 FE, which launched nearly a year after the main series, continues receiving updates. Similarly, 2021 foldables including the Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 remain within their support windows.

As Samsung prepares its next-generation flagships, the S21 series' retirement underscores how quickly smartphone lifecycle expectations are evolving. Users seeking maximum longevity should prioritize devices with extended update guarantees.

Source: Phandroid