Samsung Has Ended Software Support for Most Galaxy S21 Series Models.
Starting with the 2024 Galaxy S24 series, Samsung began promising seven years of software support for its new phones, following Google’s lead with the Pixel 8. This was a surprisingly convenient and even environmentally responsible move, allowing buyers to use their phones longer and reducing the amount of e-waste generated by constant updates. Unfortunately, this didn’t extend to previous models, and we’re now beginning to see the consequences.
Samsung’s February 2026 security updates (first spotted by SamMobile ) don’t mention the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra, indicating their end of support. The only phone from this lineup still listed is the S21 FE 5G, which makes sense, as it was released a year after the rest of the S21 lineup. This means these phones will no longer receive regular monthly or quarterly security updates, although Samsung may issue an emergency patch if a critical vulnerability is discovered.
None of this should be surprising, but it can still be confusing for S21 owners. To be fair, Samsung initially promised only five years of support for the S21 series and just four years of Android updates. But as far as hardware goes, your phone is probably still working perfectly. The Snapdragon 888 chip used in the S21 series is fast enough for everyday use, though it can be a bit power-hungry . Do you really need to replace it, especially so soon after launch?
Can I still use the Galaxy S21 series?
When it comes to browsing the internet, watching videos, and social media, your Galaxy S21 should still perform well. Gaming and other resource-intensive tasks may experience some hiccups, but other than wear and tear, there shouldn’t be any physical issues with the phone. The real concern comes when it comes to security.
Regular security updates help patch vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit to access your data or accounts. And hackers have become quite sophisticated these days. While you may know to avoid questionable websites or high-risk apps , there are now vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit without your knowledge. Sometimes, all it takes is a Bluetooth module in your device or a hacker knowing your phone number .
Falling victim to such hacker attacks may be rare, but it’s not worth the risk if you can avoid it. It’s like driving without a seatbelt—you probably won’t get into an accident, but you’ll regret not wearing one. The best way to ensure your phone’s security is up-to-date is to update to the latest version with official security updates from the manufacturer, but if that’s not possible, there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself.
Install Google Play system updates to improve security on your unsupported phone.
Receiving over-the-air updates directly from your phone manufacturer is the best way to ensure security, but it’s not the only way to get security updates. Starting with Android 10, which includes the Galaxy S21 series, Google’s Project Mainline began providing partial security updates through Google Play System Updates.
These patches won’t fix all vulnerabilities, but they will allow Google to patch holes in media codecs and components, permissions, and other features that hackers like to exploit, even on devices no longer officially supported by their manufacturers. “With Project Mainline, we can fix critical security issues faster,” the company said in a blog post . “For example, by modularizing media components, which account for nearly 40% of recently patched vulnerabilities.”
The Mainline project can’t fix every issue, especially those specific to your device, but if you find your phone is out of date, it’s worth making sure your Google Play system updates are up to date until you find a new one. The method for checking will vary depending on your device, but these updates are typically found under Settings > System > Software Updates . Here, you’ll see a date indicating which Google Play system update is currently installed on your phone. Updates typically need to be installed manually every month, but if the date seems a bit out of date, you can simply tap it to find the new update and download it.
When should you update your Samsung phone?
Ideally, software support ending should be taken as a signal to upgrade your phone, even if it seems to be working fine. But I understand your hesitation. I still use Windows 10, which has its own security update issues , though my device still works perfectly for everything I need it to. I’m glad to see companies starting to implement extended security updates, so I hope this issue will become less of a concern in the future. Technology advances quickly, but a five-year update cycle seems far more wasteful than even a seven-year one.
For now, however, keep in mind that any Samsung phone released before 2024 will face end-of-support sooner than you think, so it’s time to start planning accordingly. The company may have switched to a seven-year update program, but that promise isn’t retroactive. So, Galaxy S22 owners, it’s time to start thinking about what you’ll do with your devices next year.