Tech News – Samsung, the South Korean tech giant, has revealed a list of 11 smartphones that will no longer receive software update support in 2025. This move comes as the company introduces its latest user interface, OneUI 7, which provides security updates and a more immersive experience for users.
The introduction of OneUI 7 marks a significant milestone for Samsung, as it aims to provide a more seamless and intuitive user experience across its range of smartphones. With OneUI 7, users can expect to enjoy a host of new features, including improved performance, enhanced security, and a more personalized interface.
However, as Samsung moves forward with its latest user interface, it has also decided to discontinue software update support for 11 of its older smartphone models. This move is likely to impact users who are still relying on these devices, and may leave them vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues with newer apps and services.
The affected smartphones, which include a mix of entry-level, mid-range, and flagship models, were released between 2020 and 2021. While these devices will no longer receive software update support, Samsung has assured users that they will still be able to use their devices, albeit without the latest security patches and feature updates.
Why Did Samsung Drop Support for These Smartphones?
The reason behind Samsung’s decision to drop support for these smartphones is due to their inability to run the latest OneUI 7 interface optimally. The affected devices, which range from entry-level to flagship models, were released between 2020 and 2021.
The List of Affected Smartphones
Here are the 11 Samsung smartphones that will no longer receive software update support:
- Samsung Galaxy A02s
- Samsung Galaxy A12
- Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus 5G
- Samsung Galaxy S20 5G
- Samsung Galaxy W21 5G (rebranded device of Galaxy Z Fold 2 5G in China)
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2
- Samsung Galaxy S20
- Samsung Galaxy A02s
- Samsung Galaxy A12
What Does This Mean for Users?
Although these smartphones will no longer receive software update support, Samsung will still provide one to two updates for some of the affected devices. However, users can expect to face incompatibility issues with new applications and services in the future. Moreover, stopping operating system security updates will make these smartphones more vulnerable to malware attacks, which can lead to theft of personal data and other security risks.
Samsung’s Software Update Policy
Samsung has promised software update support for its high-end smartphones for the next seven years, starting from the launch of the Galaxy S24 series in early 2024. However, this promise does not apply to the Galaxy S20 series, which was released in March 2020. The Galaxy S20 series will only receive updates for five years, making 2025 the last year of update support for these devices.
What’s Next for Samsung Users?
If you’re using one of the affected smartphones, it’s time to consider upgrading to a newer device. Samsung offers a range of options, from entry-level to flagship models, that come with longer OS and security support. Some of the devices that are eligible for longer software update support include the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G and A16 4G.
Conclusion
The decision to discontinue software update support for these smartphones is likely to be seen as a natural part of the product lifecycle, as technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace. However, it may still come as a disappointment to users who have grown accustomed to receiving regular updates and security patches for their devices.
As Samsung continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible with smartphone technology, it is likely that we will see more devices being added to the list of those that are no longer supported. However, for now, users of the affected smartphones will need to weigh their options carefully, and consider whether it is time to upgrade to a newer device that is supported by the latest software updates.
