Key Takeaways
1. Samsung has not released a stable version of One UI 7 for Galaxy devices as of early March 2025, disappointing many users.
2. The challenges of timely software updates are compounded by Samsung’s wide range of devices and the complexities of the update process.
3. Samsung has historically been a leader in Android software updates, but the delay in One UI 7 is damaging its reputation.
4. The stable release of One UI 7 was announced to be delayed until 2025, with Galaxy S25 already shipping with the update.
5. Future updates like One UI 7.1 may be at risk, and transparency about update timelines is needed to maintain user trust.
We are nearing the start of March 2025, yet Samsung has not rolled out a single stable version of One UI 7 for its Galaxy devices. There hasn’t even been a word on when Galaxy users might expect the update. This is quite disappointing given Samsung’s reputation for setting high standards in software updates over the past few years.
Challenges of Device Updates
Samsung offers a wide range of devices and adds many more each year. Delivering timely software updates for all these devices is a tough task due to the extensive planning, development, testing, and deployment needed. Nonetheless, Samsung has made significant improvements in its update process, enhancing the software experience for Galaxy users.
Samsung’s Update Reputation
The progress Samsung has made over the years arguably makes it the top Android brand for software updates. It has become standard for Samsung to launch security patches even before Google does, and their major update releases have been quite impressive as well.
Typically, Samsung starts its beta program at the beginning of the fourth quarter and releases stable versions for many Galaxy flagships by the year’s end. This has been the pattern in previous years, but it took a turn for the worse with Android 15. The One UI 7 beta program began in early December for the Galaxy S24 series, but it was delayed. Even more disappointing is the fact that Samsung didn’t extend the beta program to other devices, leaving users waiting for the stable update.
Uncertain Release Timeline
During the annual developer conference in October 2024, Samsung announced that a stable release wouldn’t happen until 2025. Now, as we approach March 2025, there is still no sign of the stable update on any Galaxy device. This appears unreasonable, especially since the Galaxy S25, released in January, already comes with stable One UI 7, and the new Galaxy A06 5G (priced at $110) ships with One UI 7 out of the box.
The exact reason for this delay in One UI 7 is unknown, but many speculate it is intentional to boost Galaxy S25 sales. Regardless of the reason, this holdup is damaging Samsung’s reputation, which it has built over the years through its solid software update policy and quick rollout. I’ve noticed a number of Galaxy users expressing their desire to switch to other brands due to this delay on forums and subreddits.
Future of One UI Updates
This substantial delay in the One UI 7 rollout may lead Samsung to scrap One UI 7.1 since there might not be enough time to implement it without impacting future updates. Software is crucial to the success of Galaxy devices, and any major delays could harm the trust Samsung has nurtured over the years. The company should be more transparent about any delays and clearly outline its software plans, which would help strengthen its relationship with users.
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