Tag: Galaxy s21

  • Samsung Galaxy 2021 Flagships End Major Software Updates

    Samsung Galaxy 2021 Flagships End Major Software Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has ended software support for the Galaxy S21 series, which includes the S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra, as the Galaxy S26 is about to be unveiled.
    2. The Galaxy S21 series received four years of software updates, while the iPhone 13 is expected to receive updates until at least 2027.
    3. Samsung now offers seven years of major updates for its latest devices, including the Galaxy S24 and S25, matching Google’s Pixel 10.
    4. S21 FE owners and 2021 foldable device users (Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3) will continue to receive support for a longer period.
    5. The trend of longer software support helps maintain device usability, benefiting both consumers and the environment.

    With only a few weeks left until the unveiling of the Galaxy S26 and S26 Ultra, Samsung has officially ended software support for its flagship models from 2021: the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra, as noted by Phandroid.

    Expected End of Support

    This development isn’t shocking, as Samsung had originally committed to providing software updates for a period of four years when these devices were launched. In contrast, the Apple iPhone 13, which debuted the same year, is expected to receive software updates until at least 2027, based on past patterns. Users of the S21 lineup will likely still receive security patches, enabling them to extend the life of these older devices a bit longer.

    New Promises for Future Devices

    However, the situation shifted with the introduction of the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S25, during which Samsung began to offer an impressive seven years of major updates. The Google Pixel 10 (currently priced at $649 on Amazon) also guarantees the same seven-year update policy.

    Given the increasing power of flagship smartphones and advancements in battery technology, it makes sense to keep these high-end devices usable for as long as possible, benefiting both the environment and our wallets.

    Support Continues for Other Models

    Meanwhile, S21 FE owners can feel reassured for a bit longer, since that model was released nearly a year later. The same situation applies to Samsung’s foldable devices from 2021, namely the Z Fold 3 and the Z Flip 3.

    In short, while the S21 series may no longer receive major software updates, there are still viable options for extending the usability of other Samsung devices.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S21 Series and Foldable Phones Get One UI 7 Update

    Samsung Galaxy S21 Series and Foldable Phones Get One UI 7 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has resumed the rollout of One UI 7 updates after addressing issues that affected the Galaxy S24 series.
    2. The Galaxy S21 series (S21, S21 Plus, S21 Ultra) has received One UI 7 updates earlier than expected in South Korea.
    3. One UI 7 updates are also being released for the Galaxy Z Flip3 and Z Fold3 in South Korea.
    4. The Galaxy S24 FE is starting to receive One UI 7 updates in India.
    5. A comprehensive list of devices eligible for One UI 7 updates will be available in future articles.

    Samsung has rolled out a new batch of stable One UI 7 updates for its older devices, overcoming several challenges that arose early in the process. To summarize, the first One UI 7 versions were discovered to have a problem that stopped some Galaxy S24 series phones from locking properly. Consequently, Samsung paused the release of its Android 15-based update, but later resumed it with corrected versions.

    Updates for Galaxy S21 Series

    The upgrade has now begun for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21 Plus, and Galaxy S21 Ultra, alongside the Galaxy Z Flip3 and Galaxy Z Fold3, which were also launched that year. Interestingly, the Galaxy S21 series has received One UI 7 a bit earlier than expected, and it should have arrived in South Korea with the build number G99xNKSU8HYD9.

    Galaxy Z Flip3 and Z Fold3 Updates

    In addition, Samsung is now sending out One UI 7 in its home country for the Galaxy Z Flip3 and Galaxy Z Fold3, with build numbers F711NKSU8KYD9 and F926NKSU7KYD9, respectively. Furthermore, One UI 7 is gradually making its way to the Galaxy S24 FE (currently priced at $499 on Amazon) as well, starting in India. For a comprehensive list of devices that will be eligible for One UI 7 in the next weeks and months, check out our previous article on One UI 7.

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  • Samsung One UI 7 Now Available for More Devices

    Samsung One UI 7 Now Available for More Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung will start rolling out One UI 7 based on Android 15 on April 7 for 19 devices.
    2. Initially, only a few devices were listed, but the update now includes older models like the Galaxy S21 and S22 series.
    3. All Galaxy Z foldables from Galaxy Z Flip3 and Z Fold3 will receive the One UI 7 update.
    4. The Galaxy Tab S8 series and Galaxy Tab S6 Lite are also included in the update eligibility.
    5. There is skepticism about the 2020 version of the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite receiving the update, as it still lacks One UI 6.

    Hardly any time has gone by since Samsung made it known which devices will start getting One UI 7 next month. In brief, the company stated that 19 devices will be able to get the update based on Android 15 starting on April 7.

    Expanded Device List

    For some unknown reason, the company only listed the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S24, Galaxy Tab S9, and Galaxy Tab S10 series, along with its fifth and sixth-generation foldable phones. As we mentioned earlier, it did imply that this was merely the start of the One UI 7 rollout, a point backed up by a fresh press release from Samsung Singapore.

    Now, Samsung has broadened the list to include older flagship models such as the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S22 series, plus all Galaxy Z foldables back to the Galaxy Z Flip3 and Galaxy Z Fold3 (currently $429 – renewed on Amazon). The latest press release from Samsung also verifies that One UI 7 will be available for the Galaxy Tab S8 series and the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite.

    Update Speculation

    However, it seems improbable that the 2020 version of the latter will get the update, especially since it still lacks One UI 6. Below is the list for the newly expanded eligibility for One UI 7. We’ve indicated which devices will get Audio Eraser, Drawing Assist, and Writing Assist when applicable.

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  • Starlink Internet Now Compatible with iPhones on iOS 18.3

    Starlink Internet Now Compatible with iPhones on iOS 18.3

    When SpaceX made history by sending the first tweet from space to a phone located in a remote area without any cell tower, they showcased a Samsung device for this groundbreaking event.

    The same goes for the initial video streaming session that T-Mobile was the first carrier to engage in, utilizing Starlink’s direct-to-cell service. Interestingly, the phone used was found to be a Verizon Galaxy S21, diverging from the expected T-Mobile model. However, this demonstration aimed to show that Starlink’s satellite service can work with any unmodified carrier phone, unlike the cumbersome satellite phones from the past.

    iPhones Enter the Scene

    Now, it appears that iPhones have also become part of the Starlink direct-to-cell satellite connectivity initiative, with insiders revealing that Apple has been collaborating with SpaceX for some time. This new Starlink service provides an alternative to Apple’s own partnership with Globalstar, which focuses on emergency satellite connectivity for iPhones.

    Recently, SpaceX completed the launch of the first shell of its direct-to-cell satellite constellation, which includes about 330 Starlink satellites. This initial constellation allows users to send messages, exchange images, and stream podcasts, as shared by Elon Musk. The next phase is expected to introduce streaming video in locations where traditional carrier networks are unavailable.

    Beta Testing and Future Support

    At this time, T-Mobile is rolling out a beta version of the Starlink service, limited to short messaging via satellites. Selected iPhone users in the beta program are being notified that they can now text using Starlink satellites, provided they update their devices to the latest iOS 18.3 version.

    T-Mobile has mentioned that the direct-to-cell service is launching with “optimized” devices, and Apple has reportedly been working hard to ensure that its iPhones meet these criteria. Elon Musk hinted at Starlink’s potential when Apple teamed up with Globalstar for the iPhone 14, indicating that Apple has chosen to pursue SpaceX’s option. Once the Starlink connectivity feature exits beta testing, T-Mobile asserts that it will be compatible with most newer mobile phones.

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  • Samsung offers free display replacement for Galaxy S21 and S22

    Samsung offers free display replacement for Galaxy S21 and S22

    We have received reports regarding green line issues on certain Samsung Galaxy devices since the previous year. This problem is primarily affecting models featuring Super AMOLED displays.

    Samsung's Initiative for Display Replacement

    Given the widespread nature of this issue, Samsung has initiated a program offering a one-time free display replacement in specific markets. One such market is India, where the company has been providing this service since last year.

    Extended Coverage to Newer Samsung Models

    Initially, devices eligible for the free display replacement included the Samsung Galaxy S20 and Note 20 series. However, as newer Samsung smartphones are encountering similar problems, Samsung has expanded the program to encompass the Galaxy S21 and S22 series as well.

    Importance of Addressing Green Line Issues

    The presence of green lines on the screen can significantly impede the device's usability. Simple tasks like opening applications can become frustrating under such circumstances.

    Deadline for Availing the Free Replacement Offer

    To assist affected users, Samsung is offering not just a free display replacement but also a complimentary battery and kit replacement for the impacted devices. It is essential to note that there is a deadline associated with this offer. To avail of the free replacements, individuals must schedule an appointment at a Samsung Service Center by April 30th, 2024.

    Enhancing Device Longevity

    This program essentially provides affected users with a free refurbishment for their devices. Given that the Galaxy S21 and S22 series continue to receive software updates and boast relatively modern hardware, this complimentary repair could significantly enhance the lifespan of these smartphones.

    Seizing the Opportunity in India

    For individuals in India who possess a Galaxy S20, Note 20, S21, or S22 displaying green lines, it is advisable to promptly book an appointment at the nearest Samsung Service Center before the deadline of April 30th, 2024. Embrace this opportunity to rectify your phone-related issues and continue enjoying its functionalities for years ahead.

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