Key Takeaways
1. Samsung has begun rolling out the One UI 8.0 update for the Galaxy S21 FE, marking the completion of its major OS upgrade cycle with Android 16.
2. The update introduces new features, including a redesigned Samsung Internet browser, enhanced customization options, and improved automation in the Modes And Routines app.
3. Users can expect security updates for at least another year, although the frequency has changed from monthly to quarterly.
4. Some features from One UI 8 are not included in the Galaxy S21 FE update, such as the “Best Face” camera function and AI-driven wallpaper suggestions.
5. The update rollout is currently taking place in Thailand and Vietnam, with a file size over 2GB, recommending a Wi-Fi connection for download.
Samsung has started distributing the highly anticipated One UI 8.0 update for the Galaxy S21 FE, which introduces a variety of new features and enhancements. This update is a major milestone for users, marking the fourth significant One UI upgrade for this Fan Edition model and fulfilling Samsung’s commitment to software support. According to the company’s initial support plan, this Android 16-based update represents the final major OS version that the device will receive.
Software History of the Galaxy S21 FE
The software path for the Galaxy S21 FE began with its release in early 2022, which came with Android 12 (One UI 4.0) already installed. Later that same year, it received the Android 13 update, followed by Android 14 in late 2023. A few months ago, the phone was updated to Android 15, and now the rollout of the Android 16 build marks the end of its major upgrade cycle. However, this does not imply that the phone is left vulnerable. Users can expect security updates for at least another year. It’s also important to mention that Samsung has recently changed the S21 FE’s security update frequency from monthly to quarterly, so these updates will come less often.
New Features in One UI 8.0
One UI 8.0 introduces a number of improvements. Users will observe a refreshed design for the Samsung Internet browser, Quick Share, and the Weather app, which now boasts more lifelike visuals. The update also enhances customization options for the lock screen and Quick Panel. For those interested in automation, the Modes And Routines app has been upgraded to include more available actions and conditions, with new presets and the option to gather data from apps like Clock and Calendar. Other useful additions include a scientific calculator that now works in portrait mode and enhanced Samsung DeX support that allows for WQHD output.
Features Not Included in the Update
Although this update brings a lot of changes, it does not encompass all the new features of One UI 8. The S21 FE’s version misses several features, such as the “Best Face” camera function, AI-driven wallpaper suggestions from the Gallery, and the “Adaptive lock screen clock.”
The rollout of the Android 16 update is currently underway for Galaxy S21 FE users in Thailand and Vietnam. The firmware is tagged with the version number G990EXXUIHYJ2 and contains the security patch from September 2025. The download size exceeds 2GB, so it’s advisable to use a Wi-Fi connection. If you’re located in these areas, you can check for the update by going to Settings, selecting Software update, and then tapping Download and Install. Once the file is downloaded, simply hit the Install now button to start the installation process.







