These Samsung Phones Are Losing Android and Security Updates Soon

Samsung has become one of the strongest Android brands for long-term software support, particularly on newer flagship devices. Its latest premium Galaxy phones and tablets are promised up to seven years of operating system and security updates, while many mid-range models now receive support for as long as six years.

That is a significant advantage in a market where many competing brands still limit even their high-end devices to around five years of updates. However, older Galaxy phones launched in 2021 and 2022 are now approaching — or have already reached — the end of their official support windows.

For owners, that does not mean a phone will suddenly stop working. It does mean that major One UI releases, Android upgrades and eventually monthly security patches will stop arriving.

Which Galaxy phones are close to end of support?

Samsung does not publish a single, consumer-friendly list showing when every device will stop receiving software updates. The following timeline is based on the company’s stated support policy for each model and provides a useful indication of which Galaxy phones may soon need replacing.

What end of support actually means

A Galaxy phone does not become unusable when it reaches the end of its update policy. It can continue making calls, running apps, taking photos and handling everyday tasks for years.

The issue is that it will no longer receive new Android versions, One UI features or visual changes. More importantly, once security support ends, the phone stops receiving patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities.

That increases long-term risk, especially for users who store sensitive information, use mobile banking apps, keep work accounts on their device or regularly download apps and files from outside trusted sources.

The difference between the end of Android updates and the end of security patches is also important. For example, the Galaxy S22 series may no longer receive major Android releases after February 2026, but it is expected to continue receiving security updates until February 2027.

Fold 3 and Flip 3 users face the nearest deadline

The Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 are among the devices closest to losing all official support. Their final Android upgrade period reportedly ended in August 2025, while security patch coverage is expected to conclude in August 2026.

That makes the two 2021 foldables the most urgent upgrade candidates on this list. They remain capable devices, but users who rely on them for banking, work, sensitive communications or long-term use should start considering a replacement with extended security support.

Galaxy S21 FE 5G, Galaxy S22 models and Galaxy A53 5G are in a similar position. Their major Android update windows have reportedly ended, while security patches are expected to continue into 2027.

The Galaxy S23 still has time left

Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+ and Galaxy S23 Ultra owners are in a considerably better position. The 2023 flagship family is expected to receive major Android updates until February 2027 and security patches until February 2028.

The Galaxy A54 5G follows a similar path, with Android support expected through March 2027 and security patches continuing until March 2028.

Meanwhile, Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4 are expected to finish their major Android update cycle in August 2026, with security coverage continuing for another year.

When should you upgrade?

There is no need to replace a Galaxy phone simply because it has reached its final Android update. If the device still performs well and continues to receive security patches, it can remain a practical daily driver.

An upgrade becomes more sensible when:

• The device has stopped receiving security patches.

• Battery life, performance or storage limitations affect everyday use.

• Important applications begin requiring a newer Android version.

• You need newer security tools, AI features, camera capabilities or connectivity options.

• The cost of repairing the phone is close to the price of a newer model.

For buyers looking to keep a phone for several years, Samsung’s newer seven-year flagship models and six-year mid-range devices offer a substantially longer support horizon than the products listed above.