List of Samsung Phones Eligible for 6 Years of Android OS Updates (2024)

Sam

March 10, 2025

Samsung

Samsung has set a new benchmark in Android software updates, offering an industry-leading seven years of OS updates for its flagship smartphones like the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S25 series. Only Google matches this commitment for its Pixel devices. However, the real game-changer is Samsung’s decision to extend six years of Android updates to several mid-range and budget Galaxy phones—a move that puts it ahead of most competitors.

Samsung’s Mid-Range Phones Now Get Six Major Android Updates

Longer software support was once exclusive to premium flagship smartphones, but Samsung is changing that. Several new budget-friendly models will now receive six years of One UI and Android OS updates, along with six years of security patches. This surpasses even some recent flagship models, such as the Galaxy S23, which only gets four major updates.

List of Samsung Phones Eligible for Six Major Android Updates

  • Galaxy A56 5G
  • Galaxy A36 5G
  • Galaxy A26 5G
  • Galaxy A16
  • Galaxy A16 5G
  • Galaxy M16 5G

These devices will receive extended One UI support and Android updates, ensuring users get the latest features, performance improvements, and security enhancements for years to come.

Android Version Support for New Galaxy Phones

Samsung’s commitment to long-term software support means that:

  • Galaxy A56, A36, A26, and M16 will ship with One UI 7 (Android 15) and receive updates up to Android 21.
  • Galaxy A16 and A16 5G, launching with Android 14, will receive updates until Android 20.

This move ensures budget-conscious buyers can enjoy flagship-level software longevity without spending a premium.

Samsung’s Software Update Evolution

Samsung has come a long way from its earlier two-year update cycle. In 2022, the company introduced four years of OS updates for its flagship and mid-range devices, a major leap forward. Google still had the edge with five years of Android updates at the time, but Samsung quickly closed the gap.

Samsung
Image Credit: Sammy Fans

With the Galaxy S24 series, Samsung took another step forward by matching Google’s seven-year update policy. However, mid-range and budget devices were still limited—until now. The Galaxy A16 series was the first budget-friendly lineup to benefit from six major Android updates, and now this policy extends to even more affordable models.

How Samsung’s Software Support Compares to Other Android Brands

Most Android smartphone brands still lag behind when it comes to long-term updates:

  • Google: 7 years (Pixel devices)
  • Samsung: 7 years (flagships), 6 years (selected mid-range models)
  • Oppo: 5 years (premium devices only)
  • Other Android brands: 3-4 years at most

Samsung’s decision to provide six years of software support for cheaper models puts pressure on other brands to improve their Android update policies.

Why Samsung’s Extended Software Support Matters

  • Longer device lifespan: Users can keep their smartphones longer, reducing e-waste and saving money.
  • Better security: Regular security patches ensure protection against vulnerabilities.
  • Improved performance: Access to new features and optimized software keeps devices running smoothly.
  • Competitive edge: Samsung stands out in the Android market, attracting buyers looking for long-term value.

Final Thoughts: Is Samsung the Best for Android Updates?

With six years of Android updates now available for budget Galaxy phones, Samsung continues to dominate in software support. Whether you choose a flagship or mid-range device, you’ll benefit from extended updates that keep your phone secure, fast, and feature-rich.

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