Samsung has started rolling out the One UI 7 update, bringing smoother animations, modern UI elements, and several new features. However, not every device will move forward to the upcoming One UI 8 update, which is expected to be based on Android 16 and released this summer.
If your Galaxy device has received One UI 7, it may be the last major OS update it gets.
One UI 7 is a Major Upgrade
Even though some devices won’t get One UI 8, One UI 7 itself is a significant software improvement. It includes:
- Smoother and more responsive animations
- Updated and modern app icons
- Newly introduced features and customization tools
- A refreshed interface with the Now Bar
- Performance optimizations across the system
While we all appreciate new updates, it’s not feasible for any smartphone brand to offer unlimited OS support. Samsung has followed a consistent update policy, and for many devices, One UI 7 is the final stop.
Flagship Galaxy Devices That Won’t Get One UI 8
Samsung promised four years of major OS upgrades for its flagship models starting with Android 12. These devices have now received their fourth and final upgrade (Android 15 via One UI 7) and are no longer eligible for One UI 8:
- Galaxy S21
- Galaxy S21+
- Galaxy S21 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold 3
- Galaxy Z Flip 3
These phones will continue to receive security updates, but no further Android or One UI upgrades are expected. This marks the end of the major update journey for these flagship models.
Mid-range and Budget Galaxy Devices Staying on One UI 7
Samsung typically offers three major OS upgrades for mid-range devices and only two for budget phones. Based on this policy, the following devices are expected to stay on One UI 7:
- Galaxy A14
- Galaxy A14 5G
- Galaxy M33
- Galaxy M14
- Galaxy M14 5G
- Galaxy F14 5G
- Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2022)
- Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro
Unless Samsung officially changes its software support policy, these models will not receive Android 16 or One UI 8.
Conclusion
Samsung’s One UI 7 brings noticeable improvements that can keep your Galaxy device running smoothly and feeling up-to-date. While missing out on One UI 8 may be disappointing for some, the current update ensures a polished experience for supported devices.
If you're using one of the listed models and are satisfied with its performance, there’s no urgent need to upgrade. However, if long-term update support is important to you, consider planning for a future device that aligns with Samsung’s new software policy.
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