Samsung, one of the frontrunners in the Android ecosystem, has long stood out not only with its hardware innovations but also through its commitment to timely software updates. Traditionally, the Galaxy S series has been the first to receive the latest Android versions and One UI updates. However, this familiar update pattern is now undergoing a fundamental transformation. Starting with Android 16-based One UI 8 and continuing with future versions, Samsung plans to prioritize its foldable devices — the Galaxy Z Fold and Flip series — for early access to software updates.
The first signs of this shift became apparent with the One UI 7 rollout. Samsung was noticeably late in delivering the update to Galaxy S devices, sparking criticism. Yet, it turns out this delay was part of a broader strategic realignment. The company now aims to synchronize major software releases with the mid-year launch of its foldable phones, creating a more streamlined and event-driven update schedule.
For example, the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8, expected in mid-2025, will debut with Android 17-based One UI 9.0 right out of the box. This signals that future Android updates will be closely tied to the foldable lineup, allowing Samsung to spotlight these innovative devices both in terms of hardware and software.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy S series will follow a different update path. Being introduced early in the year, S-series devices will now receive the “x.5” versions of One UI — comprehensive updates based on the previous Android version. For instance, the Galaxy S26 will be launched with Android 16-based One UI 8.5. This change also simplifies Samsung’s versioning system, skipping smaller updates like 7.1 or 8.1 in favor of more clearly defined releases.
Despite these shifts, one key element remains unchanged: the long-term software support. Samsung has reaffirmed its commitment to provide seven years of updates for both Galaxy S and Z series devices, meaning users can expect support well into 2032.