Samsung Galaxy Security Updates: A Comprehensive Guide for 2026
BERLIN, 21 January 2026 – As Samsung continues to dominate the European smartphone market, understanding the company’s security update policy has become increasingly important for millions of Galaxy users. With cyber threats evolving rapidly and Samsung committing to unprecedented long-term support, this guide examines the current state of Galaxy security, recent vulnerabilities, and what users can expect moving forward.
The 7-Year Security Commitment
Samsung made headlines in January 2024 when it announced it would extend security update support for Galaxy devices to up to seven years. This policy, which applies to flagship devices launched from 2024 onwards, represents one of the industry’s most comprehensive security commitments. The Galaxy S24 series, released in January 2024, was the first to benefit from this extended support, meaning these devices will receive security patches until approximately 2031.
The update schedule typically follows a tiered approach: flagship devices receive monthly security updates for the first few years before transitioning to quarterly updates, while mid-range and budget devices may start on quarterly or bi-annual schedules. However, availability can vary by market, network provider, and specific device model.
Recent Security Incidents and Vulnerabilities
The past two years have highlighted both the importance of regular security updates and the sophistication of modern mobile threats. In April 2025, Samsung patched a critical vulnerability tracked as CVE-2025-21042, an out-of-bounds write flaw in the libimagecodec.quram.so library. This vulnerability, which received a CVSS score of 8.8, was exploited as a zero-day to deliver the LANDFALL spyware to Galaxy devices in targeted attacks in the Middle East.
The attack chain involved malicious Digital Negative (DNG) image files sent via WhatsApp that could compromise devices without user interaction. Affected devices included the Galaxy S22, S23, and S24 series, as well as Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 models. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) added this vulnerability to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog in November 2025, highlighting its severity.
Earlier, in 2024, researchers discovered CVE-2024-44068, a critical vulnerability in Samsung’s Exynos processors with a CVSS score of 8.1. This use-after-free bug affected multiple processor models and demonstrated the sophisticated nature of modern mobile exploits.
Current Update Status and Procedures
As of January 2026, Samsung continues to roll out regular security updates across its device portfolio. The company typically releases Security Maintenance Releases (SMR) monthly for flagship devices, containing both Google’s Android security patches and Samsung-specific fixes for vulnerabilities identified as Samsung Vulnerabilities and Exposures (SVE).
To check for updates manually on your Galaxy device:
- Open the Settings app
- Navigate to Software update
- Tap Download and install
For devices running older software versions, the Software update menu may be located within the About device section. Users can also use Samsung’s Smart Switch software on Windows or Mac computers to check for updates, or download firmware manually from Samsung’s official sources.
Key Security Features and Best Practices
| Security Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Samsung Knox | Defense-grade security platform with hardware and software protection layers |
| Knox Vault | Tamper-resistant hardware security environment for sensitive data |
| Secure Folder | Encrypted space for storing private apps and data |
| Find My Mobile | Remote location, lock, and data wipe capabilities |
| Regular Security Updates | Monthly/quarterly patches for Android and Samsung-specific vulnerabilities |
Future Outlook and One UI Development
Looking ahead, Samsung continues to enhance its security architecture. With the introduction of One UI 8 in late 2025, based on Android 16, the company implemented Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) and improved Knox Matrix features. These advancements provide more robust protection for on-device AI features and connected Galaxy ecosystems.
The One UI 8.5 beta programme, expected to begin in early 2026, will likely bring further security enhancements and optimisation. Samsung has also begun implementing post-quantum cryptography in features like Secure Wi-Fi, preparing for future cryptographic challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my Samsung Galaxy device receive security updates?
Flagship devices launched from 2024 onwards, starting with the Galaxy S24 series, are eligible for up to seven years of security updates. Mid-range devices typically receive four to five years of support, though this varies by model and market.
What should I do if my device is no longer receiving updates?
If your device has reached its end of support, consider upgrading to a newer model. Continue to practice good security hygiene: avoid sideloading apps, use strong authentication methods, be cautious on public Wi-Fi networks, and consider using a mobile security application.
Are security updates different from feature updates?
Yes. Security updates focus exclusively on patching vulnerabilities and do not typically include new features. Major Android version upgrades and One UI updates are separate and bring both new features and security improvements.
How can I verify if my device has the latest security patch?
Go to Settings > About phone > Software information to check your Android security patch level. Compare this date with Samsung’s official security update announcements on their mobile security website.