Android
Samsung is working to match Apple’s secure, privacy-centered ecosystem, but when it comes to timely updates, Galaxy owners still face a big challenge. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 and S23 users are the latest to feel the impact of Samsung’s traditional, slower update system, particularly as Google improves its update game with Android 15. The issue? Galaxy devices are yet to support seamless updates, a feature Google has already integrated into its Pixel line, allowing users to update without interrupting device use.
Samsung’s Approach to Updates: Why the Delay?
Samsung is known for exceptional hardware and its security-focused Knox platform, but it lags in timely updates. While Google now offers a seamless Over-The-Air (OTA) system on Pixel devices, Samsung devices still require a lengthy restart for updates, disrupting user experience. In March, it appeared Samsung was moving toward seamless updates, with early models like the Galaxy A55 5G reportedly testing this feature. However, no further announcements have emerged, and recent reports indicate that Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S24 and S23 series won’t receive the seamless update feature. Instead, users will have to wait until the Galaxy S25 to enjoy the convenience of this modern update system.
The Galaxy S25: Will It Solve Samsung’s Update Woes?
The Galaxy S25 is rumored to be the first flagship Samsung device to support seamless updates. According to Android Authority, this would finally bring Samsung closer to Google’s and Apple’s standard. Unlike Samsung’s current system, where users endure a complete device restart, seamless updates apply changes in the background, so users experience no downtime—enhancing user experience and speeding up security patches.
Security Concerns: Waiting for Android 15 and One UI 7
Samsung’s traditional update approach also affects security. Monthly patches vary based on device, carrier, and region, so not every Galaxy S24 or S23 user receives updates on the same schedule. The delayed release of Android 15 and Samsung’s One UI 7 beta adds to this inconsistency, frustrating users who expect fast updates on flagship devices.
Another concern for Samsung users is a critical Qualcomm vulnerability that affects certain Galaxy devices. While it’s unclear whether the upcoming security release will address this vulnerability, Samsung needs to ensure timely patches, especially in an era where device security is paramount.
Why Regular, Seamless Updates Matter for Samsung’s Reputation
As Samsung works toward Apple’s level of security and privacy, timely updates are a crucial missing piece. Google’s Pixel devices now feature fast, all-at-once updates, giving Samsung owners more reasons to consider an alternative. Samsung’s delay in adopting seamless updates may be due to the complexities of managing diverse devices and regional versions, but addressing this issue is essential to compete with Apple.
Until Samsung closes the gap with seamless updates, Galaxy owners may find themselves waiting longer than desired for new Android features and essential security patches. The Galaxy S25 may hold the key to bridging this gap, but until then, Samsung users must contend with an aging update process that Apple and Google have already left behind.
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