Samsung is reportedly gearing up for the rollout of its much-anticipated One UI 7, based on Android 15, starting from April 18. This update not only aims to improve the user interface but also to introduce various new features to its lineup of Galaxy devices. According to recent leaks, the Galaxy S24 series and select foldable devices are set to be the first recipients of the update, with approximately 20 other models to follow shortly thereafter.
The information emerged from various leak sources, including Reddit user Chewe_dev, who shared insights from an alleged internal Samsung workshop held in Romania. Documentation from this workshop reveals the timeline detailing the rollout, emphasizing initial dates for Samsung's latest flagship devices.
The rollout is scheduled as follows: starting April 18, the Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Z Flip 6 are expected to receive the update. The Galaxy S23 series is slated for April 25, along with several other devices. This is seen as part of Samsung's attempt to re-establish itself as timely with software releases, especially amid the significant delays associated with One UI 7.
While the rollout seems promising, frustrations have mounted among users due to the extended duration of the beta phase and the expected timelines, which suggest the stable version is arriving months after Google launched Android 15. Users are becoming increasingly impatient as they wait over half a year post Google's original release to receive the updates meant to optimize their devices.
According to Samsung Romania's leaked schedule, subsequent updates for other devices will occur throughout May:
- May 16: Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra, as well as the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4.
- May 23: Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, and A series models including A54, A34, A53, and A33.
Interestingly, devices like the Galaxy A55 and A35, which have yet to receive mentions concerning the update schedule, are assumed to follow suit, arriving shortly after their predecessors. The general sentiment points to increasing disappointment for users of older devices, who have often felt overlooked during major software transitions.
With the Galaxy S24 series and Z Fold Flip models leading the initiative, it begs the question: what about the older generations? Samsung's commitment to seven years of OS upgrades for flagship devices may alleviate some concerns, but its reliability on timely updates remains under scrutiny.
Many users turning to the beta program for the S24 series have expressed mixed feelings. Feedback on current beta versions has been mostly positive, with users reporting fewer bugs than expected, raising hopes for improvements upon final release. "We are far from perfect but we're happy with the beta results so far," one user commented, noting the absence of glitches.
Despite the optimism, concerns linger over Samsung's delayed rollout strategy. Some reports suggest this timing puts Samsung at risk of updates rolling out just before the expected release of Android 16, which could leave users feeling potentially short-changed on their hardware investments.
Notably, questions have arisen surrounding leaks indicating Samsung Romania's accidental exposure of the timetable during the Zoom session. Critics labeled these leaks as dubious, demanding clarification from the company. "Until we hear directly from Samsung, it’s all speculation," cautions tech analyst Talal Khan.
Samsung's strategy of supporting flagship models extensively contrasts poorly against competitors like Google, who continue to manage more straightforward and timely rollouts. The lapse raises expectations for Samsung to clarify their upgrade methodology, particularly as more news surrounding Android 16 emerges.
To keep users informed of the updates, Samsung has begun rolling out security updates preceding the major software transitions. This tactic aims to maintain engagement among Galaxy users who are eagerly anticipating any official news. Meanwhile, it's wise for customers to stay updated by regularly checking the software section of their devices for any incremental changes.
For now, as we inch closer to the alleged rollout date, Galaxy users can only hope for swift communication and transparency from Samsung. Whether these updates feel timely or frustratingly delayed will largely impact user satisfaction and brand loyalty moving forward.