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Samsung recently started rolling out the Android 12 update for carrier-locked variants of the Galaxy S21 series in the US. The Korean manufacturer is now sending the update to unlocked versions of the flagship in the region.
Expectedly, the update covers the unlocked Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and the Galaxy S21 Ultra. SamMobile reports that the update bears the firmware version G99xU1UEU4BUK7. In addition to all the Android 12/One UI 4 related features, this update also includes the November 2021 security patch.
Owners of unlocked Galaxy S21 variants in the US can pull the Android 12 update manually via Settings – Software update. Despite the relative delay in sending the update to unlocked variants of its early 2021 flagship, Samsung is still miles ahead of rival offerings in terms of update rollout.
Phones like the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Z Flip 3 will get the Android 12 update in December
While we know what’s new with the latest version of Android, One UI 4 brings a handful of other valuable features. In addition to bolstering the performance of the Galaxy S21, customers are also treated to upgraded stock apps and improved security and privacy.
Samsung has an elaborate plan to roll out the newest update to its existing crop of devices. With the Galaxy S21 series already receiving the update, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Z Flip 3 are next in line. Leaked roadmaps suggest the two foldables will get the update in December.
Meanwhile, phones like the original Galaxy Z Fold, Z Flip, Z Flip 5G, Galaxy Z Fold 2, the Galaxy S20+, the S20 Ultra, the Galaxy Note 20 series, and the Note 10 series are likely to get the update in January 2021. The standard Galaxy S20 and the Galaxy S10 will get the update in February 2022. Samsung’s lineup of mid-range and budget smartphones would get the update from March 2022 through August.
The Android 12 + One UI 4 update for the Galaxy S21 series also brings eSIM support to the US. The feature made its way to Verizon and T-Mobile models of the flagships recently. So it’s safe to assume it would also make its way to the unlocked models. Having an eSIM on the Galaxy S21 lets users get a second connection without requiring a SIM card.