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Samsung Galaxy S21 Android 13 update, One UI 5.0 release date, Beta and more
In early 2021, Samsung launched the Galaxy S21 series flagships, pre-loaded with Android 11-based One UI 3.1 software. The Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra were the first to receive the Android 12-based One UI 4 Beta/Stable version, while eligible for three more major upgrades including the Android 13.
Up from the regular three OS updates promise, Samsung extended the support to four years for the Galaxy S21 series devices. Aside from the major Android and One UI upgrades, the company has also promised to deliver at least five years of regular security patches.
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After the Android 12-based One UI 4.0 and One UI 4.1 updates, Samsung Galaxy S21 series phones are now eligible and eager to receive the upcoming Android 13-based One UI 5 (Beta/Stable) version. To be mentioned, Google debuted Android 13 on the Developer Preview channel back in February 2022, while it is limited to Pixel phones.
Galaxy S21 Android 13 Beta Status
Similar to the last year, Samsung’s latest Galaxy S series devices became eligible to get the Android 13-based One UI 5 Beta update, among others. However, the Samsung Galaxy S21 series also joined the party with the Android 13-based One UI 5 Beta in a handful of countries.
- On September 21, Samsung released the One UI 5.0 Beta 2 for Galaxy S21 in the US.
- On September 8, the Galaxy S21’s One UI 5.0 Beta program expanded to India.
- On August 30, Samsung started the One UI 5.0 Beta program in South Korea and UK
- On August 6, the Korean tech giant showcased the One UI 5, based on Android 13, Beta ROM for the Galaxy S22 series devices. Read more
Galaxy S21 Android 13 Release Date
If the company goes the same as rumors, the One UI 5 will be live for Galaxy consumers in July, while the Stable distribution is likely to happen after about two months of Beta testing. Accordingly, we can expect the Android 13′ arrival for the Galaxy S21 series later this year.
- Release Date – October 2022 [Expected]
Latest News
October 11, 2022
Samsung released third One UI 5.0 Beta update for the Galaxy S21 series smartphones in the Korean market. The latest ZVJ3 build comes with plenty of bug fixes and improvements for an even more stable system and functional performance. Check bugs that have been fixed below:
- Improved that Favorites and Recent items can be added and removed in Gallery album
- Fixed the issue executed sleep mode automatically
- Fixed the issue occurred vibration sound/beep sound continuously
- Fixed crash when entering App folder
- Fixed crash when changing Wallpapers
- Fixed crash in S pen Air Command
- Fixed the problem for Object eraser not working
- Fixed vibration feedback not working in Home gesture
- Fixed the frame breaking issue when entering from Widget to Home
- Deleted Multi-user function
- Other minor bug fixes
October 10, 2022
A new One UI 5.0 Beta build has been spotted for the Galaxy S21 series on Samsung Server which has version number ZVJ2 and includes October 2022 security patch.
New updated One UI 5 beta build found for S21 series on Server with Oct Patch as I in build number changes to J.
Its same as S22 series
ZVJ2 is now latest one..
ZVII>>ZVJ2
I hope Rollout is really soon and tomorrow is the day
— Tarun Vats (@tarunvats33) October 5, 2022
October 1, 2022
Samsung releases the second One UI 5.0 Beta update for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21 Plus and Galaxy S21 Ultra smartphone users in the US. It comes with several bug fixes that have been reported by Beta participants with the initial Beta update.
Build Version – ZVIE
Changelog
- Fixed One UI crashes during normal usage
- Fixed One UI crashes when opening any folder
- Fixed Themes crashes after opening wallpaper in setting
- Fixed the issue that Camera keeps stopping
- Fixed force close and “can’t take screenshot due to security policy” pop up coming while taking screenshot from device
- Fixed the issue that Settings has stopped force close occur when we tap on color by keyword option
- Fixed Edge lightning style subtext not updated and option not working in Dex mode after select any option under the edge lightning style
- Fixed the issue that text is shown cropped when open Air command commands in split screen view
- Fixed the issue that Camera quick launch is not working
- Fixed the issue that Camera switch to Front and Rear is not working when double press power key in Camera
- Fixed the issue that Video editor crash occur when edit video
- Fixed the issue that Force close is occurring while entering in clock application if timer selected
- Fixed the issue that Camera preview is appearing black and not working while switching guest to owner mode
- Fixed the issue of not able to change single chat notification in message app
- Fixed the issue that force close is occuring while adding right app shortcut after deletion
- Fixed the issue that force close is occuring while editing video in popup view
- Fixed the issue that Call screen UI is not correct in guest mode
September 21, 2022
Samsung announced the Android 13-based One UI 5.0 Beta testing program for the carrier unlocked units of the Galaxy S21, S21+ and S21 Ultra in the US.
September 11, 2022
On September 8, Samsung expanded the Android 13-based One UI 5.0 Beta testing activity for the Galaxy S21 series devices in India.
August 30, 2022
Samsung confirms that the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+ and Galaxy S21 Ultra smartphone users are now eligible to join the One UI 5.0 Beta program in South Korea, in order to start experiencing the Android 13 OS ahead of its stable release.
August 19, 2022
Samsung released the first One UI 5.0 Beta for the Galaxy S22 series devices. However, it seems like the company is already working on the development of the Android 13-based One UI 5.0 Beta for the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+ and Galaxy S21 Ultra smartphones in South Korea.
- Firmware versions:
- G991NKSU3ZVHA
- G996NKSU3ZVHA
- G998NKSU3ZVHA
August 08, 2022
According to RPRNA, SamMobile heard that Samsung has started internal testing of the Android 13-based One UI 5.0 firmware on the Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, S20, S20+, and S20 Ultra devices. However, the blog has not heard anything (like release date, Beta availability) other than what everyone knows!
August 05, 2022
Seems like, Samsung has delayed the One UI 5 Beta program for the Galaxy devices as Google shifted the official Android 13 launch to September. Meanwhile, a screenshot, shared by a Reddit user, suggests that T-Mobile US is testing the Android 13 firmware on the Galaxy S21 Ultra.
July 23, 2022
Going by the information shared by the user, Samsung Galaxy S21 One UI 5.0/One UI 4.1.1 update is testing in the UK and it carries the One UI build version G998BXXU5DVGA. We know that after the Galaxy S22, the Galaxy S21 series is most eligible to get the One UI 5.0 beta update.
July 9, 2022
Samsung is likely to start the Android 13 Beta program for Galaxy devices in the third week, while we just got our first look at One UI 5 Beta design and UI changes. Check it out here
May 29, 2022
Google has released the Android 13 Beta 2.1 for the Pixel devices that had already joined the Beta testing program. It comes with fixes for some major issues for a better user experience, meanwhile, you can check the changelog mentioned below.
- Fixed an issue where typing in the search bar resulted in a blank list of suggestions.
- Fixed an issue where devices would crash and restart when turning on the hotspot.
- Fixed an issue where a continuous call dialing sound could be heard in the background during a phone call.
- Fixed an issue where devices would crash and restart after disconnecting from Android Auto.
May 20
Recently, we’ve checked the Beta Operations Manager’s activity landing page, which has had no changes since January this year. We will continue to provide the latest insights regarding the Android 13 and One UI 5.0 update development for your Galaxy devices, so stay tuned…
April 29
Samsung has started releasing the May 2022 security patch to the Galaxy S22 series smartphone users starting April 25. As of now, the update is available in various Asian countries, while today reached the T-Mobile variants in the United States. Read more
April 21
In February 2022, Google released the Android 13 Developer Preview for eligible Pixel devices, however, the stable version may likely debut in October this year. However, the US tech giant will share more details about the new OS at its annual conference AKA Google I/O 2022.
New York became the first US state to bring retail consumer rebates for appliances under the Inflation Reduction Act. Applauding the move, Samsung launched a huge energy-saving opportunity for the residents of New York.
Samsung started offering up-front discounts to consumers statewide through New York’s IRA HEAR program. Consumers can now access IRA’s Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) program.
IRA HEAR rebate program advantages
- Save up to $840 on Samsung’s innovative ENERGY STAR products, including laundry appliances like heat pump dryers and all-in-one combo washers + heat pump dryers.
Visit Samsung’s home appliance page to learn more about the options available.
Samsung said this is just the beginning of its rebates journey in New York. The company looks forward to working with partners to expand these retail rebates to more products and in more states across the United States.
Pay attention, the IRA provides rebates and tax credits to households across America. New York is leading the way in providing direct retail point-of-sale appliance rebates, supporting an affordable clean energy transition.
Inflation Reduction Act
Signed in August 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act is the single largest investment in climate and energy in American history.
It provides home appliance rebates for discounts on electric energy-efficient appliances like Induction cooktops, ranges, and heat pump laundry appliances.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has undergone one of the most extreme military tests. The company has recently published a Watch Ultra test video, featuring Phillip Chu Joy.
Phillip participated in the Peruvian Navy’s Special Operations Course to showcase the watch’s capabilities. It is renowned as one of the world’s most challenging military training programs.
“The Galaxy Watch Ultra pushes technology to its limits, handling extreme conditions with ease,” Chu Joy remarked. “It’s undoubtedly designed for those seeking exceptional performance.”
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra proves its durability and functionality in water, mud, and sand — excelling even under the grueling conditions of Peru’s most extreme military training.
Galaxy Watch Ultra
The Watch Ultra boasts a Grade 4 titanium frame. It also features a shockproof cushioned design that meets MIL-STD-810H2 military standards and water resistance of up to 10ATM.
The product is capable of operating within a broad temperature range of -20°C to 55°C4 and performing at altitudes of up to 9,000 meters above sea level.
These capabilities make it ideal for tracking advanced physical activities like ocean swimming and cycling in extreme conditions; take the Perivian military training as a recent proven example.
Samsung’s Watch Ultra is the ultimate companion for sports enthusiasts and extreme adventurers. It’s crafted to endure the toughest conditions with its pro-grade features and premium materials.
Samsung’s Mauricio Revollar stated:
“We wanted the public to experience the Galaxy Watch Ultra like never before in the Peruvian market by creating the most extreme product review ever undertaken here.”
“This was made possible thanks to the collaboration of the Peruvian Navy, which allowed us to highlight and celebrate the commitment of the students in one of the world’s most demanding military training programs.”
Watch the video below:
Apple collaborated with OpenAI to power Apple Intelligence features. The ChatGPT maker continues to create obstacles for Google. In a recent move, OpenAI discussed a potential AI partnership with Samsung.
TheInformation (via Reuters) reported that OpenAI has recently discussed powering AI features on Samsung-made devices. It seems the ChatGPT-maker wishes an AI partnership with Samsung to expand its reach in multiple folds.
The company is considering developing a web browser to rival Google’s Chrome. OpenAI recently introduced its search engine called SearchGPT. It is available to limited users alongside internal testers and strategic partners.
Samsung x OpenAI
Samsung and Google’s close partnership doesn’t need any elaboration. The friendship isn’t limited to services, as both firms work across an ecosystem. However, it doesn’t stop Samsung from partnering with OpenAI in favor of better service.
As the AI phone market is growing rapidly, OpenAI may innovate further. Google doesn’t lag, but there’s still room for a potential alliance. Apple Intelligence-like features might be deployed on Galaxy phones after Samsung’s partnership.
OpenAI knows Samsung holds the command of the worldwide smartphone market. Expansion of its services will be quite broader than Apple if its partnership with Samsung pens down. For now, take this information as a grain of salt!
Apple x OpenAI
Apple leads the worldwide premium smartphone market. Google and Samsung introduced their AI phones in October 2023 and January 2024, respectively. It forced Apple to immediately enter the segment to normalize the innovation gap.
Google’s availing Gemini Nano AI model, but Apple joined hands with OpenAI. To create a difference, OpenAI powering some of the coolest AI features on recent iPhones. The move is to attract other vendors to adopt source AI from OpenAI.
Well, Apple still reportedly considering bringing Gemini AI on iPhones. The company believes that iPhone users should have different AI providers available. Hence, a multi-collaborative approach is also in the pipeline, at least from Apple’s end.