The Samsung Galaxy S21 series was first launched back in 2021, featuring four different models:
- Samsung Galaxy S21
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE
Five years later, Samsung has now removed the S21, S21 Plus, and S21 Ultra from its regular update list, according to TechRadar.
This means the devices will no longer receive Android or security updates.
Samsung Galaxy S21 devices at risk of “increased vulnerabilities”
Tech experts have warned that removing these three Samsung Galaxy S21 devices from the regular update list leaves users at risk of “increased vulnerabilities”.
While initially these mobile phones may continue to work as normal, over time, they will begin to age (and at a faster rate than others).
No longer receiving security updates can make devices easier targets for scammers, malware, and data breaches.
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Apps may begin to stop working as developers introduce updates, while users may also be left unable to install new apps.
Phone expert at Insurance2Go, Darren Corney, said: “When a smartphone reaches the end of its regular update cycle, it doesn’t suddenly stop working, but the issues users face start to slowly increase.
“Software updates aren’t just about new features or cosmetic changes – they’re the phone’s frontline defence against new and evolving security threats.
“Once a device like the Galaxy S21 drops off the regular update list, it is no longer guaranteed to receive timely fixes for increasing vulnerabilities.
“Cybercriminals pay very close attention to which devices stop receiving updates, because it effectively gives them a list of phones that will be easier to target in the future.
“Users may find themselves more exposed to malware, phishing attempts, and other types of attacks that exploit weaknesses.
“Beyond security, older phones that no longer get updates can also run into performance issues over time.
“Apps are built with the assumption that the operating system beneath them is being updated and is kept current.
“As that gap widens, users may see apps crashing more often, battery life draining, or certain new features simply not working.”
Once mobile phones stops receiving regular updates, it can begin to cause issues, tech experts warn. (Image: Samsung)
The removal of Samsung Galaxy S21 devices from the update list will also have a financial impact.
General manager at 4gadgets, Jordan Cook, explained: “Devices typically lose value more quickly once update support ends.
“While phones like the Galaxy S21 still retain trade-in value, removal from the update list accelerates depreciation, making earlier upgrades or trade-ins more financially sensible.”
Despite the lack of updates, these Samsung phones won’t become completely obsolete, as they will still be able to perform core functions, including making calls, sending texts, and using basic apps.
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But Mr Corney warned users to consider the long-term implications of using a handset that is “no longer being actively protected”.
He said: “For many people, the phone may still feel perfectly usable day to day, but if you’re using the device for sensitive tasks like mobile banking or work emails, it’s worth considering the long-term implications of running a handset that’s no longer being actively protected.
“At the very least, users should be extra cautious about what they download, avoid unfamiliar links, and think about whether now might be a good time to upgrade to something that will continue to receive security support for years to come.”
Certain Apple iPhones also at an increased risk of vulnerabilities
Certain Apple iPhones are also at an increased risk of vulnerabilities due to no longer receiving updates.
Chief product officer at Compare and Recycle, Lee Elliott, explained: “Those still using an iPhone 11 series or any model below should be warned of the digital security risks associated with still using an unsupported model.
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“This is because Apple drops support for iPhones after around five to seven years after the iPhone model has been released, which means iPhones no longer receive iOS software updates and security patches.
“Because of this, the iPhone 11 will not be able to protect any personal data in the way that more modern iPhones do, leaving users vulnerable to issues like data leaks, hacking, and other security breaches.”
Do you have a Samsung Galaxy S21 device or an Apple iPhone that is no longer receiving regular updates? Let us know in the poll above or in the comments below.