Galaxy S21 Series Gets December 2025 Patch, One UI 8.5 Not Expected

Samsung has recently expanded the December 2025 security patch rollout to more devices. The Galaxy S21 series has now joined the list. The Galaxy S21 lineup is nearing the end of its software support cycle. This update could be one of the last few security patches for these devices.

Galaxy S21 lineup receives December 2025 security update

The Galaxy S21 lineup, which includes the Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, and Galaxy S21 Ultra, has started receiving the December 2025 security update. The update is currently live in the US. It comes with the build version, G998USQSIHYL1. The December 2025 security patch fixes around 68 security vulnerabilities identified by Samsung, Google, and other partners.

This update does not bring any major new features. It mainly focuses on improving system security and overall stability. The Galaxy S21 series is currently running Android 15. This is the final Android version promised by Samsung for these devices. They were not eligible for One UI 8 based on Android 16 earlier this year. Thus, they will not get One UI 8.5 either. Samsung has already slowed down the update frequency for the Galaxy S21 series. Even more, support for these models could end anytime soon.

The situation is different for the Galaxy S21 FE. The Fan Edition model was launched later and is currently running One UI 8 based on Android 16. It is also expected to receive the One UI 8.5 update based on Android 16 QPR2 in the first half of next year. However, the Galaxy S21 FE will not be eligible for Android 17, which is expected to roll out later next year. One UI 8.5 is expected to make its stable debut alongside the Galaxy S26 series at the Galaxy Unpacked event in early 2026.

If you own a Galaxy S21 device, you can check for the update by going to Settings > Software update > Download and install. Once the download is complete, tap Install now to install the update. Make sure your phone has enough battery and is not overheating before installing.