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On most Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets, open Settings > Software update > Download and install, then follow the prompts if an update is available. Menu names and release timing can vary by device, software version, region, and carrier, so seeing “Your software is up to date” does not always mean a newer update has not been released elsewhere.

Check for an update in Settings

  1. Connect your Galaxy phone or tablet to Wi-Fi if possible. Updates can be large, and some carriers require Wi-Fi.
  2. Open Settings.
  3. Tap Software update. Depending on the device, the menu may instead be called System updates.
  4. Tap Download and install. Some models or carriers use Check for system updates or Check for software updates.
  5. If an update is offered, follow the on-screen instructions. Your device may begin downloading automatically or ask you to tap Download now or Install now.

Samsung may notify you when an update is available, but a manual check lets you look immediately. If no update appears, availability may still be pending for your particular device or carrier.

Prepare the device before installing

  • Use Wi-Fi where possible. This helps avoid using mobile data and meets the requirement of some carriers.
  • Check the battery. Samsung’s US troubleshooting guidance says to charge to at least 50%, while its Spain guide says at least 20%. These are different regional instructions, not a universal threshold; follow any charge prompt on your device and the guidance for your market.
  • Leave the device connected during installation. It may restart as part of the process. If using Smart Switch on a computer, do not disconnect the USB cable until the update is complete.

Choose between Settings and Smart Switch

Settings is the normal route. Samsung Smart Switch on a computer is an optional alternative when Settings does not offer an update or downloads repeatedly fail. Samsung does not guarantee that Smart Switch will offer an update in every case.

Route What you need When it is useful
Device Settings Your Galaxy device and, preferably, Wi-Fi For the usual manual check and installation.
Smart Switch on a computer A computer, Smart Switch, and a compatible USB data cable When Settings does not offer the update or repeated download problems make another route worth trying.

Use Smart Switch on a computer

  1. Open Smart Switch on a computer.
  2. Connect the Galaxy device to the computer with a compatible USB data cable. Connector types vary by model; check that the cable fits both devices and supports data transfer.
  3. If Smart Switch detects an available update, choose Update and follow the prompts.
  4. Keep the cable connected until Smart Switch says the process is complete, including any device restart.

If no update is available

An empty result can be normal. Samsung says update availability can depend on device, region, software version, and carrier. Carrier-associated updates may be developed and released by the carrier, and a new release may reach eligible devices in stages.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 512GB, Black
  • PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
  • TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
  • NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
  • MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
  • HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
  • Check with your carrier whether the update has been released for your exact model and service.
  • If the release is recent, wait and check again later; staged distribution can mean eligible devices do not receive it all at once.
  • If the device was unlocked by its original carrier, check whether that carrier’s SIM is needed to download updates.
  • Try Smart Switch on a computer if Settings still does not offer the update.

Samsung Canada says unlocked devices typically receive updates sooner than carrier-locked devices. That is general guidance for Canada, not a guarantee for every device or market.

If the download or installation fails

There is not enough storage

Free the amount of space requested by the device, then retry the update.

Rank #2
Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked, 6.7", Dual SIM, 50MP Triple Camera (Case Bundle), Black
  • Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
  • Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
  • Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.

The download was interrupted

Samsung says you may be able to resume an interrupted download from the notification. If downloads repeatedly fail, try Smart Switch on a computer.

The device will not start normally after an update failure

Samsung says service may be needed to reflash a device that cannot boot normally after an update failure. Avoid using a factory reset as an early troubleshooting step; if you decide a reset is necessary, back up important data first.

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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Black
  • YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
  • LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
  • MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
  • NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
  • BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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Check which software version is installed

Open Settings > About phone or About tablet > Software information. Depending on the device, this screen can show the Android version, One UI version, build number, and related software details. Some devices also show update history or details about the last update in the Software update menu; labels vary.

Samsung describes software updates as a way to enhance functionality, add features, and increase security. Checking the installed version can help you identify what your device is running when contacting Samsung or your carrier for model-specific help.

Best Value
Samsung Galaxy S26, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 256GB, Black
  • TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
  • MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
  • FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
  • IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
  • FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Blue
  • YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
  • LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
  • MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
  • NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
  • BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.