Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesTo install an available update on most Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets, open Settings > Software update > Download and install, then follow the prompts. To check the installed Android and One UI versions, open Settings > About phone (or About tablet) > Software information. Menu names and update availability can differ by model, software version, carrier, and country.
Install an update from your Galaxy device
- Connect to Wi-Fi if available. Some carriers require Wi-Fi to check for or install updates.
- Open Settings > Software update > Download and install. Depending on the device, look instead for a label such as System updates, Check for updates, Check for system updates, or Check for software updates.
- If an update is offered, download it and follow the on-screen instructions. Do not interrupt the installation; the device may be unavailable while it runs.
Before starting, Samsung Canada recommends charging the device to at least 50%, checking available storage, connecting to Wi-Fi to avoid mobile-data use, and backing up important data. If the connection drops before the update completes, Samsung says the installation may fail; reconnect and try again. On some devices, automatic Wi-Fi downloads can be enabled in the software-update settings.
Find your installed software and security patch level
View Android, One UI, and build details
Open Settings > About phone or About tablet > Software information. Samsung identifies this screen as the place to view details including the Android version, One UI version, and build number. Menu organization can vary.
Check the last update summary
On devices covered by Samsung Canada’s instructions, open Settings > Software update > Last update. The summary can show details of the last update, including its security patch level. The availability and placement of this page may vary by device.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
Look for a separate security-update check
Samsung Canada and Samsung Caribbean document this route on covered devices: Settings > Security and privacy > Updates > Security update. If the screen offers Check for updates, select it. If the route or label is absent, use your device’s Software update screen and consult support information for your exact model.
If your Galaxy says no update is available
A check that finds nothing does not by itself establish that your device has a particular patch date or that every Galaxy model is current. Samsung says update availability varies by model, country, software version, and service provider; some carriers require Wi-Fi, and an update may arrive by notification rather than appearing at every manual check.
Rank #2
- 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.
- Retry the check on Wi-Fi, particularly if your carrier may require it.
- Record the installed details from Settings > About phone/tablet > Software information, and check Software update > Last update if that page is available.
- Look up the software update history or release notes for your exact model and carrier. Samsung’s update guidance also points users to Samsung Mobile Security for security information applicable to a particular model.
- Try Smart Switch on a Windows PC or Mac as an alternate way to see whether an update is available.
The available information does not establish one universal update schedule, eligibility rule, or rollout delay for an unspecified Galaxy device. Use model-specific information rather than treating another Galaxy model’s patch date as yours.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Use Smart Switch on a computer instead
Samsung documents Smart Switch as an alternative to updating through Settings. It requires access to a Windows PC or Mac, but not a new cable: Samsung says to use the USB cable supplied with the device.
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Rank #3
- 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.
- Install and open Smart Switch on the computer.
- Connect the Galaxy device using its supplied USB cable and wait for Smart Switch to detect it.
- If Update appears, select it and follow the prompts.
- Keep the cable connected and do not use the device until the process finishes. The device reboots as part of the update.
If the computer route is inconvenient, the built-in Settings route remains the ordinary way to check and install an offered update.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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
Rank #4
- 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.
Which update method should you use?
| Method | Use it when | What you need to know |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Settings | You can open the device’s update settings and reach the update service. | Some carriers require Wi-Fi. Menu labels vary by model, software version, and carrier. |
| Smart Switch | You want to check from a computer, or the on-device route is not suitable. | Use Smart Switch on Windows or Mac and connect with the supplied USB cable. Select Update only if it appears. |
Samsung support references
- Samsung US: How to update your Galaxy phone or tablet
- Samsung Canada: How software updates happen on your Samsung Galaxy (page last updated March 14, 2026; guidance for devices sold in Canada)
- Samsung Caribbean: How to update your Samsung Galaxy device (page last updated September 22, 2026)
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