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On most Samsung Galaxy phones, go to Settings > Software update, tap Download and install or Check for updates, then follow the prompts. The exact menu wording can vary by model and software version, and updates are released at different times for different models and carriers.
Install an update from your Galaxy phone
- Connect the phone to the internet. Wi-Fi is a sensible choice because updates can be large and some carriers require Wi-Fi for downloading.
- Open Settings and tap Software update. If you do not see that option, look for System updates or check under About device; the menu location depends on the phone model and software version.
- Tap Download and install or Check for updates. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.
- Before installing, check that the phone has enough free storage and at least 50% battery charge, as Samsung advises in its US update troubleshooting guidance. Let the process finish and restart the phone when prompted.
Why you may not see an update
There is no single version number that is the latest for every Galaxy phone. Update availability depends on the model and carrier, and Samsung releases updates in waves. A missing update does not necessarily mean something is wrong with the phone. See Samsung’s guidance on Galaxy update availability.
- Confirm the exact phone model and carrier context.
- Connect to Wi-Fi and check again later in case the update has not reached your phone yet.
- If you have a carrier-sold unlocked phone, Samsung notes that the original carrier may handle its updates. An original-carrier SIM may be needed.
- If the phone still does not offer an update, try Samsung Smart Switch on a computer.
Use Smart Switch on a computer
Samsung documents Smart Switch as an alternative update route on Mac or Windows. It is worth trying if the phone’s update screen does not offer an update or its download repeatedly fails.
- Install or open Smart Switch on a Mac or Windows computer.
- Connect the phone with a USB cable and allow Smart Switch to detect it.
- Select Update if that option appears, then follow the prompts. Do not disconnect the phone while the update is in progress.
Samsung describes this method in its US Smart Switch update instructions and Malaysia Galaxy update guide. The USB cable included with the phone may work; you do not necessarily need to buy another one.
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#1 Best Overall
Sale
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
If Smart Switch does not detect the phone
- Check the USB connection setting on the phone and choose its file-transfer mode.
- Try another USB port or cable, or connect the phone to a different computer.
- Check that the computer and Smart Switch are working properly.
Samsung includes these connection checks in its update troubleshooting guidance.
Fix common update problems
- Not enough storage: Free space as directed by the phone, then try the update again.
- Download interrupted: Check the notification; Samsung says you may be able to resume the download from there.
- Smart Switch connection trouble: Check the phone’s USB mode, restart or update the PC as appropriate, and try a different port, cable or computer.
- Phone will not boot normally after an update failure: Samsung says service may be required. Avoid unofficial firmware downloads or improvised flashing steps.
For Samsung’s device-specific troubleshooting steps, see its Galaxy update support page.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 2
Best Value
Sale
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
Rank #4
Sale
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.
Rank #3
Sale
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.
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.
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.
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