Samsung's Galaxy S21 FE starts getting its last major One UI update

Samsung has begun rolling out the much-awaited One UI 8.0 update to the Galaxy S21 FE, bringing new features and optimizations to the device. This is a significant software release for owners, as it’s the fourth major One UI update for the Fan Edition phone and fulfills Samsung's software promise. Based on the company's original support commitment, this Android 16-based update will be the last major OS version the phone receives.

The Galaxy S21 FE's software journey started when it launched in early 2022 with Android 12 (One UI 4.0) pre-installed. It received the Android 13 update later that year, followed by Android 14 in late 2023. After an update to Android 15 a few months ago, this new Android 16 build completes its major upgrade cycle. This does not mean the phone is immediately insecure, however. You can expect the S21 FE to continue receiving security patches for at least another year. It is also worth noting that Samsung recently shifted the S21 FE from a monthly to a quarterly security update schedule, so you will see those patches less frequently.

One UI 8.0 brings several refinements. You will notice a new design for the Samsung Internet browser, Quick Share, and the Weather app, which now features more realistic visuals. The update also provides more customization options for your lock screen and the Quick Panel. For those who use automation, the Modes And Routines app gets an upgrade with more available actions and conditions, including new presets and the ability to pull data from apps like the Clock and Calendar. Other practical additions include a scientific calculator that now functions in portrait view and improved Samsung DeX support, which now enables WQHD output.

While this update brings many changes, it does not include every new One UI 8 feature. The S21 FE's build skips a few features, such as the "Best Face" camera feature, AI-powered wallpaper suggestions from the Gallery, and the "Adaptive lock screen clock."

The update to Android 16 is currently rolling out to Galaxy S21 FE users in Thailand and Vietnam. The firmware carries the version number G990EXXUIHYJ2 and includes the September 2025 security patch. The download size is over 2GB, so using a Wi-Fi network is recommended. If you are in those regions, you can check for the update by navigating to Settings, opening Software update, and then tapping Download and Install. Once the file is downloaded, you can tap the Install now button to begin the installation.