Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth pausing for a moment. If, like me, you’ve grown attached to your smartphone as much more than a gadget—your on-the-go map, personal assistant, and entertainment hub—software updates can feel like a lifeline. They promise new features, security patches and the satisfaction of a device that hums along smoothly. That’s why Samsung’s recent announcement came as a surprise to many: not every Galaxy owner will be invited to the Android 14 party. Let’s see who gets the invitation and who’s left waiting by the door.
google, samsung and android 14: a tale of backtracking
When Google unlocked the preview of Android 14 for its Pixel line on 5 October, there was a tangible buzz among early adopters. I remember queuing at the kitchen table, coffee in hand, as my Pixel 8 Pro buzzed with the fresh firmware – a reminder that this is the world’s most popular operating system striving for ever smoother performance. In the words of Google’s developer blog, “Android 14 focuses on improved privacy, updated lock screen controls and a host of performance optimisations to make your phone feel like new again.” For the latest Pixel 8 series, Google even extended its update policy to a bold seven-year guarantee, signalling a shift towards longer software lifecycles.
Why the 12-5-30 Incline Walking Method Is the Ultimate Fat-Burning Workout, According to Fitness Experts
The ultimate trick to banish mold from your bathroom grout in just 7 minutes—no vinegar or baking soda needed
Across town, Samsung’s engineers have been equally busy adapting Android 14 into their signature One UI 6 interface, promising a sleeker look, refined icons and smarter quick-settings. A friend who sneaked an early One UI 6 build onto her Galaxy Z Flip 4 reports smoother animations and a refreshed colour palette that feels both modern and distinctly Samsung. Yet, excitement has been tempered by the realisation that not every Galaxy handset will taste this upgrade.
which samsung phones will and won’t get android 14
Early this month, Samsung surprised and disappointed some of its most loyal customers by announcing that the once-popular Galaxy S20 would be withdrawn from the list of phones eligible for Android 14. It appears to have been something of a U-turn. Just weeks ago, Samsung had confirmed the S20 among its lineup of devices due to receive the next version of its software. Now, the company has officially backtracked, clarifying that the 2020-vintage S20 was always slated for only three major updates, a plan outlined at launch.
It’s a bit like training for a marathon only to find the organisers have shortened the course at the last minute – frustrating if you’ve geared up for the full distance. In its public statement, Samsung admitted it had “missed the mark” in communicating its support schedule, and it took the opportunity to reconfirm the final roster of Galaxy phones that will see the update rollout early next year.
Here’s the shortlist of five Samsung phones that will miss out on Android 14:
- Samsung Galaxy S20
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20
- Samsung Galaxy Fold 2
- Samsung Galaxy Flip 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Flip LTE
If your device is on this list, you can expect continued security patches but no fresh Android version or One UI 6 features. For many, this means weighing up whether to stick with familiar hardware or consider an upgrade.
On the flip side, owners of the following models can look forward to the new software wave, anticipated to begin in November in select regions and expand globally in Q1 2024:
Galaxy S series
- S23 Ultra, S23+, S23
- S22 Ultra, S22+, S22
- S21 Ultra, S21+, S21
Galaxy Z series
- Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5
- Z Fold 4, Z Flip 4
- Z Fold 3, Z Flip 3
Galaxy A series
- A54, A53, A34, A33
Galaxy M series
- M54, M53 5G, M34, M33 5G
If you’re lucky enough to hold one of these devices, simply head to Settings → Software update and keep an eye on your download status as Samsung phases the release by region.
In a market where software longevity is increasingly prized, this episode highlights the challenge manufacturers face in balancing new feature support with hardware limitations. If long-term updates matter to you, it might be worth comparing each brand’s promise before choosing your next handset. After all, it’s better to know in advance how far your phone’s software journey will take you.
Similar Posts
- Bad news for Samsung users : no more updates starting March 2024
- Samsung Admits Most Phones Won’t Receive New AI Features—Here’s Why
- For Gen Z, dating someone with an Android phone can be a dealbreaker
- Why turning off your phone’s Wi-Fi when you leave home is essential for security
- Boost your smartphone security by turning off Wi-Fi every time you leave home
Hi, I’m Brandon from the Decatur Metro team. I guide you through the trends and events reshaping our region.
