Samsung's One UI Update Highlights Need To Upgrade Galaxy S21

Samsung Electronics unveils Galaxy S24 smartphones at its Galaxy Unpacked event in San Jose

Samsung's latest One UI 6.1.1 update has sparked discussions about the future of the Galaxy S21 Ultra. The update, set to introduce new AI features to select older Galaxy phones, has left some Galaxy S21 users feeling left out.

The update will bring exclusive Fold 6 and Flip 6 features to a range of older Galaxy devices, including the Galaxy S22 range, S23 range (including the FE), Flip 4 and Fold 4, Fold 5 and Flip 5, Galaxy Tab S8, and Tab S9. However, notably absent from the list is the Galaxy S21.

Previous updates have also excluded the Galaxy S21 from receiving certain AI features, creating a noticeable gap between the Galaxy S21 and newer models like the S22. The S22 boasts features like Note Assist, generative image editing, Live Translate, Instant Slo Mo, and Portrait Studio, which are not available on the Galaxy S21.

Furthermore, Samsung's trade-in offers for the Galaxy S21 Ultra indicate a push for users to upgrade to newer models. The current trade-in value for the S21 Ultra is $500, significantly higher than its resale value on platforms like eBay. Samsung is offering even higher trade-in values for the S21 Plus, S21 FE, and base S21 models, but with a catch - users must purchase a Galaxy Z Fold 6 to qualify for these trade-in prices.

S21 users left out of new Fold 6 and Flip 6 features.

Galaxy S21 excluded from latest AI updates.

Notable gap in features between S21 and newer models like S22.

For those considering a more direct upgrade, Samsung is offering attractive trade-in values for the Galaxy S21 when purchasing the Galaxy S24. While the S21 Ultra fetches $550 in trade-in value, the base S21 and S21 FE have lower values at $200, and the S21 Plus at $300.

Despite the push for upgrades, the Galaxy S21 should still have at least one more year of software support. Users looking to save money on future upgrades may also consider trading in older models like the Galaxy S20, which can fetch up to $450 in trade-in value.

Overall, the combination of being excluded from AI updates and high trade-in prices suggests that Samsung is nudging Galaxy S21 users towards upgrading to newer models. While the decision to upgrade ultimately rests with individual users, the evolving landscape of Samsung's offerings and trade-in deals may influence their choices.