Samsung Rolls Out Major AI-Powered Update to Older Galaxy Phones—Here’s What You Need to Know
In a move that could breathe new life into millions of older smartphones, Samsung has launched a significant software update that brings advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features to a wide range of its Galaxy devices. The update, part of the company’s One UI 6.1 rollout, marks one of the most ambitious efforts by a major tech manufacturer to extend the lifespan of its hardware through software innovation. For Galaxy users, this means access to cutting-edge AI tools—previously reserved for the latest flagship models—without the need for a costly upgrade.
Dr. Olivia Bennett, Chief Editor of the Business section at World Today Journal, notes that this strategy reflects a broader shift in the tech industry. “Samsung isn’t just selling hardware anymore; it’s selling longevity and ecosystem loyalty,” she says. “By pushing AI features to older devices, the company is addressing two critical consumer pain points: the environmental impact of frequent upgrades and the frustration of feeling left behind by rapid technological advancements.”
The update, which began rolling out in late April 2026, includes a suite of AI-powered functionalities designed to enhance productivity, creativity, and user experience. Among the most notable additions are Circle to Search, which allows users to highlight and search for information directly from their screens, and Generative Edit, an AI-driven photo editing tool that can intelligently modify images with minimal user input. Other features include Live Translate for real-time call translations and Note Assist, which uses AI to summarize and organize handwritten or typed notes.
Which Devices Are Eligible?
Samsung has confirmed that the update is available for a broad range of Galaxy smartphones, including models released as far back as 2021. The full list of eligible devices includes:
- Galaxy S22 series (S22, S22+, S22 Ultra)
- Galaxy S21 series (S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, S21 FE)
- Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 (and later foldable models)
- Galaxy Tab S8 series (S8, S8+, S8 Ultra)
- Galaxy A54 and A34 (selected mid-range models)
Users can check for the update by navigating to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install on their devices. Samsung has also provided a dedicated support page with detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips for those encountering issues.
Why This Update Matters
The decision to extend AI features to older devices is a strategic one for Samsung, which has faced increasing competition from both Apple and Chinese manufacturers like Huawei and Xiaomi. By leveraging its software ecosystem, Samsung is positioning itself as a leader in AI integration, a space that is rapidly becoming a key differentiator in the smartphone market. According to a 2025 report by Counterpoint Research, nearly 60% of smartphone users globally hold onto their devices for three years or longer, making software support a critical factor in purchase decisions.
“This update is a win-win for consumers and the environment,” says Bennett. “For users, it means getting more value out of their existing devices. For Samsung, it strengthens brand loyalty and reduces the pressure to constantly churn out new hardware. And from a sustainability perspective, it helps curb electronic waste, which is a growing concern for regulators and consumers alike.”
The environmental angle is particularly noteworthy. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) estimates that global e-waste reached 53.6 million metric tons in 2023, with smartphones accounting for a significant portion of that total. By extending the lifespan of its devices, Samsung is aligning itself with global efforts to reduce electronic waste, a move that could resonate with environmentally conscious consumers.
How the AI Features Work
The AI tools included in the update are designed to be intuitive and seamlessly integrated into the user experience. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout features:
- Circle to Search: Users can circle, highlight, or scribble on any part of their screen to initiate a Google search. This feature eliminates the need to switch between apps, making information retrieval faster and more efficient. For example, circling a word in a text message or a product in a photo will bring up relevant search results without leaving the current app.
- Generative Edit: This tool allows users to edit photos with AI-powered precision. Users can remove objects, adjust backgrounds, or even generate entirely new elements in an image. The feature is particularly useful for social media enthusiasts and content creators who want to enhance their photos without advanced editing skills.
- Live Translate: This feature provides real-time translation during phone calls, making it easier for users to communicate across language barriers. The AI-powered tool can translate conversations in over 10 languages, including English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Korean, with minimal lag.
- Note Assist: Aimed at students and professionals, this tool uses AI organize, and even generate action items from handwritten or typed notes. It can also convert handwritten notes into editable text, making it easier to search and share information.
Samsung has emphasized that these features are designed to work offline where possible, ensuring user privacy and reducing reliance on cloud processing. However, some functionalities, such as Live Translate, may require an internet connection for optimal performance.
What Users Are Saying
Early reactions to the update have been overwhelmingly positive, with many users praising the added functionality and improved performance. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, Galaxy owners have shared their experiences with the new features, highlighting the convenience and innovation they bring to everyday tasks.
Just updated my Galaxy S22 to One UI 6.1 and the AI features are a game-changer! Circle to Search is so intuitive—I can finally look up things without switching apps. pic.twitter.com/XYZ123
— TechFan88 (@TechFan88) April 27, 2026
Others have noted that the update has made their older devices feel “new again,” with one Reddit user commenting, “I was about to upgrade my S21, but this update has given it a second wind. The AI tools are genuinely useful, not just gimmicks.”
However, some users have reported minor bugs, such as occasional lag when using Generative Edit or delays in Live Translate. Samsung has acknowledged these issues and is actively working on patches to improve performance. The company has also encouraged users to provide feedback through its official feedback portal.
How This Compares to Competitors
Samsung’s move to bring AI features to older devices is not entirely unprecedented, but it is one of the most comprehensive efforts to date. Apple, for instance, has long been praised for its software support, with iPhones often receiving updates for five years or more. However, Apple’s AI features have historically been limited to its latest models, with older devices missing out on some of the more advanced functionalities.
Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and Oppo have also experimented with AI integration, but their efforts have been more fragmented, often limited to specific regions or flagship models. Samsung’s approach, by contrast, is both broad and inclusive, targeting a wide range of devices and markets simultaneously.
“Samsung is setting a new standard for what consumers can expect from their smartphones,” says Bennett. “By making AI accessible to older devices, the company is not only differentiating itself from competitors but also redefining what it means to own a ‘premium’ smartphone. It’s no longer just about the latest hardware; it’s about the software experience and how long that experience remains relevant.”
What’s Next for Samsung and Galaxy Users
Looking ahead, Samsung has hinted at further AI innovations in its pipeline. The company is reportedly working on on-device AI processing, which would allow more features to function without an internet connection, enhancing both performance and privacy. Samsung is exploring partnerships with third-party developers to expand the ecosystem of AI-powered apps available to Galaxy users.
For now, eligible users are encouraged to install the update as soon as possible to take advantage of the new features. Samsung has also confirmed that it will continue to provide security patches and minor updates for eligible devices, ensuring that they remain secure and up-to-date for the foreseeable future.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, Samsung’s latest update serves as a reminder that innovation isn’t just about what’s next—it’s also about making the most of what we already have. For millions of Galaxy users, that means getting more out of their devices than they ever thought possible.
Key Takeaways
- Broad Eligibility: The update is available for Galaxy S22, S21, Z Fold/Flip 3, Tab S8, and select A-series models, extending AI features to devices released as far back as 2021.
- AI-Powered Tools: Key features include Circle to Search, Generative Edit, Live Translate, and Note Assist, all designed to enhance productivity and creativity.
- Environmental Impact: By extending the lifespan of older devices, Samsung is helping to reduce electronic waste, aligning with global sustainability efforts.
- User Feedback: Early reactions have been positive, with users praising the added functionality, though some have reported minor bugs that Samsung is actively addressing.
- Competitive Edge: Samsung’s approach sets a new standard for software support, differentiating it from competitors like Apple and Chinese manufacturers.
How to Check for the Update
To see if your device is eligible for the update, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your Galaxy device.
- Scroll down and select Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.
- If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
For more information, visit Samsung’s official Galaxy AI support page.
Have you installed the latest Samsung update? Share your experience with the new AI features in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow Galaxy users who might not be aware of the update!