Software Lifecycle and Updates

Frequent software updates are often necessary to resolve bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, and enhance device capabilities. However, updates can pose a stability risk. This may lead to productivity loss due to changes in underlying device functionality.

Starting with the Samsung Galaxy S24, devices will recieve 7 years of support and security patches. Device security updates are a top priority for Samsung as we continue to improve the operational processes for software updates. To view your device patching cadence, see Security Updates Scope.

Knox security patch lifecycle

The advanced software supply chain and lifecycle of Samsung mobile devices is a multi-faceted system involving the collaboration of numerous stakeholders. We address and patch security vulnerabilities by adhering to a simple, yet effective five-step lifecycle management plan:

1. External & internal change identification and development — Through Samsung’s bug bounty program, internal testing, and chipset partner testing, security issues are identified and patches are developed. This process is constantly ongoing at Samsung.
2. Software change propagation — Samsung incorporates patches from third parties such as Android, Qualcomm, MediaTek, and others into all devices. These patches may be subject to software vulnerabilities that Samsung aims to address.
3. Software binary construction and quality assurance — Samsung builds the device firmware and begins quality assurance testing in accordance with the device’s security update cadence. Different devices receive software updates at different cadences. For more information, see Samsung Security Bulletin. This process is constantly ongoing at Samsung.
4. Carrier testing — Device binaries are sent to mobile carriers to ensure they function to the highest capacity on their networks. If issues are identified, the device binary is fixed and retested.
5. Firmware release and device update — Firmware is released and devices can download the update as according to its system update configuration.

Due to the rich partnerships Samsung has formed with chipset vendors, carriers, and more, Samsung is able to consistently deliver software updates globally for hundreds of device models.

If you’re an enterprise or user who would like to learn more about the cadence of software updates for your device models, detailed information for all Android Enterprise Recommended (AER) devices is available on the Devices secured by Knox page.