Samsung’s Galaxy S21 FE is finally getting the Android 16-based One UI 8.0 update — and this one’s special. It’s the last major software upgrade the Fan Edition will ever see, wrapping up a surprisingly long and steady support run that began nearly four years ago.
Rolling Out First in Asia
Reports coming out of Thailand and Vietnam show that the update is now live. The new build, labeled G990EXXUIHYJ2, clocks in at just over 2GB. You’ll definitely want Wi-Fi before starting the download.
It includes the September 2025 security patch, which tightens up vulnerabilities and boosts system stability. Users in other regions should start seeing the update over the next few weeks, depending on their carrier and region.
To install it manually, open Settings → Software update → Download and install, then tap Install now once it’s ready. The process takes roughly 10 minutes — pretty standard for a major build.
A Four-Year Journey Comes Full Circle
The Galaxy S21 FE launched in early 2022 with Android 12 onboard. Since then, it’s received four major updates — something few phones in its price range have matched. Each version brought small but meaningful improvements without slowing down performance.
With One UI 8.0, the phone officially reaches its update limit. But that’s not a disappointment — it’s more like closure. The S21 FE has outlived most midrange Android phones from the same year, proving how much Samsung’s software policy has evolved.
It’s fair to say the device aged well. Even today, it feels responsive, efficient, and solidly built — a sign of Samsung’s maturing software ecosystem.
What’s New in One UI 8.0
The update brings quiet but welcome refinements. Apps like Samsung Internet, Quick Share, and Weather get updated designs. Modes and Routines gain more customization options, and the Quick Panel feels easier to tweak.
There’s also extra polish on animations, faster app switching, and better power efficiency. Nothing revolutionary — but it’s the kind of subtle improvement that keeps a phone feeling fresh.
Some users online have described it as a “refinement pass,” which sounds about right. It’s smoother, more cohesive, and overall, more consistent.
Still Secure, Just No More OS Jumps
While Android 16 is the last big version for the S21 FE, Samsung’s not abandoning it just yet. Expect security updates to continue well into 2026, ensuring the phone stays safe and reliable. For users who like to hold on to their devices, that’s reassuring. The S21 FE may not get another Android logo, but it’s still very much alive.
Key Points
- Android 16 now live for Galaxy S21 FE.
- Rollout first in Thailand and Vietnam.
- Firmware version G990EXXUIHYJ2, 2GB in size.
- Adds UI refresh, new app tweaks, and stability fixes.
- Marks final major OS version for S21 FE.
Source from Gizchina
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