The smartphone Samsung Galaxy A50, released in 2019, initially went on sale with an operating system Android 9.0 Pie and a proprietary shell One UI 1.1. However, during its life cycle the device received several major updates, which is rare for the mid-market segment. Users often wonder to which version this device can be officially updated and whether it is worth looking for alternative ways.
Currently, the latest official version of the software for this model is Android 11 with shell One UI 3.1. Samsung has stopped supporting Galaxy A50 security updates and new OS versions at the end of 2021. This means that using standard methods through the device settings it is impossible to go higher than this version.
However, the life of a smartphone does not necessarily end with official support. There are many enthusiasts who develop custom firmware that allows you to install more recent versions Android 12, 13 and even 14. In this article we will look in detail at how to check the current version, how to perform an official update and what risks exist when installing unofficial software.
Update history and current software status
The update path Samsung Galaxy A50 was quite consistent. Initially, the device worked on the base Android 9, which ensured stable operation and a good balance between performance and power consumption. A few months after the start of sales, users received an update to Android 10 with shell One UI 2.0, which brought an improved dark theme and new navigation gestures.
The final major update was the implementation of Android 11. This is a significant step, as this version brings important changes to the management of application permissions and notifications. The shell One UI 3.1 also optimized the work with the clipboard and improved integration with the Samsung ecosystem.
⚠️ Attention: Official support for security updates for the Galaxy A50 has been discontinued. This means that the device no longer receives patches to eliminate system vulnerabilities from the manufacturer.
It is important to understand the difference between the kernel version Android and the interface version One UI. Even if you do not update the system, the interface may receive small patches through the store Galaxy Store. However, fundamental changes are only possible by changing the OS version.
How to check the current version of Android
Before taking any action to update, you need to know exactly what software is currently installed on your device. This information is crucial for deciding on further steps.
The verification procedure is as simple as possible and takes less than a minute. You need to go to the settings menu and find the appropriate section. The path may differ slightly depending on the current version of the shell, but the logic remains the same.
Follow these steps:
- 📱 Open the application
Settingson the main screen. - 📜 Scroll the list to the very bottom and select the item
Phone information. - 💻 Click on the section
Software information.
In the window that opens you will see several lines. We are interested in the string Android version. The number indicated there (for example, 9, 10 or 11) is the answer to your question. Also pay attention to One UI version, as it determines the visual style and set of functions.
Tap "Build number" 7 times in a row to activate developer mode. This is a hidden feature that is useful for advanced users.
Instructions for officially updating the system
If the check shows that you have a lower version installed Android 11, it is strongly recommended to update to the latest available official version. This will ensure maximum stability and compatibility with modern applications.
The update can be performed in two ways: directly through a smartphone (over the air) or using a computer and a app Odin. The first method is simpler and safer for the average user.
To update over the air (OTA):
- Connect your smartphone to a Wi-Fi network and make sure that the battery charge is at least 50%.
- Go to
Settings → Software update. - Press the button
Download and install.
The system will contact Samsung servers and check for new firmware. If an update is found, the download will begin. After the download is complete, the system will prompt you to reboot for installation.
☑️ Preparing for a software update
⚠️ Attention: Do not interrupt the update installation process. Turning off the phone or losing connection during the firmware update can lead to damage to the system partition and loss of data.
Sometimes the update does not arrive immediately. This is normal, since the mailing occurs in waves. If the button is inactive, wait a few days or check for an update manually later.
Switching to custom firmware: Android 12, 13 and later
For those who want to get a more recent user experience, the only option is to install custom firmware. The XDA developer community has created ports Android 12 (LineageOS), Android 13 and even test builds Android 14 for the model SM-A505F/DS.
This process requires unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader) and installing a custom recovery, for example TWRP. The procedure is more complicated and carries certain risks, but it allows you to breathe new life into the device.
Main advantages of custom firmware:
- 🚀 Higher performance by removing unnecessary Samsung software.
- 🔒 Current security patches (depending on the developer firmware).
- 🎨 New functions and interface of the latest versions of Android.
However, there are also significant disadvantages. Cameras on custom firmware often perform worse due to the lack of original image processing drivers. There may also be problems with the operation of Samsung Pay and some banking applications due to the protection being triggered Knox.
What is a Knox trigger?
This is a physical fuse inside the smartphone. When the bootloader is unlocked, it is irreversibly triggered, which leads to loss of warranty and disabling Samsung's protected features (Secure Folder, Pay).
Comparison of Android versions on the Galaxy A50
To better understand the difference between the available versions, let's look at the key differences in functionality and performance. Each new version brought its own changes to privacy management and interface.
| Android version | One UI shell | Key features | Support status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9.0 Pie | 1.1 | Basic stability, digital balance | Outdated |
| 10 | 2.0 / 2.5 | Dark theme, navigation gestures | No updates |
| 11 | 3.1 | One-time permissions, chat bubbles | Latest official |
| 12+ (Custom) | Absent / AOSP | You material, widgets, privacy | Unofficial |
As can be seen from the table, the transition from Android 9 to 11 gives a noticeable increase in ease of use. However, switching to custom versions requires compromises in terms of camera stability and proprietary functions.
The official version of Android 11 is the “golden mean” for the Galaxy A50, providing a balance between modern functions and hardware stability.
Problems after the update and ways to solve them
Sometimes after a system update Users experience device slowdowns or rapid battery drain. This is due to the fact that the system takes time to optimize files and rebuild the application cache.
If the smartphone gets hot or slows down in the first 2-3 days after the update, this is normal. Let your device run in the background by charging it overnight. Usually the problem resolves itself.
In cases where problems persist longer, it is recommended to perform a factory reset. This will clear system junk and old settings conflicts. Don't forget to save important data first.
⚠️ Warning: Resetting your settings will delete all your personal data, photos and contacts. Be sure to create a backup copy before starting the procedure.
To perform a reset, go to Settings → General settings → Reset → Reset data. Confirm the action and wait for the reboot. After this, the phone will work like new.
Is it possible to return to the old version of Android?
Yes, this is possible using a computer and the Odin app. You will need to find the official firmware (binary file) for your regional version and download it in Download Mode. However, this will erase all data.
Why is the Android 11 update not coming?
Perhaps your region has not yet received the newsletter, or modified system files are installed on your phone. Try checking the update manually or use Smart Switch on your PC.
Is it safe to install custom firmware on the A50?
This carries risks. You may lose your warranty (if you still have one), encounter a camera that doesn't work, or get bricked if there is an error in the instructions. Do this only if you understand the risks.
How to find the exact model of a smartphone?
The full model is listed in the section Phone information. For Galaxy A50, this is usually SM-A505F (global) or SM-A505FN (Europe). This is important when searching for firmware.
Does the Android version affect the operation of banking applications?
Yes. Some banks require a minimum security version. On Android 11, most applications work correctly, but on custom firmware there may be problems due to root access or an unlocked bootloader.