Smartphone Samsung Galaxy A3 is one of the most popular lines of budget devices from the Korean giant, released in several modifications from 2015 to 2017. Users often face the question: what version of Android is installed on their model is it possible to update it to the latest one? The answer depends on the specific revision of the device - A300 (2015), A310 (2016) or A320 (2017) - since each of them received a different level of support from the manufacturer.

In this article we will look at not only original versions of Android for all modifications Galaxy A3, but also the maximum possible updates, ways to check the current firmware, as well as the nuances of manual updating via Smart Switch or Odion. We will pay special attention to the problems that owners of older models face when trying to install custom firmware or bypass Samsung restrictions.

If you are planning to buy a used one Galaxy A3 or are already its owner, this information will help you assess the relevance of the device in 2026 and understand whether you should count on support for modern applications. Spoiler: for 2015–2016 models, the answer is most likely negative, but there are workarounds!

Samsung Galaxy A3 modifications: how to distinguish and which versions of Android they support

The line Galaxy A3 includes three main models that are similar in appearance, but have fundamental differences in hardware and support Software:

  • 📱 SM-A300 (2015) —the first version with a 4.5-inch screen, processor Exynos 3470 and 1.5 GB of RAM. It came out with Android 4.4 KitKat.
  • 📱 SM-A310 (2016) an updated version with a 4.7-inch display, Exynos 7578 and 1.5–2 GB of RAM. Starting OS - last revision with 4.7-inch Super AMOLED and 2 GB of RAM. Debuted on Android 5.1 Lollipop.
  • 📱 SM-A320 (2017) - latest revision with 4.7-inch Super AMOLED, Exynos 7870 and 2 GB of RAM. Debuted on Android 6.0 Marshmallow.

The key difference is Maximum version of Androidto which each model can be officially updated:

Model Original version of Android Latest official update Support for Samsung Knox
SM-A300 (2015) 4.4 KitKat 5.1.1 Lollipop No (outdated)
SM-A310 (2016) 5.1 Lollipop 7.0 Nougat Yes (limited)
SM-A320 (2017) 6.0 Marshmallow 8.0 Oreo Yes

Important: 2015–2016 models (A300/A310) no longer receive official security updates as of 2019, which makes them vulnerable to modern threats. Owners of these devices are recommended to either use alternative firmware (for example, LineageOS), or limit the installation of applications from untrusted sources.

⚠️ Attention: Some regional versions Galaxy A3 (for example, for the US or Chinese markets) may have different build numbers and available updates. Check the exact model in the settings along the path Settings → About phone → Model number.

How to check the current Android version on Samsung Galaxy A3

You can find out the firmware version in several ways. The easiest is through the settings menu:

  1. Open the application Settings (gear icon).
  2. Scroll down and select O phone (or About the device).
  3. Find the lines Android version and Build number.

Alternative method - via Recovery mode (if the phone does not turn on):

1. Turn off the device.

2. Press the Volume up + Home + Power buttons until the logo appears.


3. In the recovery menu, find the item Reboot to bootloader —the firmware version will be indicated there.

If you need more detailed information (for example, the date of the last security update), use code for the engineering menu:

*#1234#

After typing, it will be displayed window with version information AP (firmware), CP (modem) and CSC (regional settings).

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If your device does not turn on, but responds to charging, try connecting it to a PC with installed Samsung Smart Switch —the app will show the current version Software even without fully downloading the smartphone.

Is it possible to update Android on a Samsung Galaxy A3 to the latest version?

Officially, no. Samsung stopped supporting all modifications Galaxy A3 in 2019–2020. However, there are alternative methods:

  • 🔄 Custom firmware (For example, LineageOS 16/17 for A310/A320) - allow you to install Android 9–10, but require unlocking the bootloader and risk voiding the warranty.
  • ⚙️ Security patches via Magisk or Xposed —partially close vulnerabilities, but do not update the OS kernel.
  • 📱 Use of "cloud" Android (for example, Bliss OS or Phoenix OS) - launch a modern OS via virtual machine (performance will be low).

For models SM-A300 (2015) even custom firmware is limited Android 7.1 due to hardware limitations (little RAM, outdated processor). Owners of SM-A320 (2017) have access to more recent builds, but with reservations:

⚠️ Attention: Installing unofficial firmware on Galaxy A3 may lead to loss of functions Samsung Pay, Secure Folder and hardware encryption. There is also a high risk. "brick" (breakdown) in case of errors during firmware.
📊 Which version of Android would you like to see on your Galaxy A3?
Android 10 (with basic functions)
Android 12 (even if it slows down)
Stay on stock firmware
I don’t know what to choose

Step-by-step guide: how to officially update the firmware

If your device still supports official updates (relevant only for SM-A320 until 2020), follow these instructions:

Charge your phone to at least 50%|Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network|Back up your data|Close all background applications-->

  1. Through your phone settings:
    1. Go to Settings → Software update.
    2. Click Download and install.
    3. Confirm installation and wait for the reboot (takes 10-20 minutes).
  2. Via Samsung Smart Switch (for PC):
    1. Download Smart Switch from official website.
    2. Connect your phone via USB (enable Debugging by USB in the developer settings).
    3. In the app, select Update → Update.

If the update is not found, check:

  • 🌍 Firmware region (in settings About the phone → Software information → CSC codeFor example, SER - Russia, XXV —international version.
  • 🔌 Stability of the Internet connection (updates weigh 1–2 GB).
  • 🔒 Lack of root access (devices with root do not receive OTA updates).
What to do if the update is stuck at the installation stage?

If the update process is interrupted or lasts more than 30 minutes:

1. Force restart the phone (press Power + Volume down for 10 seconds).

2. If the device does not turn on, go to Recovery Mode (see instructions above) and select Wipe cache partition, then Reboot system now.

3. If the problem persists, download the full firmware via SamMobile or Frija and flash via Odion.

Problems after updating: what to do?

Updating firmware on old devices is fraught with failures. Common problems and their solutions:

Problem Possible cause Solution
The phone is very slow Lack of RAM for the new version of Android Roll back to the previous firmware or reset to factory settings
Sensors (gyroscope, compass) do not work Incompatibility of drivers in custom firmware Install a patch for sensors or return to drain
The battery runs out quickly Optimization of energy consumption has gone wrong Calibrate the battery (discharge to 0%, charge to 100% without interruptions)

If after the update Galaxy A3 stopped turning on or loading into an endless loop (bootloop), try:

  1. Load into Safe Mode (press Volume down when turning on).
  2. If that doesn’t help, flash the stock firmware via Odion with a checkmark Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time.
⚠️ Attention: On models SM-A300 (2015) after updating to Android 5.1.1 there is often a problem with loss of IMEI (the network disappears). This is a hardware bug related to the modem. The solution is to flash the modified modem.bin via Odion.

Alternative firmware for Samsung Galaxy A3: pros and cons

If official updates are not available, owners Galaxy A3 often resort to custom firmware. Let's consider the most popular options:

  • 🛠️ LineageOS (14.1–17.1):
    • ✅ Pros: Android 7–10, regular security updates, no bloatware.
    • ❌ Cons: No Samsung features (DeX, Knox), possible bugs with the camera.
  • 🔧 Havoc-OS (based on AOSP):
    • ✅ Pros: Flexible interface customization, support for themes.
    • ❌ Cons: Low stability on the A300, problems with auto brightness.
  • 📱 Resurrection Remix:
    • ✅ Pros: Combination of features from different firmware.
    • ❌ Cons: High power consumption, rare updates for A3.

To install custom firmware you will need:

  1. Unlock OEM Unlock in the developer settings (Settings → About phone → Build number - tap 7 times, then return to Settings → Developer options).
  2. Install TWRP Recovery via Odion.
  3. Make a full backup (Nandroid Backup) in TWRP.
  4. Flash the firmware + GApps (Google services).

Important: On models SM-A300 (2015), before flashing the firmware you need to patch the bootloader (bootloader) to avoid errors SECURE CHECK FAIL: BOOT. Look for instructions on the forums XDA Developers or 4PDA.

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Custom firmware can bring back to life an outdated one Galaxy A3, but require technical skills. For everyday use, it is better to consider buying a new budget smartphone (for example, Galaxy A04 or Redmi 12C).

Is it worth buying a Samsung Galaxy A3 in 2026?

Let's be honest: Galaxy A3 is an outdated device, even the newest one modification SM-A320 (2017). Here are the arguments for and against purchasing used:

Pros Cons
✅ Compact size (4.7"), fits comfortably in the hand. ❌ Outdated hardware does not support modern games and applications.
✅ Super AMOLED screen (on A310/A320) with good viewing angles. ❌ No support for 5G, NFC (except in some regions), weak camera.
✅ Cheap repairs (display, battery, connectors). ❌ No security updates - the risk of viruses and data leaks.

If you need a phone exclusively for calls, SMS and light applications. (Telegram, YouTube, maps), Galaxy A3 it may still be suitable. But for everything else, it is better to consider alternatives:

  • 📱 Samsung Galaxy A04/A14 - budget new products with Android 13 and support until 2026.
  • 📱 Xiaomi Redmi 12C - similar price, but with a processor Helio G85 and Android 12.
  • 📱 Used Galaxy A52/A72 - if you need a Samsung with long-term support.

If you still settled on Galaxy A3, be sure to:

  • 🔋 Replace the battery (the original one is already worn out).
  • 🛡️ Install an antivirus (for example, Malwarebytes).
  • 🚫 Do not use for banking and payments.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Samsung Galaxy A3 and Android

Is it possible to install Android 10 on the Galaxy A3 2015 (SM-A300)?

Technically yes, but only through unofficial ports LineageOS 17.1 or Havoc-OS. However, due to 1.5 GB of RAM, the system will be very slow. The recommended maximum version for the A300 is Android 7.1 (LineageOS 14.1).

Why doesn’t the update to Android 8.0 arrive on my A310 (2016)?

Samsung has officially released Android 7.0 Nougat for SM-A310, but only the model SM-A320 (2017) received the update to 8.0 Oreo. Solution:

  • Install custom firmware based on Android 8+ (for example, Resurrection Remix).
  • Check the firmware region - perhaps the update has not been released for your CSC.

How to return the stock firmware after an unsuccessful custom installation?

To return to the original firmware:

  1. Download the stock firmware for your model from the website SamMobile or Frija.
  2. Unpack the archive and flash through Odion in mode AP + BL + CP + CSC (full reset).
  3. If the phone does not turn on, use the combination Volume up + Home + Power to enter in Download Mode.
⚠️ Attention: Firmware of an inappropriate version (for example, A310 firmware on A300) will lead to hard brick - irreparable damage!

Which is better: Galaxy A3 2017 (A320) or Redmi 4X? Comparison

Let's compare key parameters:

Parameter Galaxy A3 2017 (A320) Redmi 4X
Processor Exynos 7870 (1.6 GHz) Snapdragon 435 (1.4 GHz)
RAM 2 GB 2–3 GB
Max Android version. data-i="289">7.1 Nougat (unofficial - 10) 8.0 Oreo 7.1 Nougat (unofficial - 10)
Screen 4.7" Super AMOLED 5.0" IPS LCD

Conclusion: Galaxy A3 wins in screen and brand, but loses in performance and support. Redmi 4X received updates longer (including MIUI 11) and has a more powerful processor.

How to increase the performance of Galaxy A3 without firmware?

Several working methods:

  • 🧹 Clear the cache through Settings → Storage → Data cache.
  • 🔄 Disable animation: activate Developer options and set Animation scale to Off.
  • 🗑️ Remove unnecessary applications (especially Facebook, Instagram - they heavily load the system).
  • 🔋 Replace the battery - a worn-out battery causes lags due to voltage drops.