Users of smartphone series Samsung Galaxy A7 often wonder about the current and maximum version of the operating system installed on their device. This line has been produced for several years, and depending on the year the model was released, the software on them may differ radically. Understanding what is on your gadget is critical for installing compatible applications and assessing data security. which Android installed on your gadget, it is critical for installing compatible applications and assessing data security.
Owners of devices produced in 2016, 2017 and 2018 are faced with different support scenarios from the manufacturer. While some models received their final major updates several years ago, others may still be receiving security patches or have an active developer community offering alternative solutions. In this article we will analyze in detail the evolution of firmware for each generation Galaxy A7.
Knowing the exact software version will help you decide whether to replace your smartphone or try to extend its life through custom methods. Next, we will look at the technical details, update paths and pitfalls that can be encountered when using these popular devices.
The evolution of the operating system in the Galaxy A7 line
The line Samsung Galaxy A7 has gone from outdated versions of Android to relatively modern shells, although support for official updates for most models has already been discontinued. Initially, devices were released with different versions of the system, which determined their further life cycle. For example, the 2016 model started with Android 5.1 Lollipop, while the 2018 version immediately received Android 8.0 Oreo.
Samsung traditionally uses its own add-on One UI (formerly Samsung Experience and TouchWiz), which significantly changes the visual style and functionality of standard Android. The transition to new versions was often accompanied by changes to the interface and the addition of new security features. However, it is worth noting that the hardware of Exynos or Snapdragon processors in older models often became an obstacle to obtaining the latest versions of the OS.
You can check the exact version of Android in the Settings → About phone → Software information menu. It indicates not only the system version, but also the date of the last security update.
Today, most devices in this series are at the "End of Life" stage in terms of official support. This means Google no longer certifies new apps for older versions of Android, which could lead to problems running banking apps or messaging apps. It is important to ensure that your system version is not lower than the minimum required by developers of popular services.
Characteristics of the Samsung Galaxy A7 (2016) and update status
The model SM-A710F, released at the end of 2015, became one of the first in the updated A series. Initially, the device worked under control Android 5.1.1 Lollipop with TouchWiz shell. Subsequently, Samsung released a major update to Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, which became the final update for this device.
Users of this model are often interested in the possibility of installing newer versions. Unfortunately, due to driver and processor architecture limitations, the official update path is closed at version 6.0. This creates certain risks when using a smartphone in 2026-2026, since many modern applications require at least Android 8 or 9.
⚠️ Attention: Using Android 6.0 today may be unsafe for entering payment data, since support for old encryption protocols has been discontinued by many banks.
However, for basic tasks such as calls, SMS and music playback, the device remains functional. It is possible to install custom ROMs, such as LineageOS, which allow you to upgrade the system version to Android 7 or even 9, but this requires unlocking the bootloader and technical skills.
Updates for Samsung Galaxy A7 (2017)
Version 2017 (SM-A720F) received longer support and became popular due to its metal case and water protection. The smartphone was released with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow and subsequently received an update to Android 8.0 Oreo with the Samsung Experience 9.0 shell.
This update brought significant improvements in performance and Do Not Disturb mode. However, this is where official support ended. Many users tried to find ways to install Android 9 or 10, but there were no stable official releases. The Exynos 7880 hardware platform allowed it to work faster than its predecessor, but the update resource was exhausted.
For those still using this model, it is critical to check for the latest security patches, which could arrive even after major OS updates have stopped. In the phone settings, this can be done through the item Settings → Software update.
Why did Samsung stop supporting the A7 2017?
Manufacturers usually support devices for 2-3 years with major updates. A7 2017 was released at the beginning of 2017, and by 2019 the support cycle ended in favor of the new A series models.
Android versions on the Samsung Galaxy A7 (2018)
The most modern model in the classic numbering is SM-A750FN (2018). This device was the first in the series with a triple camera and came with a pre-installed Android 8.0 Oreo. Unlike previous models, the “eighteenth” A7 received two major system updates. First, the phone was updated to the new One UI 1.0 shell, which radically changed the ergonomics of one-finger control. Later, the device received a final update to One UI 2.0. This made the A7 2018 the longest-lasting and most functional smartphone in the line in terms of software.
First the phone was updated to Android 9.0 Pie with the new One UI 1.0 shell, which radically changed the ergonomics of one-finger control. Later the device received a final update to Android 10 with One UI 2.0. This makes the A7 2018 the longest-lasting and most capable smartphone in the lineup in terms of software.
The presence of Android 10 allows you to install most modern applications from Google Play without problems. However, it is worth considering that even this model no longer receives regular security updates, which can be critical for corporate use.
| Model | Year of release | Start version of Android | Maximum version of Android | Shell |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy A7 (2016) | 2015-2016 | 5.1.1 Lollipop | 6.0.1 Marshmallow | TouchWiz |
| Galaxy A7 (2017) | 2017 | 6.0.1 Marshmallow | 8.0 Oreo | Samsung Experience |
| Galaxy A7 (2018) | 2018 | 8.0 Oreo | 10 (Q) | One UI |
Only the 2018 model supports Android 10, which is a critical advantage for compatibility with modern software.
How to check and install available updates
The software update process on Samsung smartphones is standardized and does not require a connection to a computer if there is a stable Internet connection. To check the latest version, you need to go to the device settings. The path usually looks like this: Settings → Device maintenance → Software update.
Before starting the download, make sure that the battery level is at least 50% and the Wi-Fi network connection is stable. Interrupting the download or installation process may damage system files and require flashing through service mode.
☑️ Preparing for a system update
If the phone reports that “the software has been updated to the latest version,” but you know that there are newer versions for your model in other regions, you can use the app Smart Switch for PC. She sometimes sees updates that do not arrive “over the air” (OTA).
⚠️ Attention: When using Smart Switch, do not disconnect the USB cable until the process is complete, otherwise the smartphone may enter Download Mode.
Custom firmware and the risks of unofficial updates
For owners of 2016 and 2017 models, for whom the installed version of Android is not enough, the only solution is often to install custom firmware (Custom ROM). Popular projects such as LineageOS or Resurrection Remixallow you to install Android 10 or 11 even on older devices.
However, this process is fraught with serious risks. To install such firmware, you need to unlock the bootloader, which automatically resets the phone to factory settings and triggers the Knox counter. Triggering Knox permanently disables features such as Samsung Pay, Secure Folder, and some banking applications.
adb reboot bootloader
fastboot oem unlock
In addition, custom firmware may be unstable: the camera may shoot worse and battery consumption may increase. Before deciding to flash the firmware, carefully study the developer forums (for example, w3bsit3-dns.com or XDA Developers) specifically for your model (SM-A710F, SM-A720F or SM-A750FN).
What is a Knox counter?
This is an electronic fuse in Samsung processors. When you try to install unofficial software, it is physically burned out. It is impossible to restore it, even if you return the official firmware.
⚠️ Attention: Installing unofficial software will void the device’s warranty (if it was still valid) and can turn the phone into a “brick” if a user error occurs.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to update the Samsung Galaxy A7 2016 to Android 10?
Officially - no, support stopped at Android 6.0. Unofficially - yes, there are custom firmware based on Android 10, but their installation requires skills and carries the risk of data loss and warranty.
Why is the update not coming to the Galaxy A7 2018?
This model received the final update to Android 10. New versions (Android 11, 12 and higher) are not officially provided for this processor and volume RAM.
Is it safe to use a banking app on Android 6?
Most banking applications no longer support Android 6.0 due to security reasons. It is recommended to use devices with a system version no lower than Android 8 or 9.
How can I find out the exact model of my Galaxy A7?
Go to Settings → About phone. The model number will be indicated there, for example, SM-A750FN. This information is necessary to find suitable firmware.
Will the update delete my photos and contacts?
The official update over the air (OTA) or via Smart Switch does not delete user data. However, before any update, it is strongly recommended to make a backup copy.