Updating the operating system is always an exciting moment for smartphone owners, especially when it comes to such a large-scale release as Android 12. For users of the Samsung ecosystem, this update marked the transition to a shell One UI 4that brought a radically new visual style and improved ergonomics. Many owners of devices from previous years are wondering whether their gadget will be included in the list of lucky ones who have earned support for the new platform.
Samsung is known for its generous device support policy, which in recent years has become one of the best on the market. Unlike many competitors, the Korean giant has released a major update not only for flagships, but also for mid-budget models of the Galaxy A i Galaxy Mseries. Understanding which specific models Samsung phones that will receive Android 12will help you plan the further use of the gadget or decide to replace it.
In this article we will analyze in detail the full list of compatible devices, the technical nuances of switching to a new version of the software and hidden functions that were activated after installation. You will learn how to check for an update manually and what to do if your phone still has not received the coveted update. The information is structured so that you can quickly find your model and assess the prospects for its support.
Global list of compatible flagship devices
The flagship line Galaxy S traditionally receives updates first. Owners of series devices Galaxy S21 were among the first to try out the new capabilities of the system. However, Android 12 support has also extended to older models, which was a pleasant surprise for many users. If you have one of the top smartphones of the last three years in your pocket, the probability of receiving an update is close to one hundred percent.
Particular attention should be paid to folding devices. Models Galaxy Z Fold 3 i Galaxy Z Flip 3 not only received a new OS, but also an optimized interface for large screens. One UI 4 brought improved multitasking and new gestures, which are critical for the form factor of clamshells and books. For these devices, the update is not just a change in version, but a significant improvement in the user experience.
Below is a list of the main flagship models that have confirmed compatibility with the new platform. The list may vary depending on the region of sale and the specific telecom operator, but global versions are guaranteed to receive the update.
- 📱 Galaxy S21 series: S21, S21+, S21 Ultra 5G - were among the first to receive the update with camera optimization.
- 📱 Galaxy S20 series: S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, S20 FE (4G and 5G versions) - full support for all functions of the new shell.
- 📱 Galaxy series Note: Note 20, Note 20 Ultra, Note 10, Note 10+ - the latest major OS version for the legendary series with a stylus.
- 📱 Folding smartphones: Z Fold 2, Z Fold 3, Z Flip, Z Flip 3, Z Fold 4 - improved work with multi-window mode.
⚠️ Attention: For owners of series devices Galaxy S10 i Note 9 it is worth knowing that Android 12 was the final major OS update for them. After this, support will be limited to security patches only.
Support in the mid-range and budget segment
Previously, budget smartphones were ignored by developers a year after their release, but the situation has changed dramatically. The series Galaxy A became a real hit thanks to its long support. Mid-range models released in 2020 and 2021 have received a massive update to Android 12. This allowed millions of users to enjoy a modern interface without the need to buy an expensive flagship.
Device series Galaxy M, focused on online sales and high-capacity batteries, were also included in the update schedule. Although the delay in firmware release for these models could be several months compared to flagships, the functionality remained identical. Users gained access to new widgets, an improved quick settings panel and a privacy system.
The key compatibility factor for budget devices was the amount of RAM. Models with 4 GB RAM or more worked stably with the new system, while on devices with 3 GB, slight slowdowns in the interface could be observed. However, Samsung has optimized the code so that the update is available to the widest possible range of devices.
| Device series | Specific models | Update features |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy A (2021) | A72, A52, A52s, A32, A22 | Full support for One UI 4, new widgets |
| Galaxy A (2020) | A71, A51, A42 5G | Updated menu design, improved camera |
| Galaxy M (2021) | M52 5G, M32, M22 | Optimized power consumption, new launcher |
| Galaxy F | F62, F52 5G | Similar to M series, regional differences |
Before installing a major update on a budget smartphone, be sure to free up at least 5 GB of internal memory to avoid errors when unpacking firmware files.
Technical requirements and installation process
For successful installation Android 12 your device must meet a number of technical criteria, in addition to the model. First of all, this means having enough free space and the latest version of the bootloader. The update process can occur in two ways: over the air (OTA) or through a computer using proprietary software.
If the automatic notification does not arrive, you can try to force the scan manually. To do this, you need to go to your phone settings and find the appropriate section. The path usually looks like this: Settings → Software update → Download and installation. Pressing the test button will start communication with Samsung servers.
In some cases, especially for devices purchased from telecom operators or in other regions, the update may be delayed. Then a app Smart Switch for PC comes to the rescue. By connecting your phone to your computer with a cable, you can initiate a check for updates directly, bypassing mobile network restrictions.
adb shell pm get-install-locationThis command is useful for advanced users who want to check the current installation location of applications before updating, although it is not required for the standard procedure. The main thing is to ensure a stable connection and a battery charge of at least 50%.
☑️ Ready for the Android 12 update
Key innovations of One UI 4 based on Android 12
The transition to a new version of the OS is not just a change of numbers, but a change in the philosophy of interaction with device. One UI 4 brought the concept of “ergonomics-oriented design”. The controls have moved to the bottom of the screen, making large smartphones much more convenient to use with one hand. The visual style has become softer, using translucent elements and new fonts.
One of the most noticeable features is the color palette Material You. The system automatically analyzes your wallpaper and suggests a color scheme for icons, widgets and settings menus that matches the image. This allows you to personalize the interface without deep design knowledge.
Privacy tools have also been significantly improved. There is an indicator in the top right corner of the screen that turns green when an app is using the camera or microphone. In your privacy settings, you can now see a summary of what data apps have requested and how often in the last 24 hours.
⚠️ Attention: After updating to Android 12, some older third-party app widgets may not display correctly or change in size. It is recommended to check the desktop and, if necessary, reinstall important widgets.
Hidden function of the voice recorder
The new version of the voice recorder has the ability to transcribe speech into text in real time, but this function only works on devices with a Snapdragon processor and depends on the region of sale.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
Like any major release, updating to Android 12 may be accompanied by a number of typical problems. Users often complain about rapid battery drain in the first days after installation. This is normal: the system is indexing files and optimizing applications in the background. Usually the situation stabilizes within 3-5 days of active use.
Another common problem is incorrect operation of Bluetooth connections or camera malfunctions. In most cases, this can be resolved by clearing the cache of the relevant applications or resetting the network settings. If your phone gets stuck at the Samsung logo after updating, you may need to enter Recovery Mode and perform a Wipe Data/Factory Reset.
To enter recovery mode, you need to turn off the phone and then hold down the button combination. On modern models without a physical Home button, this is usually Volume Up + Power button when connected to a PC via a USB cable. Be careful, as any actions in this menu may lead to data deletion.
- 🔋 Quick discharge: Give the phone 2-3 days to optimize, do not install heavy games during this period.
- 📶 Problems with communication: Run resetting network settings through the menu
General settings → Reset → Reset network settings. - 🐛 Interface lags: Clear the partition cache
Wipe Cache Partitionvia the Recovery menu.
90% of problems after the update are resolved independently within a week or by simply resetting the network settings, do not rush to take the phone to the service.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will old Samsung phones, such as S9 or Note 8, receive Android 12?
Unfortunately, no. Models Galaxy S9, Note 8 and older do not officially support Android 12. Their support has stopped at Android 10 or 11 depending on the region and model. Attempts to install the system using unofficial methods may damage the device.
Can I roll back to Android 11 if I don’t like the update?
Officially, this option is not provided. After installing new firmware, the version counter (Binary) increases, and returning to the old version through standard means is impossible. The only way is to flash it via Odin, but this is a complex procedure that requires searching for specific files and carries risks.
Why am I not receiving an update notification, although my model is on the list?
Updates are distributed in waves. This is done in order to avoid server overload and massive failures. The wait may take from several days to several weeks. Try checking the update manually in the settings or through the Smart Switch app on your PC.
Will the Android 12 update delete my photos and contacts?
No, the over-the-air (OTA) update preserves all user data, applications and settings. However, it is always recommended to make a backup copy of important data before any serious manipulations with the system in case of unexpected failures during the installation process.
⚠️ Attention: Information about the timing of updates for specific regions may change. It is best to track the exact publication schedule in the official Samsung Members application or on the support website.