Samsung’s latest flagship, the Galaxy S25, has received its first major firmware update, bringing Android 15 and One UI 7.0. However, early adopters are facing unexpected setbacks, as the new software falls behind the S24 and S23 in security updates.
According to SamMobile, the first firmware files for the S25 series are now available for Europe and the U.S. under the following versions:
- European Version: S93xBXXU1AYA1
- U.S. Version: S93xUSQU1AYA1
Why is the S25 Running an Outdated Security Patch?
While the Galaxy S25 series ships with Android 15, it is still using the December 2024 security patch—raising concerns about missing security updates from January 2025.
Both Google and Samsung released critical security updates in January, yet Samsung’s latest flagship has been left out.
- S25 Current Patch: December 2024
- S24 & S23 Current Patch: January 2025
This means that, for now, owners of the S24 and S23 actually have more up-to-date security than S25 users.
What is Samsung’s Plan for Faster Software Updates?
Samsung previously announced a new seamless update system, promising reduced downtime and quicker monthly patches. However, it seems the S25 is not benefiting from this just yet.
The S24 lineup is expected to receive One UI 7 / Android 15 in mid-February 2025, while older devices such as the S23, S22, S21, and Galaxy Z series will get updates by March or April 2025.
Why is the Galaxy S25’s Firmware File So Large?
Another surprising issue is the sheer size of the first Galaxy S25 firmware update:
| Device | First Firmware File Size |
|---|---|
| Galaxy S25 | 24GB |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | 14GB |
At 24GB, the Galaxy S25’s update is nearly twice the size of the S24 Ultra’s initial update. While Samsung has worked on reducing OS storage bloat, this unexpected increase suggests that S25 users will need more storage space than previous models.
What’s Next for Samsung S25 Users?
Samsung will likely address these concerns in upcoming updates, but for now, S24 and S23 users can feel better protected with more recent security patches.
Key updates to watch for:
- January 2025 Security Patch Release – Expected in the next update for S25 users.
- Seamless Update Rollout – Samsung’s promised faster updates should start later in 2025.
- Storage Optimization – Future updates may reduce file sizes for improved efficiency.
FAQs
Why is the Galaxy S25 behind on security updates?
Samsung shipped the S25 with December 2024’s security patch, skipping January’s update for unknown reasons.
How does the S25 compare to the S24 and S23 in software updates?
Currently, the S24 and S23 have a more recent January 2025 security patch, making them more up-to-date than the S25.
When will Samsung release the next S25 update?
The next security patch update for the S25 is expected within a few weeks, but no official date has been confirmed.
Why is the Galaxy S25’s firmware update so large?
The first firmware file is 24GB, significantly larger than the S24 Ultra’s 14GB update, possibly due to new OS features or Samsung’s new update system.
Will Samsung fix these issues in future updates?
Yes, Samsung is expected to address missing security patches, optimize storage, and improve update efficiency in future software updates.
When will the S24 and S23 receive Android 15?
- S24 Series: Mid-February 2025
- S23, S22, S21, Galaxy Z Series: By March or April 2025
Will seamless updates improve future Samsung updates?
Yes, Samsung’s new update system aims to reduce downtime, making security patches quicker and more efficient over time.
Should I be concerned about security on the S25?
While the S25 is missing the latest patch, Samsung is expected to release an update soon, so short-term security risks are minimal.
Conclusion
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 launch has brought unexpected software concerns, with missing security patches and larger-than-expected firmware updates. While the S24 and S23 remain more up-to-date, future updates should bring the S25 up to speed.
For now, Samsung users should monitor upcoming software patches as the company works to resolve these early rollout issues.
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