Samsung Galaxy S21 Receives August 2024 Security Patch Update

Samsung has started rolling out the August 2024 security update for the Galaxy S21 series. The update is currently available in Vietnam. The update’s PDA version number ends with GXGC. The update will likely be expanded to more markets.

Galaxy owners are eagerly waiting for Android 15, but Samsung keeps bringing the latest security patch. The August 2024 security patch focuses on improving system security and privacy for Galaxy S21 series users.

This update can be identified by its PDA version numbers G998BXXUCGXGC for the Galaxy S21 Ultra, G996BXXUCGXGC for the Galaxy S21 Plus, and G991BXXUCGXGC for the Galaxy S21.

This Security Maintenance Release also includes patches from Samsung Semiconductor, addressing the following CVE item: [High: CVE-2024-3196].

How to update:

To install the latest security update go to Settings > Software update > Download and install.

While Galaxy S21 users are eager to receive Android 15, Samsung is expected to launch the Android 15-based One UI 7 Beta later this month. The delay in Google’s Android 15 release has pushed back Samsung’s Beta Program but the Galaxy S21 series would get access to the new OS later this year only.

The Galaxy S21 series was originally launched in 2021. The handsets came pre-installed with the Android 11. This year, the series will receive its final major upgrade along with another feature drop in early 2025.

For those considering an upgrade, 2025 might be the perfect time. Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumored to feature a design shift back to rounded corners after experimenting with a boxy design in the Galaxy S22 Ultra, S23 Ultra, and S24 Ultra.