David Imel / Android Authority
TL;DR
- A new rumor suggests the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE could land with Android 12.
- If true, it would likely be the first Samsung phone to launch with Android 12 out-of-the-box.
- It would also mean the phone would see Android 15 instead of the limit of Android 14 for other Galaxy S21 phones.
However, a very recent rumor suggests the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE could be the first Samsung phone to launch with Android 12 out-of-the-box (via SamMobile). This would be a pretty high honor for the phone, as that status is usually reserved for the newest Galaxy S phone of the year.
If true, this rumor would also mean the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE would be a better buy than the Galaxy S21. Theoretically, the FE model should have a lot of the same specs as the mainline Galaxy S21 — not to mention a lower price. If it also comes with Android 12, that means it will see one year more of Android upgrade support as compared to the Galaxy S21 lineup.
Since Samsung offers three Android upgrades to its phones, the Galaxy S21 FE would see Android versions 13, 14, and 15. Meanwhile, even the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra will only see Android 14.
Obviously, the Galaxy S22 models would also see up to Android 15. However, if you can’t afford a Galaxy S22, the Galaxy S21 FE might be a better fallback than the Galaxy S21.
If the rumors are true, Samsung could announce the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE at CES 2022, which happens in early January. Stay tuned!
