Samsung is Resuming Google Play System Updates on Recent Galaxy Phones
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
TL;DR
- Recent Galaxy phones are once again receiving Google Play System updates.
- This comes after Samsung paused these updates several months ago.
- Samsung temporarily halted these updates to prevent issues with new devices and One UI updates.
Samsung phone owners have been experiencing a temporary pause in Google Play System updates, but the good news is that the company is now resuming these updates on recent Galaxy devices. This pause was initially announced to address potential issues with new devices and One UI updates, but it seems that Samsung has now resolved these concerns.
According to reports from various sources, including Reddit, users with newer Galaxy phones are now receiving the Google Play System updates. The devices that are reportedly receiving these updates include the Galaxy S24 series, the Galaxy S24 FE, the Galaxy S25 series, the Galaxy A55 5G, and the Galaxy Z Fold 7. It's worth noting that most users are receiving the January 2026 Play System update, which is an improvement over being stuck on older updates like August 2025 or November 2025.
Colleague Tushar Mehta's observation that his Galaxy S25 Ultra is still on the November 2025 update suggests that Samsung is gradually unblocking these updates. Therefore, if you own a recent Galaxy phone, you might need to wait a few days to see the recent Play System updates. Samsung's decision to resume these updates coincides with the upcoming release of the Galaxy S26 phones and the One UI 8.5 updates, indicating that the company is now ready to re-enable Play System updates.
Play System updates are essential for Google to introduce new features and improvements to Android phones without the need for time-consuming, manufacturer-driven OS updates. Features like Theft Detection Lock, Instant Hotspot, and improvements to Quick Share and Google Wallet are typically delivered through these updates. This resumption of updates is a positive development for Samsung owners, ensuring they can access the latest enhancements from Google.
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