What you need to Know
Samsung rolls out the January 2025 security update for flagship devices, including Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6.
Update available for manual download via Settings > Software update > Download and install.
January 2025 update might be the last patch before the launch of One UI 7.
Anticipated release of One UI 7 promises new features and improvements for flagship devices.
With the start of a new year, Samsung is at the forefront with its first security patch of 2025 for flagship Galaxy phones. Just like Google does in the updating of security for all its devices, Samsung started its rollout of the Android January 2025 security update, this time beginning with its flagship devices, including the Galaxy S24 series and its latest foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6.
The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6
Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 in mid-2024 as part of its innovative foldable phone lineup. These are the latest products from Samsung, which are considered to be the most advanced and feature-rich in terms of technology and design. However, the South Korean tech giant is also working on a more budget-friendly model, the Galaxy Z Flip FE, to make foldable phones accessible to a wider audience. This is following a disappointing sales performance for flexible screens at Samsung Display in 2024, forcing the company to concentrate on strengthening its market position in the short and medium term.
The January 2025 Security Update Rollout
Samsung is currently rolling out the January 2025 security update for the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6 in the United States. The update is available for both carrier-free and carrier-locked versions of these devices.
Galaxy Z Flip 6:
Carrier-free version: Build number F741USQS2AXLF
Carrier-locked version: Build number F741U1UES2AXLF
Galaxy Z Fold 6:
Carrier-locked version: Build number F956USQS2AXLG
Users will be notified when the update is available for download on their devices. Those who wish to manually check for the update can do so via Settings > Software update > Download and install. Carrier locked Galaxy Z Fold 6 units are already getting their update; carrier-free units will follow in due course.
Key Vulnerabilities Addressed in the Update
This is a significant update from January 2025 that will cover some of the vulnerabilities which might expose devices to attacks. Below is the breakdown of key fixes in the list.
Android Core Fixes: Google has given 29 fixes within the Android core. Among them, five have been rated "Critical" in severity. The fixes are very essential in order to avoid exploits which could lead to the remote execution of malicious code.
Samsung Mobile Specific Fixes: Samsung has provided 22 fixes aimed at vulnerabilities in its hardware and software. Among these vulnerabilities, there were critical ones that would allow unauthorized changes to a device's notification settings or enable remote execution of malicious code without prior authorization.
This update addresses vulnerabilities affecting Galaxy Android version 12, 13, and 14-running devices. The most notable vulnerability allowed third parties to alter the notification settings of an individual's Galaxy device without consent, highlighting how timely updates are needed to maintain security features.
What’s Next for Samsung Users?
This January update is probably the last security patch that flagship devices from 2024, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6, will receive before the expected launch of One UI 7. Users of more affordable models or older flagship phones may have to wait a few more weeks or even months before receiving the update.
The commitment by Samsung to release timely updates emphasizes the company's focus on keeping the user's security and the performance of their device in order. The growing use of foldable devices will only make this security imperative all the more pertinent.
The update is essential for all smartphone users, especially for those who have high-end and feature-rich smartphones like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. Samsung's January 2025 security update has addressed the critical vulnerabilities and ensured that no threat can penetrate into the device.
If you have one of these devices, be sure to check for updates regularly so your phone stays safe and runs smoothly. With new features and improvements coming with One UI 7, 2025 is looking like a pretty great year for Samsung users.
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