Samsung’s released Android 13 for Galaxy devices which means we’re getting questions about the Galaxy Android 13 update. We’ll try and answer as many as we can in this guide.

Our roadmap will help you set proper expectations as we push toward the release of more Android 13 updates for Samsung Galaxy devices.

In this walkthrough we’ll take you through what you should know about Android 13 if you currently own, or if you’re planning to buy a Galaxy S22, Galaxy S21, Galaxy S20, Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 10, Galaxy S10, Galaxy Tab S8 or another Samsung device.

We’ll take you through what we know about Android 13’s features, the Samsung Android 13 release date for Galaxy phones and tablets, and everything else Galaxy owners need to know. We’ll start with the software rolling out alongside, and ahead of, Samsung’s Android 13 updates.

Samsung Galaxy June Update

Samsung’s pushing its June update to Galaxy phones and tablets.

The software is currently rolling out to the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20+, Galaxy S20 Ultra, Galaxy S20 FE, Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy Note 10 Lite, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 3, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy Z Flip, Galaxy A73, Galaxy A71 5G, Galaxy A53, Galaxy A52s, Galaxy A52 5G, Galaxy A52, Galaxy A51 5G, Galaxy A51, Galaxy A42 5G, Galaxy A23, Galaxy A14 5G, Galaxy A13, Galaxy A12, Galaxy A12 Nacho, Galaxy A04s, Galaxy F62, Galaxy M12, and Galaxy Tab Active 3 in select regions.

You can learn more about the contents of Samsung’s June update and its other monthly updates over on the company’s security website.

As a reminder, here’s the breakdown of Samsung’s current Android security update coverage:

Current Models for Monthly Security Updates

Current Models for Quarterly Security Updates

Current Models for Biannual Security Updates

• Galaxy A10e, Galaxy A10s, Galaxy A20s, Galaxy A30s, Galaxy A50s, Galaxy A70s, Galaxy A80, Galaxy A90 5G
• Galaxy A01, Galaxy A11, Galaxy A21, Galaxy A21s, Galaxy A31, Galaxy A41, Galaxy A51, Galaxy A51 5G, Galaxy A71, Galaxy A71 5G
• Galaxy A02, Galaxy A02s, Galaxy A12, Galaxy A42 5G, Galaxy A72, Galaxy A82 5G
• Galaxy M10s, Galaxy M30s, Galaxy M40, Galaxy M01, Galaxy M11, Galaxy M21, Galaxy M31, Galaxy M31s, Galaxy M51
• Galaxy M12, Galaxy M42 5G, Galaxy M62
• Galaxy F12, Galaxy F62
• Galaxy Tab A 8 (2019), Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020), Galaxy Tab A7, Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
• Galaxy Tab S6, Galaxy Tab S6 5G, Galaxy Tab S7+
• W20 5G, W21 5G

In early 2022, Samsung confirmed plans to keep select Galaxy phones and tablets updated with major Android releases for four years and security patches for up to five years.

So while some devices won’t get upgraded to Android 13, they’ll still get regular, and in some cases irregular, security updates in 2023 and beyond.

Samsung says availability of “security updates may vary by device and market” and that its lists of security update models are subject to change and will be reviewed on a periodic basis.

Samsung Galaxy Android 13: What’s New

Samsung’s official version of Android 13 looks different than the version Google’s pushed to Pixel devices because it utilizes the company’s One UI.

One UI upgrades typically deliver design changes, enhancements for current features, and new features for newer, and older devices, alike. And that’s exactly what’s on board Samsung’s Android 13 upgrade.

Here’s the full change log from Samsung’s Android 13/One UI 5 update:

More options for your color palette

• It’s easier to find the colors that are right for you. Choose from up to 16 color themes based on your wallpaper as well as preset color themes that aren’t related to your wallpaper.

Stack widgets on your Home screen

• Combine several widgets of the same size into a single widget to save space on your Home screen. Just drag a widget onto the stack to add it, then swipe to switch between widgets.

Easily see who’s calling

• Set a different call background for each contact so you easily see who’s calling with just a quick glance.

Get only the notifications you allow

• When you use an app for the first time, you’ll be asked whether you want to receive notifications from it. Feel free to say no to apps that you don’t want to disturb you.

Easier access to app notification controls

• Is an app sending you too many notifications? It’s easier than ever to block it with reorganized notification settings placing app notification controls at the top.

Choose which types of notifications apps can send

• You now have separate control over whether apps can show pop-up notifications, app icon badges, and notifications on the Lock screen. Allow all types, some, or none. It’s up to you.

Stay on top of reminders due today

• The new Today category shows only reminders due today. You’ll also be reminded of reminders due today at the top of the main screen in the Reminder app.

Show and hide completed reminders

• You can show or hide the completed reminders in any category. Show to see what you’ve already done, or hide to stay focused on things you still need to finish.

Choose the right view for your reminders

• Choose the simple view to show more reminders on the screen at once or an expanded view that includes details such as the due date and repeating conditions.

Set a language for each app

• Want to use some apps in one language and other apps in another? You can now choose which language will be used for each app in Settings.

Edit your Lock screen wallpaper collection

• After selecting a group of images to use for your Lock screen wallpaper, you can easily add or remove images later.

Customize the spacebar row in Samsung Keyboard

• You can choose which function keys and punctuation marks to show in the bottom row of the keyboard next to the spacebar.

Improved sound and vibration settings

• Menus have been reorganized to make it easier to find the sound and vibration options you need. Set your ringtone and change the volume and vibration intensity, all in the same place.

Extract text from any image or screen

• Extract text using Samsung Keyboard, Internet, Gallery, or whenever you take a screenshot. Paste the result into a message, email, or document instead of typing.

Get suggestions based on text in images

• When text appears in an image in Gallery, Camera, or other apps, actions will be recommended based on the text. For example, if you take a picture of a sign with a phone number or web address on it, you can tap to call the number or visit the site.

Do more with your connected devices

• The Connected devices menu has been added to Settings, making it quicker and easier to access features that work with other devices, like Quick Share, Smart View, and Samsung DeX.

Switch your view with a gesture

• Switch from full screen to split screen view by swiping inward with two fingers from the left side, right side, or bottom of the screen. Switch from full screen to pop-up view by swiping inward with one finger from either corner at the top of the screen. Gestures can be turned on or off in Settings.

Quickly open apps in split screen

• Just drag an app from the Recents screen to the side of the screen where you want to open it.

Use several timers at once

• You can now start a new timer in the Clock app even if another timer is still running.

More control over calendar event invitees

• When you add an event to your Google calendar, you can choose whether invitees are allowed to see who else is invited to the event and also choose whether they can invite other people.

Enhanced taskbar in Samsung DeX

• A search button has been added to make it easier to find apps you want to use, and you can right-click certain apps to quickly access tasks within the app. You can also customize which buttons and apps you want to appear on your taskbar.

New notification indicator in DeX

• A red dot will appear on the notification button in your taskbar if any new notifications have been received since the last time you opened the notification panel.

Mini calendar in DeX

• Clicking the date in your taskbar now opens a mini calendar, allowing you to quickly check upcoming events without opening the full Calendar app.

Better support for physical keyboards

• Samsung Keyboard features such as emoji input and text correction are now available when you’re using a physical keyboard.

More powerful search in My Files

• Choose whether to search all files or only files in the current folder. You can also choose between searching only file names or searching information inside of files, such as text in documents or location information in images. When your search is complete, you can sort the results by name, date, size, or file type.

Redesigned Digital Wellbeing

• The Digital Wellbeing app has been redesigned to make it easier to access the features you need, like screen time reports and app timers. Bedtime mode and Focus modes have been moved to Bixby Routines.

Bedtime mode moved to Bixby Routines

• You can now manage Bedtime mode in Bixby Routines instead of Clock. Bixby Routines lets you automate more actions when it’s time for bed, like turning on Do not disturb or changing other settings on your phone.

Choose modes based on your activity

• Choose a mode based on what you’re doing, such as exercising, studying, or working, then choose what you want your phone to do in each situation. For example, turn on Do not disturb when you’re studying or play music when you’re exercising.

Easier to discover preset routines

• A simplified layout makes it easier to find routines that are useful for you in Bixby Routines.

Check running routines quickly

• Routines that are currently running are now shown at the top of the Bixby Routines screen so you can understand what’s happening and make changes if necessary.

More actions and conditions for your routines

• Automatically start routines when you use Airplane mode. Routines can now turn on the Assistant menu and adjust the left/right sound balance.

New emojis available for emoii pairs

• In Samsung Keyboard, more than 80 additional emojis are available for creating an emoji pair. You can now combine emojis based on animals, food, and other obiects in addition to facial expressions. Choose the perfect combination to get your feelings across.

New AR Emoii stickers

• New stickers are available for download so you can always find the right sticker to express your emotions.

More default stickers for your AR Emoii

• When you create a new AR Emoji, 15 stickers are created by default giving you even more ways to express yourself.

Transparent backgrounds for AR emoji stickers

• Create stickers with transparent backgrounds so they fit better in your photos and social media posts.

Create videos with 2 emojis together

• Use 2 different emojis to create fun videos you can share with friends, set as a call background, or show on your Lock screen. Various dances and poses are available as templates.

Use any picture as your emoji background

• In Scene and Mask modes, you can choose any picture from Gallery to use as the background for your emoji.

Add stickers to your Google calendar

• When you add an event to your Google calendar, you can now add stickers that make it easy to recognize the event at a glance. After adding a sticker to an event, the sticker will be visible in both calendar and agenda views.

Create stickers from any picture

• Create reusable stickers from any picture in your gallery. Use the lasso tool to select the content of your sticker, then add decorations or outlines.

New stickers in Photo Editor

• 60 new preloaded emoji stickers are available for decorating your pictures.

More ways to edit GIFs

• You can trim and transform animated GIFs to make them the right size or shape. You can also use the same editing features that are available for still images to decorate your GIF however you like.

Rearrange expression buttons in Samsung Keyboard

• Touch and hold the emoji, sticker, and other buttons to rearrange them.

Enter kaomoji directly from Samsung Keyboard

• Spice up your chats and texts with preset Japanese-style facial expressions created using keyboard symbols. (*^.^*)

Get help with Pro mode

• A help icon will appear in Pro and Pro video modes. Tap the icon to get tips and guidance for using the various lenses, options, and controls.

Histogram in Pro mode

• Use the histogram to check the brightness of each tone to help you get the perfect exposure.

Zoom more easily with one hand

• The zoom bar has been condensed so you can Zoom in or out farther with a single swipe.

Easily go back to Photo mode

• When you use camera modes located in the More menu, a Back button is now available to take you back to Photo mode at any time.

Add watermarks to your pictures

• Automatically add a watermark in the corner of each picture containing the date and time a picture was taken, or your phone’s model name, or other custom information.

Telephoto lens is now supported in Food mode

• Take better close-up shots of food using the telephoto lens.

All-new look for Stories

• Stories that are automatically created in your Gallery have been revamped with an immersive slideshow view. Just tap or swipe to move between pictures and videos in your story.

Choose filters more easily

• The filter selection menu has been streamlined in Camera, Photo Editor, and Video Editor. All filters are available in one list, making it easier to find the perfect filter for your picture or video.

Faster than ever

• On-device mode saves Bixby commands on your phone so they work faster and don’t require a data connection.

Answer calls, alarms, and timers without “Hi, Bixby”

• When you’ve got an incoming call or an alarm or timer rings, you can get help from Bixby without saying “”Hi Bixby.’ Just say “Answer the phone” or ‘Turn off the alarm.

Check your phone’s security status at a glance

• The new Security dashboard in Settings shows whether your phone has any security issues and helps you fix them quickly.

Get help in an emergency

• Quickly press the Side key 5 times to call emergency services even if your phone’s in your pocket or you aren’t able to talk.

Integrated emergency contact list

• Create an emergency contact list that includes the people you want to contact in case of an emergency. The same contact list can be used for emergency features on both your watch and your phone.

Get a warning before you share personal information

• The share panel will let you know when you attempt to share photos that contain sensitive information, such as credit cards, ID cards, or passports, so you can reconsider whether you really want to share them.

Security and privacy information for websites

• An icon will appear in the address bar in Samsung Internet to show a site’s security status. Tap the icon to learn which information the website collects and tracks.

More accessibility options in the quick panel

• High contrast font, Color inversion, Color adjustment, and Color filters can be added to the quick panel for easier access.

Magnifier is easier to access

• Turn on the Magnifier shortcut in Accessibility settings to get quick access to the Magnifier feature. Magnifier uses your phone’s camera to enlarge items in the real world so you can take a closer look or make them easier to read.

More spoken assistance

• Choose from various types of voice feedback to get help using your phone even if you can’t see the screen clearly. You can make your phone read out keyboard input so you can be sure you typed the correct letter, use Bixby Vision to recognize nearby objects and tell you what they are, and turn on descriptions that explain what’s happening in a video (only for supported videos).

Improved support for braille displays

• TalkBack now provides native support for braille displays without the need to install extra apps.
• Your braille display will work with most features of your phone, including the initial setup process.
• English, Spanish, Arabic, and Polish are supported.

Easily edit your Accessibility button

• Tap and hold the Accessibility button to quickly change the features you can access using the button.

New actions available for Corner actions

• When you move your mouse to one of the corners of the screen, you can now click and hold, drag, drag and drop, go to the top of the screen, or go to the bottom.

New layout for notifications

• App icons are larger, making it easier to see which app sent the notification. Text alignment has also been improved to make notifications easier to read.

Screen calls before you answer

• Let calls be answered automatically to ask the reason for the call. If you can’t or don’t want to talk, you can tap or type a response that will be read aloud to the caller.

Drag and drop bookmarks between folders

• Keep your Samsung Internet bookmarks organized by dragging and dropping them between folders.
• Play sound on your PC with Link to Windows When using phone apps on your PC, you can choose whether to play sound from the app on your phone or on your PC using a button in the app title bar.

Check your battery’s health

• Battery health information has been added in Device care to help you check the status of your battery. If your battery’s health is declining, we’ll let you know so you can consider replacing it.

More options for RAM Plus

• RAM Plus can now be turned off completely in Device care if you don’t need it or don’t want it to use any storage space.

Show app names in the Apps edge panel

• Turn on Show app names to make app names appear below the app icons.

Galaxy Themes

• Some downloaded themes may not be compatible with Android 13. If your theme isn’t compatible, your phone’s default theme will be used after upgrading.

You can learn more over on Samsung’s website.

These Galaxy Devices Will Get Android 13

Samsung used to keep Galaxy phones and tablets updated with major Android software updates for two years. Fortunately, the company has come to its senses and changed that policy.

Again, the company says it’s now committed to providing four years of major software upgrades to select devices going forward. This is obviously a huge development as it means Galaxy owners can hold onto their devices for a lot longer.

Here are the Galaxy devices that are set to get four years of new Android/One UI releases and five years of security updates:

• Galaxy S Series: Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy S21 FE and newer S series devices.
• Galaxy Z Series: Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Flip 3 and newer Z series devices.
• Galaxy A Series: upcoming select A series devices.
• Galaxy Tablets: Galaxy Tab S8, Galaxy Tab S8+, Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and newer Tab S series devices.

If you see your device on this list, you’re definitely getting an upgrade to Android 13 and One UI 5. If you don’t, there’s no need to fret right now unless you own a really old phone or tablet.

Newer models like the Galaxy S10 Lite and Galaxy Note 10 Lite should get upgraded to Android 13, but we Samsung will likely keep the rest of the Galaxy S10 series and Galaxy Note 10 series on Android 12.

If your Galaxy phone or tablet has already received three major Android software upgrades, your device is at risk of missing Android 13 and One UI 5.

Samsung could obviously surprise owners of older models, but as of right now we’d temper those expectations.

Samsung Galaxy Android 13 Release Date

The company has pushed Android 13 and One UI 5 to a long list of devices. The software has also hit regions all around the world.

Android 13 and One UI 5 are also moving out to the following devices: Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20+, Galaxy S20 Ultra, Galaxy S20 FE, Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy S10 Lite, Galaxy Note 10 Lite, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Flip 3, Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy Z Flip, Galaxy A73 5G, Galaxy A71 5G, Galaxy A71, Galaxy A53 5G, Galaxy A52s 5G, Galaxy A52, Galaxy A51 5G, Galaxy A51, Galaxy A42 5G, Galaxy A33 5G, Galaxy A32 5G, Galaxy A32, Galaxy A23, Galaxy A22 5G, Galaxy A22, Galaxy A13 5G, Galaxy A13, Galaxy A12 Nacho, Galaxy A04, Galaxy A03s, Galaxy A03, Galaxy F62, Galaxy F42 5G, Galaxy F23, Galaxy F13, Galaxy F12, Galaxy M62, Galaxy M53 5G, Galaxy M52 5G, Galaxy M52, Galaxy M42 5G, Galaxy M33 5G, Galaxy M32 5G, Galaxy M32, Galaxy M23 5G, Galaxy M22, Galaxy M13, Galaxy Quantum 2, Galaxy Tab S8, Galaxy Tab S8+, Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S7, Galaxy Tab S7+, Galaxy Tab S7 FE, Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, Galaxy Tab A8, Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, Galaxy Tab Active 3, Galaxy XCover 6 Pro, Galaxy Xcover 5, and Galaxy Xcover Pro.

One UI 5.1 Update

Samsung’s also rolling out its One UI 5.1 update to select devices. The software brings a new batch of features and enhancements to select devices.

One UI 5.1 is rolling out to the following devices right now:

• Galaxy S22
• Galaxy S22+
• Galaxy S22 Ultra
• Galaxy S21
• Galaxy S21+
• Galaxy S21 Ultra
• Galaxy S21 FE
• Galaxy S20
• Galaxy S20+
• Galaxy S20 Ultra
• Galaxy S20 FE 5G
• Galaxy S20 FE
• Galaxy Note 20
• Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
• Galaxy S10 Lite
• Galaxy Z Fold 4
• Galaxy Z Flip 4
• Galaxy Z Fold 3
• Galaxy Z Flip 3
• Galaxy Z Fold 2
• Galaxy Z Flip
• Galaxy A73
• Galaxy A71 5G
• Galaxy A71
• Galaxy A53 5G
• Galaxy A53
• Galaxy A52s 5G
• Galaxy A52 5G
• Galaxy A51 5G
• Galaxy A33 5G
• Galaxy A23
• Galaxy A22 5G
• Galaxy A14 5G
• Galaxy A04s
• Galaxy A Quantum
• Galaxy F62
• Galaxy F23 5G
• Galaxy F22
• Galaxy F12
• Galaxy M53 5G
• Galaxy M53
• Galaxy M42 5G
• Galaxy M33 5G
• Galaxy M32
• Galaxy M23 5G
• Galaxy M13 5G
• Galaxy M12
• Galaxy Tab S8
• Galaxy Tab S8+
• Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
• Galaxy Tab S7
• Galaxy Tab S7+
• Galaxy Tab S7 FE
• Galaxy Tab A8 (2022)
• Galaxy Tab A7 Lite

One UI 5.1.1 Update

Samsung’s reportedly working on a new One UI 5.1.1 update and the software should roll out alongside the Galaxy Fold 5, Galaxy Flip 5, and Galaxy Tab S9 later this year. A recent update to the Nice Catch app seems to confirm the software.

Samsung’s planning an Unpacked event for late July, currently rumored for July 26th, and that’s when we should hear more about One UI 5.1.1’s release.

Samsung Galaxy Android 14 Update

Google’s officially announced Android 14 and pushed a beta to select Pixel models. The software will likely stay in beta testing until August.

Samsung Galaxy owners will likely have to wait awhile for access to Android 14 and One UI 6. Last year, the company pushed its first Android 13/One UI 5 beta in early August, but rumors point to a release in July this time around. Specifically, it looks like the company is targeting the third week of the month.

For more about the Samsung Galaxy Android 14 release, check out our walkthrough. It will take you through everything you need to know right now.

Wait for Design Changes

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Last year, Apple introduced a brand new pill-shaped notch the company calls Dynamic Island. Unfortunately, this change is only available on the company's high-end iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max models. That will likely change this year. Analyst Ross Young believes Apple could bring Dynamic Island to the lower-end iPhone 15 models. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman does as well. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says the iPhone 15's proximity sensor will be integrated into Dynamic Island. The proximity sensor on the iPhone 14 Pro models is under the display outside of Dynamic Island. This could lead to Face ID improvements. This might give some of you considering Apple's iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Plus a reason to hold out and wait for the new models. On the flip side, Young doesn't think the standard iPhone 15 models will get 120Hz/LTPO like the iPhone 15 Pro models. This haas been backed up by another source who says the iPhone 15/iPhone 15 Plus won't get ProMotion and Always-On display capabilities.  We've heard the the iPhone 15 Max's design will be made out of titanium as opposed to stainless steel. Leaker ShrimpApplePro claims early information suggests Apple is indeed working on a titanium design. The leaker says the design may also incorporate curved rear edges and a glass back. In a newer tweet, the leaker says the iPhone 15 Pro models will "have thinner bezels" with curved edges. The display is reportedly still flat, however. ShrimpApplePro says additional sources now agree with the information and that the bezels on the iPhone 15 Pro models will indeed be thinner. In a tweet, well-known leaker Ice Universe says the iPhone 15 Pro Max will break the record for thinnest bezels on a smartphone. The record is currently held by the Xiaomi 13. Front glass panels for the iPhone 15 series have apparently leaked and they depict thinner bezels on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.  Analyst Jeff Pu from Haitong International Securities also believes the company is working to deliver a new titanium design. So does Gurman. We've seen an iPhone 15 Pro dummy unit leak on the Chinese version of TikTok and it gives us a glimpse at what the device might look like. CAD images of the iPhone 15 Pro from 9to5Mac also show us what the final product could look like.  We've also heard the iPhone 15 Pro might have a multi-use action button instead of a mute button. This button would probably work like it does on the Apple Watch Ultra in that it will allow users to map it to different functions. You can see it in AppleInsider's video above.

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Samsung Galaxy Android 13 Update Info (2023) is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

Samsung’s reportedly working on a new Galaxy Tab S9 tablet and there are some things prospective buyers should do ahead of the device’s release date.

If you’re hunting for a new tablet, and more specifically an Android tablet, you might want to sit back and wait for Samsung’s rumored Galaxy Tab S9 series.

Samsung’s reportedly planning a trio of new tablets, dubbed Galaxy Tab S9, Galaxy Tab S9+ and Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, to replace the company’s Galaxy Tab S8 series.

We don’t have a concrete date just yet, but the Galaxy Tab S9 release date should land later this year.

Samsung’s planning to host an Unpacked event in Seoul in July. Rumors suggest Samsung’s targeting July 26th, but it hasn’t confirmed an exact date.

The Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5 will debut at the event, but there’s a good chance the Galaxy Tab S9 launches on, or around this date, as well.

We’ve seen official Galaxy Tab S9 press renders from Samsung leak which is a sign that the devices are getting closer to an official launch.

If you’re thinking about waiting for the Galaxy Tab S9, Galaxy Tab S9+, or Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, here are some tips that should come in handy as we push toward launch.

Track Galaxy Tab S9 Rumors

If you’re even the slightest bit interested in buying a new Galaxy Tab, you’ll want to keep tabs on Galaxy Tab S9 rumors as we cruise through the spring.

Reports and rumors will inevitably outline every piece of important information about Samsung’s new tablets including their specs and release date. These details will start to firm up as development continues and as we get closer to launch.

Leaks from trustworthy sources will help you maintain appropriate expectations and help you decide if the Galaxy Tab S9 series is worth waiting for.

For the latest news about the Galaxy Tab S9, check out our roundup.

Get Familiar with Android & One UI

If you’re using an old Galaxy Tab model or a device that falls outside of Samsung’s ecosystem, and you plan to upgrade to the next Galaxy Tab, make sure you get comfortable with the current version of Android and Samsung’s One UI software. It’s not for everyone.

Right now, the current version of Android is Android 13. And the most up-to-date version of Samsung’s One UI software is One UI 5.1. If you’re already running this software on your tablet you can safely skip this step. If you’re currently using older software, use this time to get a feel for the newer firmware.

The Galaxy Tab S9 series probably won’t run Android 14 and One UI 6 out of the box, but you can expect them to be near the front of the line when the company starts pushing the software later this year.

Android 14 is currently in beta testing and Samsung will almost certainly launch its own Android 14/One UI 6 beta. This will give you a chance to use and get familiar with the software before its officially released.

Going hands-on with this software will be important, especially if you’ll be moving from an iPad or Windows device to a Galaxy Tab.

Figure Out How Much Storage You Need

Use the this time to figure out how much storage you might need on a Galaxy Tab S9. Some of you might be fine with the least amount of storage, but others might need more. Picking the correct storage capacity could help you save money and avoid buyers remorse.

We haven’t seen any credible information about Galaxy Tab S9 storage just yet, but we could see Samsung keep it in line with the Galaxy Tab S8. If that happens, the Galaxy Tab S9 storage options would look like this:

• Galaxy Tab S9: 128GB/256GB
• Galaxy Tab S9+: 128GB/256GB
• Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: 128GB/256GB/512GB

It’s unclear how much the Galaxy Tab S9 will cost, but the Galaxy Tab S8 series starts at $699 without a deal. It’s possible we see Samsung deviate from this pricing, but we don’t expect the price to make a huge jump.

Look at Other Galaxy Tab Models

Before you decide to wait for the Galaxy Tab S9 release date, make sure you take a look at Samsung’s other Galaxy Tab models. You might find a device you really like.

The Galaxy Tab S8, Galaxy Tab S8+, and Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra are the obvious in-house alternatives. They’re excellent tablets and should be on your shopping list.

You may also want to consider the Galaxy Tab S7 series, the Galaxy Tab A 8.4, and the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite. The latter two are budget models.

We’ve seen a number of deals drop the price of Samsung’s current Galaxy Tab lineup and we’ll see plenty more as we push deeper into the year.

Research Galaxy Tab Alternatives

We also recommend digging into Galaxy Tab alternatives that fall outside of Samsung’s ecosystem. Here are a few of the best alternatives on the market right now:

• iPad Pro
• iPad Air
• Lenovo Yoga Tab 13
• Lenovo Tab P11 Pro
• Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus

Go hands-on with these devices sometime this year.

Make a Plan for Your Current Tablet

Make sure you have a plan for your current tablet.

If you plan on selling your current device to help offset the cost of a new Galaxy Tab, you’ll want to track prices at popular resellers.

You’ll also want to keep your current tablet in good condition because that’s how you’ll get the most money back from some resellers when Galaxy Tab S9 trade-in offers arrive.

You also might know of a friend or relative who could benefit from your current tablet. Ask around and see if anyone might need a hand-me-down after you upgrade.

Research Carriers

Like the Galaxy Tab S8 series, we expect the Galaxy Tab S9 series to offer 5G connectivity. Cellular data could be useful if you plan to get work done on your new Galaxy Tab in places where there isn’t a strong Wi-Fi signal or areas where there isn’t Wi-Fi at all.

If you’re unhappy with your current provider’s coverage and/or plan, use this time to dig into competitors and see if you can find a better fit.

Galaxy Tab S9 Release Date: Tips & Tricks is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series is reportedly in development and those of you in the hunt for a new tablet might want to think about waiting for the company’s new flagships.

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S8, Galaxy Tab S8+, and Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra are all fantastic devices and certainly worthy of your attention, but it looks like they’ll get replaced by newer, and perhaps better, models later this year.

Galaxy Tab S9 rumors have started swirling in recent weeks and it looks like Samsung’s cooking up a trio of new devices for launch.

Specifically, it looks like Samsung will launch three new Galaxy Tab models dubbed Galaxy Tab S9, Galaxy Tab S9+, and Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. Rumors hint at some intriguing upgrades to the design, processor, and more.

These Galaxy Tab S9 rumors put those of you in the hunt for a new tablet in a tough position. There are some great reasons to buy a brand new tablet right now, but there are also some great reasons to hang around and wait for Samsung’s new Galaxy Tab models.

In this guide we’ll take you through the best reasons to consider waiting for the rumored Galaxy Tab S9 and the best reasons to go with another device.

Wait for Performance Improvements

Every year Samsung makes improvements to the Galaxy Tab’s hardware and you can expect the Galaxy Tab S9 series to offer performance upgrades.

While nothing is confirmed, we’ve heard the Galaxy Tab S9 will pack a bigger battery than its predecessors. This change has been discovered in online filings. A bigger battery should lead to better battery life which is crucial for the Galaxy Tab series because it’s a workhorse.

In addition to the larger battery, the Galaxy Tab S9 models should come equipped with a newer processor, perhaps the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 from Qualcomm. This is the same processor inside the company’s Galaxy S23 flagship smartphones.

That being said, Galaxy Tab S9 benchmarks suggest the new tablets will be even faster than their smartphone counterparts despite sharing the same processor.

Leaker Ice Universe believes this will indeed be the case. He also says the high-end Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra will include 16GB of RAM.

A newer processor should lead to improvements in key areas like battery life, multitasking, gaming performance, and faster boot times.

We’ve also heard Samsung plans to install an AMOLED display on the base version of the Galaxy Tab S9. The Galaxy Tab S7 and Galaxy Tab S8 base models both used LCD displays.

A switch to AMOLED could lead to performance improvements in key areas like battery life and would also allow Samsung to bring features like Always-on Display to the base Galaxy Tab S9.

Wait for an Improved Design

While we probably won’t see a massive overhaul to the Galaxy Tab’s design, purported Galaxy Tab S9+ renders look pretty similar to the Galaxy Tab S8+, we have heard about one key change Samsung might make on the Galaxy Tab S9.

According to SamMobile, the Galaxy Tab S9 will offer IP67 water resistance. If this pans out, the Galaxy Tab S9 series would be Samsung’s first tablets to have the certification.

This IP67 rating would mean the device would offer better protection against water and dust. This would make the Galaxy Tab S9 series appealing to those who like to bring their tablet to the beach, pool, or other rugged environments.

If that’s you, you might want to hang back and wait for the Galaxy Tab S9.

Wait for a Better S Pen

The Galaxy Tab S9’s S Pen received multiple certifications and it looks like the stylus features Bluetooth 5.1 LE. Bluetooth 5.1 LE is faster and it’s also more energy efficient.

Wait for the Best Galaxy Tab Software

If you plan on keeping your next tablet for awhile, it might be a good idea to wait for the Galaxy Tab S9.

While you might be tempted to go with an older and/or cheaper model, these devices will see their software support end sooner than the Galaxy Tab S9’s.

Samsung keeps its flagships upgraded with major software updates for several years. The company tends to extend bug fixes and security patches for a bit longer than that, but software support will eventually stop and you’ll be on your own.

The company also tends to keep some software features exclusive to newer devices due to hardware limitations. You can expect the Galaxy Tab S9 series to come with the company’s most robust version of Android and One UI.

Samsung is reportedly working on a new One UI 5.1.1 update and there’s a good chance it debuts alongside the Galaxy Tab S9 later this year.

The Galaxy Tab S9 series will also be among the first devices to get Samsung’s Android 14/One UI 6 update.

Wait for a New Galaxy Tab Color

Interested in a brand new Galaxy Tab color? Then you might want to wait for the Galaxy Tab S9.

According to leaker Roland Quandt, the Galaxy Tab S9 will come in beige which, if true, would be a first for the Galaxy Tab series. We haven’t seen any renders yet, but you can bet those will leak out before Samsung’s announcement.

Don’t Wait If You Can’t Wait Until July

If you’re in a rush to buy a new tablet, you’ll have to look elsewhere.

Samsung will host an Unpacked event in Seoul sometime in late July. Rumors suggest it’s targeting July 26th, but the company hasn’t confirmed a date yet.

The event will likely center around the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Galaxy Z Fold 5, but there’s a really good chance the Galaxy Tab S9 launches on, or around this date, as well.

We’ve seen official Galaxy Tab S9 press renders from Samsung leak. This is a pretty good indication the launch will happen next month.

If you can’t wait until late July, you’ll want to move on. For more about the Galaxy Tab S9 release date, check out our walkthrough.

Don’t Wait If You Need a Cheap Tablet

If you don’t want to spend a ton of money on your next tablet you’ll probably want to buy another device.

While it would be great to see the Galaxy Tab S9 price drop, we don’t expect that to happen. In fact, if Samsung decides to implement an OLED display, something we’ve heard about, we could see the price jump up.

When they first arrived, the Galaxy Tab S8 started at $699, the Galaxy Tab S8+ was $899.99, and the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra at a whopping $1099.99. You can expect the Galaxy Tab S9 to be priced similarly at launch.

If that’s too much for your bank account, you’ll want to start looking at cheaper models.

Don’t Wait If You Find a Tablet You Like

Don’t let Galaxy Tab S9 rumors hold you back. If you find a tablet you really like, don’t be afraid to make a move.

Before you commit to waiting for the Galaxy Tab S9, make sure you go hands-on with devices you can actually buy right now. There a ton of excellent devices on the market right now. A few of the best Galaxy Tab S9 alternatives include:

• Galaxy Tab S8 series
• Galaxy Tab S7 series
• Galaxy Tab A 8.4
• iPad Pro
• iPad Air
• Lenovo Yoga Tab 13
• Lenovo Tab P11 Pro
• Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus

Dig through as many tablets as possible and you may wind up walking out of a store with a new device long before the Galaxy Tab S9 series arrives on shelves.

5 Reasons to Wait for the Galaxy Tab S9 & 3 Reasons Not To is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

Google’s confirmed the next version of Android which means we’re starting to get questions about the Samsung Galaxy Android 14 update. We’ll answer as many as we can in this guide.

Samsung’s still focused on getting Android 13 and One UI 5.x updates out to Galaxy phones and tablets, but that will change later this year when it pushes its Android 14 and One UI 6 update to customers around the world.

The company is far more communicative about Android software these days, but it will likely take months for Samsung to outline specific plans for Android 14.

The Samsung Galaxy Android 14 update will roll out later this year.

Samsung’s quiet right now, but we can put together an early Samsung Galaxy Android 14 roadmap using confirmed information, rumors and traditions.

This roadmap will help you set proper expectations as we push toward the inevitable release of Samsung’s Android 14 update with One UI 6 for Galaxy smartphones and tablets.

In this guide we’ll take you through what you should know about Android 14 if you currently own, or if you’re planning to buy a Galaxy S23, Galaxy S22, Galaxy S21, Galaxy Tab S8 or another Samsung device.

We’ll also walk you through what we know about Android 14’s features, the Samsung Android 14 release date, the Android 14 beta, and everything else Samsung owners need to know as we push through 2023.

Samsung Galaxy June Update

Samsung rolling its June update out to Galaxy devices.

The software is moving out to Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20+, Galaxy S20 Ultra, Galaxy S20 FE, Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy Note 10 Lite, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 3, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy Z Flip, Galaxy A73, Galaxy A71 5G, Galaxy A53, Galaxy A52s, Galaxy A52 5G, Galaxy A52, Galaxy A51 5G, Galaxy A51, Galaxy A42 5G, Galaxy A23, Galaxy A13, Galaxy A12, Galaxy A12 Nacho, Galaxy A04s, Galaxy F62, Galaxy M12, and Galaxy Tab Active 3 models in select regions.

You can learn more about the contents of Samsung’s June update and its other monthly updates over on the company’s security website.

Here’s the breakdown of Samsung’s current Android security update coverage:

Current Models for Monthly Security Updates

• Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy Z Fold 2 5G, Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 5G, Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G, Galaxy Z Flip 4, W23, W23 flip
• Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20 5G, Galaxy S20+, Galaxy S20+ 5G, Galaxy S20 Ultra, Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G, Galaxy S20 FE, Galaxy S20 FE 5G, Galaxy S21 5G, Galaxy S21+ 5G, Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G, Galaxy S21 FE 5G, Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra
• Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20 5G, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G
• Enterprise Models: Galaxy A52, Galaxy A52 5G, Galaxy A52s 5G, Galaxy A53 5G, Galaxy A54 5G, Galaxy Xcover5, Galaxy Xcover6 Pro

Current Models for Quarterly Security Updates

• Galaxy Fold, Galaxy Fold 5G, Galaxy Z Flip, W22 5G
• Galaxy S10 Lite
• Galaxy Note 10, Galaxy Note 10 5G, Galaxy Note 10+, Galaxy Note 10+ 5G, Galaxy Note 10 Lite
• Galaxy A22, Galaxy A22e 5G, Galaxy A22 5G, Galaxy A32, Galaxy A32 5G
• Galaxy A03, Galaxy A03s, Galaxy A03 core, Galaxy A13, Galaxy A13 5G, Galaxy A23, Galaxy A23 5G, Galaxy A33 5G, Galaxy A73 5G
• Galaxy A04, Galaxy A04s, Galaxy A04e, Galaxy A14, Galaxy A14 5G, Galaxy A24, Galaxy A34 5G
• Galaxy M21 2021, Galaxy M22, Galaxy M32, Galaxy M32 5G, Galaxy M52 5G, Galaxy M13, Galaxy M23 5G, Galaxy M33 5G, Galaxy M53 5G, Galaxy M04, Galaxy M14 5G, Galaxy M54 5G
• Galaxy F22, Galaxy F42 5G, Galaxy F52 5G, Galaxy F13, Galaxy F04, Galaxy F14 5G
• Galaxy Tab A8, Galaxy Tab Active Pro, Galaxy Tab Active 3, Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro
• Galaxy Tab S6 Lite, Galaxy Tab S7, Galaxy Tab S7 FE, Galaxy Tab S8, Galaxy Tab S8+, Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
• Enterprise Models: Galaxy XCover4s, Galaxy Xcover FieldPro, Galaxy Xcover Pro

Current Models for Biannual Security Updates

• Galaxy A10e, Galaxy A10s, Galaxy A20s, Galaxy A30s, Galaxy A50s, Galaxy A70s, Galaxy A80, Galaxy A90 5G
• Galaxy A01, Galaxy A11, Galaxy A21, Galaxy A21s, Galaxy A31, Galaxy A41, Galaxy A51, Galaxy A51 5G, Galaxy A71, Galaxy A71 5G
• Galaxy A02, Galaxy A02s, Galaxy A12, Galaxy A42 5G, Galaxy A72, Galaxy A82 5G
• Galaxy M10s, Galaxy M30s, Galaxy M40, Galaxy M01, Galaxy M11, Galaxy M21, Galaxy M31, Galaxy M31s, Galaxy M51
• Galaxy M12, Galaxy M42 5G, Galaxy M62
• Galaxy F12, Galaxy F62
• Galaxy Tab A 8 (2019), Galaxy Tab A 8.4 (2020), Galaxy Tab A7, Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
• Galaxy Tab S6, Galaxy Tab S6 5G, Galaxy Tab S7+
• W20 5G, W21 5G

Back in 2022, Samsung confirmed plans to keep select Galaxy phones and tablets updated with major Android releases for four years and security patches for up to five years.

Some Galaxy devices won’t get upgraded to Android 14, but they’ll still get regular, and in some cases irregular, security updates in 2023 and beyond.

One UI 5.1.1 Update

Samsung’s reportedly working on a new One UI 5.1.1 update and the software should roll out alongside the Galaxy Fold 5, Galaxy Flip 5, and Galaxy Tab S9 this summer. A recent update to the Nice Catch app seems to confirm the software’s existence.

The company’s hosting an Unpacked event in late July and that’s when we should hear more about Samsung’s plans for One UI 5.1.1.

Samsung Galaxy Android 14: What’s New

Samsung’s version of Android 14 will look different than the version Google releases for Pixel devices because it will utilize the company’s One UI.

We haven’t seen any definitive information yet, but you can expect Samsung to debut One UI 6 alongside Android 14 later this year.

Samsung’s One UI upgrades typically deliver design changes, enhancements for current features, and brand new features for newer, and older, Galaxy models. Older phones and tablets sometimes miss out on newer features so if you want the best feature set, you may need to upgrade your phone or tablet.

We don’t know anything about Samsung’s version of Android 14 yet. That being said, we do know quite a bit about Google’s plans for Android 14 and you can expect many of these features to land on board Samsung’s version of Android 14.

Google will likely add, and perhaps subtract, features during the beta process so the final version of Android 14 could look a bit different than the version developers are using right now.

These Galaxy Devices Will Get Android 14

Samsung used to keep Galaxy phones and tablets updated with major Android software updates for two years. But again, the company has changed that policy to four years. This was, and still is, a big development because it means Galaxy owners can hold onto their devices for a lot longer.

Here are the Galaxy phones and tablets that are set to get four years of new Android/One UI releases and five years of security updates:

• Galaxy S Series: Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy S21 FE and upcoming S series devices.
• Galaxy Z Series: Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Flip 3 and upcoming Z series devices.
• Galaxy Tablets: Galaxy Tab S8, Galaxy Tab S8+, Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and upcoming Tab S series devices.

If you see your device on this list, it will definitely move to Android 14 and One UI 6. Newer Galaxy A Series, Galaxy M Series, and XCover models will also move up to Android 14.

If you don’t see your device on this, your device could miss out on Android 14 and One UI 6. Unless Samsung surprises everyone, popular models like the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note 20 may stay put, at least officially, on Android 13 and One UI 5.

Here’s a list of devices that probably won’t get upgraded to Android 14 and One UI 6:

• Galaxy S20
• Galaxy S20+
• Galaxy S20 Ultra
• Galaxy S20 FE
• Galaxy Note 10 Lite
• Galaxy Note 20
• Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
• Galaxy S10 Lite
• Galaxy Z Fold 2
• Galaxy Z Flip
• Galaxy A71
• Galaxy A51
• Galaxy A32
• Galaxy A22
• Galaxy Tab A8
• Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
• Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
• Galaxy Tab S7
• Galaxy Tab S7+

This is subject to change, but if you own of of these devices, it will probably stay put (officially, at least) on Android 13 and One UI 5.

Samsung Galaxy Android 14 Beta

Google’s currently hosting an Android 14 beta for Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 6a, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6, Pixel 5a 5G, Pixel 5, and Pixel 4a (5G) models. Samsung will run its own Android 14 beta program outside of Google’s.

Samsung used to keep its Galaxy Beta program limited to flagship models, but in recent years the company has brought mid-range phones into the fold as well.

So while we don’t know exactly how the Galaxy Android 14 beta process will work, you can expect the Galaxy S23 series and several other devices to take part.

The company is currently testing Android 14/One UI 6 on the Galaxy S23 series. It’s also testing the software on the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4.

Samsung’s Android betas are usually limited to select regions. Big markets like the United States are always on the list, but smaller markets are typically left out.

Last year, Samsung launched its first Android 13 beta, for the Galaxy S22 series, in August. Rumors suggest we could see it arrive a bit earlier this year.

A tipster claims Samsung is planning to push its first Android 14/One UI 6 beta to the Galaxy S23 series in mid-July. They didn’t provide a specific date, but another source claims Samsung is planning to launch the beta during the third week of July.

Samsung Galaxy Android 14 Release Date

When will Samsung release its first stable Android 14 update? Here’s what we can tell you based on the company’s previous Android roll outs.

Google says the final version of Android 14 will drop for Pixel phones sometime after July. We suspect it will land for Pixel devices in August.

Samsung won’t beat Google to its own release which means the soonest we’ll see Samsung release Android 14 is sometime in the early fall.

The Samsung Galaxy Android 14 release date will land sometime this fall.

Samsung typically releases its major Android updates toward the end of the year. Last year, Android 13 and One UI 5 started moving out in October.

The same tipster who released information about Samsung’s plans for the beta says the company is indeed planning to release its first stable Android 14/One UI 6 update in October.

While a lot of Galaxy models will get upgraded to Android 14 and One UI 6 in the second half 2022, many others will have to wait until 2024 for their upgrade.

Samsung Galaxy Android 14 Update Info (2023) is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

Samsung Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra owners are complaining about a variety of issues including abnormal battery drain, UI lag, and more. In this guide we’ll take you through the current state of Galaxy S23 problems and provide some resources that could help you solve your current issue(s) or problems that emerge on your device down the road.

The Galaxy S23 series comes with Samsung’s latest hardware and software upgrades. And while they feature with the company’s latest bells and whistles, they aren’t immune to problems.

In the months since their release, we’ve seen complaints about Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 hardware and software problems increase.

The list of problems will continue to grow as more people buy the phones, users put more mileage on them, and as Samsung releases new software.

Below are the most common Galaxy S23 issues, potential fixes for problems, places to find feedback about the Galaxy S23 series’ current performance, and a look at what’s in Samsung’s Android/One UI pipeline for these phones.

We’ll continue to update this guide covering Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra problems as the year goes on so check back for the latest news.

Galaxy S23 Problems

Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra users have run into a variety of issues with their new phones. Fortunately, we haven’t heard about any widespread hardware or software issues yet, but that could change as we continue too push further away from their release.

Below is a list of the Galaxy S23 problems we’ve heard about thus far. Again, this list will likely grow as we push deeper into the year.

• System-wide lag.
• Jittery animations.
• Cellular data issues.
• Abnormal battery drain.
• Issues with display brightness.
• Wi-Fi issues.
• Bluetooth problems.
• Overheating issues.
• Issues scanning QR codes.
• Problems with face recognition.
• Autofill issues.
• Issues with Widgets.
• eSim issues.
• Android Auto problems.
• Various issues with Bixby.
• Problems with Notifications including them not going away.
• Keyboard problems.
• Charging issues.
• Problems with phone calls including the inability to hangup normally.
• Issues with the Galaxy S23 Ultra S Pen.

Galaxy S23 Software Reviews

If you own a Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, or Galaxy S23 Ultra, or if you’re thinking about buying one, keep an eye on feedback from other users as we push deeper into the year.

There are several places to find feedback about the Galaxy S23 series’ performance. We recommend taking a look at XDA-Developers, the Galaxy S23 Reddit, and the Android Reddit.

If you live in the United States you’ll also want to keep your eyes on the official AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile forums if you own a device on one of those networks.

You may also want to look around on social media sites like Twitter and YouTube for feedback about the Galaxy S23 series’ current performance.

We’ll also provide you with the latest information about Android updates for the Galaxy S23 so make sure you dig into information about the Galaxy S23’s newest software upgrades.

How to Prepare for Software Updates

Samsung and its carrier partners will continue to fix problems plaguing the phones, but new software updates often bring problems of their own.

The next time you pickup your Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, or Galaxy S23 Ultra you may be notified about a new software update. Software updates often introduce new issues so you’ll want to prepare your phone for the move to new firmware.

You can’t predict exactly how new software will impact your device’s performance and this is why you should spend time preparing your device for the move.

Here’s what we recommend doing before installing new Android software on your Galaxy S23, Galaxy 23+, or Galaxy S23 Ultra:

• Backup your data.
• Get familiar with the latest Android firmware’s changes.
• Have all of your login information handy.
• Dig into feedback about an update’s performance.
• Cleanup your phone’s storage.
• Check in with IT.
• Check app reviews and install updates.

Follow these steps and you should be able to avoid major issues with your Galaxy S23 model’s latest software.

How to Fix Galaxy S23 Problems

If you run into an issue on on your Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, or Galaxy S23 Ultra, you should be able to fix the problem on your own. If you can’t, here are some resources that could help.

Check out the XDA’s Galaxy S23 forums, your carrier support forum (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon), and the Galaxy S23 Reddit for potential fixes from fellow Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, or Galaxy S23 Ultra users.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for there, you might want to get in touch with Samsung or your service provider on social media sites like Twitter. Samsung’s also got a customer support line.

You’ll also want to upgrade your device to the latest Android firmware if an upgrade is available. Samsung’s software updates often have bug fixes on board.

The June Galaxy S23 update is substantial and it brings fixes for an autofocus problem and UI lag. If you’ve been dealing with these issues, or others, it might be in your best interest to download this software.

What’s Next

Samsung pushes monthly security patches to the Galaxy S23 series and these software updates could help to stabilize your phone’s performance. Software support for the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra will last for several years.

If your carrier offers an Android update schedule, keep an eye on it for details about upcoming software updates. Carriers like Rogers, and Fido in Canada and Vodafone in Australia keep their customers informed about upcoming Android software updates. If your carrier has a similar schedule available, you might want to bookmark it and keep an eye out for the latest details.

For more information about Android 13, One UI, and Samsung’s latest monthly updates, check out our Android 13 guide.

The Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra will get upgraded to Samsung’s version of Android 14 later this year. We don’t know much about the company’s version of the software just yet though it will deliver a new version of One UI dubbed One UI 6.

Reports indicate Samsung is prepping a Galaxy S23 Android 14 beta for release in July, followed by a stable release sometime in October.

For more about Samsung’s Android 14 and One UI 6 update, head on over to our walkthrough.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Problems: 5 Things You Need to Know is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

Samsung’s reportedly working on new Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra models and there are some steps potential buyers should take ahead of the Galaxy S24 release date.

We don’t have a firm release date yet, but if Samsung sticks to its usual protocol, the devices should land in early 2024, probably sometime in February. This timeframe has been backed by a report out of South Korea.

The Galaxy S24’s release date is a long way out, but some of you may want to hang back and wait for its arrival. If you think you might want to do that, here are some tips that will help you prepare for the release of Samsung’s next flagship Galaxy S smartphone.

Track Galaxy S24 Rumors

If you’re at all interested in the next Samsung Galaxy S model, you’ll want to keep your eyes on the Galaxy S24 rumor mill as we push through the year.

We’ll see a steady drip of Galaxy S24 rumors throughout the year. And in typical Samsung fashion, we expect leaks to outline virtually everything there is to know about these devices long before the company takes the stage to launch them.

While leaks ruin the company’s element of surprise, they will help you, the shopper, set proper expectations about the Galaxy S24’s specs and release date and help you decide if waiting is worth it.

For the latest about the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra, check out our roundup.

Get Familiar with Android & One UI

If you’re using an old Galaxy S device or an Android phone that wasn’t made by Samsung, and you plan to upgrade to a new Galaxy S, make sure you get comfortable with the current version of Android and Samsung’s One UI software.

The current version of Android is Android 13 and the most up-to-date version of Samsung’s One UI software is One UI 5. If you’re already running this software on your phone you can skip this step. If you’re currently using older software, use this time to get a feel for this firmware. It’s not for everyone.

Again, barring unforeseen changes, the Galaxy S24 release date should land in early 2024 which means the flagships will run Android 14 and One UI 6 out of the box.

Android 14 is currently in Google’s beta testing process. Samsung will launch its own Android 14/One UI 6 beta down the road and this will give you a chance to get familiar with the software before its officially released.

Going hands-on with this software will be important, especially if you’re planning to move to a new Galaxy S from another Android OEM or an iPhone.

For more about Samsung’s Android 14 update, check out our guide.

Decide How Much Storage You Need

You’ll want to use this time to decide how much storage you might need on your new device. Some of you will be fine with the least amount of storage, but others will likely need to upgrade. Picking the right storage capacity will help you save money.

We haven’t seen any Galaxy S24 storage rumors yet, but we don’t expect Samsung to change it up much next year. In other words, expect the Galaxy S24’s storage capacity to fall in line with the Galaxy S23’s. Here are the Galaxy S23 storage options for reference:

• Galaxy S23: 128GB or 256GB of storage.
• Galaxy S23+: 256GB or 512GB of storage.
• Galaxy S23 Ultra: 256GB, 512GB or 1TB of storage.

We don’t know how much the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra will cost, but if you think you’ll need one of the larger storage variants, you may want to start saving.

Look at Other Galaxy Phones

Before you decide to wait for the Galaxy S24 release date, make sure you shop around starting with Samsung’s other Galaxy options.

The Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra are the obvious in-house alternatives. These are Samsung’s current flagships and they are among the best smartphones you can buy right now.

Of course, you may also want to check out the Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 4, and Samsung’s vast catalog of budget devices.

We’ve seen Samsung, carriers, and retailers drop the price of all these devices and we’ll see plenty of deals throughout the year. Make sure you go hands-on with as many of these as you can before you make a decision to wait.

Research Galaxy S Alternatives

We also recommend digging into Galaxy S alternatives that fall outside of Samsung’s ecosystem. Here are a few of the best alternatives on the market right now:

• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• Google Pixel 7
• Google Pixel 7 Pro
• OnePlus 11

If you aren’t married to buying a Galaxy phone, be sure you dig into these devices.

Make a Plan for Your Current Phone

You may want to start making a plan for your current phone right now.

If you plan on selling your current device to help offset the cost of your new smartphone, you’ll want to track prices at popular resellers.

You’ll also want to keep your current phone in good condition because that’s how you’ll get the most money back from some resellers when trade-in offers arrive at launch.

On the other hand, you might know of a friend or relative who could benefit from your current device. Ask around and see if anyone might need a hand-me-down after you upgrade.

Research Carriers

Like the Galaxy S23 series, we expect the Galaxy S24 series to come with 5G connectivity. If your next phone will be your first 5G device, shop around and see which network works best in your area.

If you’re unhappy with your current provider’s coverage and/or plan, use this time to dig into competitors and see if you can find a better fit.

Galaxy S24 Release Date: Tips & Tricks is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

Google’s pushed its Android 14 beta to Pixel devices which means we’re starting to learn about the problems plaguing those using the unfinished software.

The official Android 14 release date is still months away, but you can give the new operating system a try right now if you own a Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, or Pixel 7 Pro.

The Android 14 beta lets Pixel users try out new features ahead of time and it also helps Google squash bugs and performance issues ahead of the final release later this year.

While you might be weighing a move away from Android 13, beta software isn’t for everyone. The Android 14 beta is pre-release software and early software is often buggy.

In fact, Google’s already called out issues on board the beta. Some issues are minor, others might convince you to keep your Pixel on Android 13.

If you’re debating a move to the Android 14 beta, you should be familiar with these issues before you install the software. And if you’re already running the Android 14 beta on your Pixel device, you should keep an eye out for problems. If you do run into issues, you should report them to Google so the company can improve the final product.

In this guide we’ll take you through the current state of Android 14 beta problems, provide you with places to look for fixes, show you where to find feedback about the Android 14 beta, and show you how to report issues with the software.

Android 14 Beta Problems

Google’s Android 14 beta could have a huge impact on your Pixel’s performance. While some users might see improvements, others will run into bugs and performance issues.

The company’s highlighted several potential issues with the current version of the Android 14 beta, Android 14 beta 3.1. Right now the list includes:

General

• Various stability, battery, or performance issues.
• For users with accessibility needs, this release might not be appropriate for daily use.
• Some apps might not function as expected when running on this release. This limitation includes Google’s apps as well as other apps.

Android Platform

• An issue with the system UI sometimes causes the screen to flicker when a video is playing or an app is using in picture-in-picture mode.
• In some cases, video continues playing in the background even after closing an app if the video was playing in picture-in-picture mode when it was closed.
• A video that is playing in picture-in-picture mode stops playing abruptly if the back gesture is used within the PiP settings screens.
• A system issue can sometimes cause the Android System Intelligence service to crash.

Apps

• When using a device with a work profile, the Google Play Store app in the work profile hangs or crashes when launched.

You can learn more about these issues, and others, over on Google’s IssueTracker website.

How to Report Android 14 Beta Problems

If you run into bugs or performance issues while running the Android 14 beta, you’ll want to report back to Google. Your feedback will help the company identify, and potentially fix, issues before the official version arrives later on this year.

You can also share feedback directly with Google via the Android 14 Issue Tracker and the Android Beta Feedback app. You can learn more about those over on Google’s website.

You can also share feedback on the Android Beta Reddit.

How to Fix Android 14 Beta Problems

If you encounter an issue with the Android 14 beta, make sure you’re running the latest version. Google recently released Android 14 beta 3.1 and it fixes the following issues:

• Fixed issues where Fingerprint Unlock was either unavailable or unusable on some devices.
• Fixed platform compatibility issues that were affecting mapping SDKs, which caused dependent apps to crash in some cases.

As for Android 14 beta 3, it fixed a ton of issues including:

• Fixed issues that prevented Wi-Fi calling from being enabled for some devices and carriers.
• Fixed an issue that caused Direct My Call interactions to fail in some cases where they would normally work.
• Fixed system issues that caused unnecessary power consumption in some cases.
• Fixed system stability issues that caused UI jank in some cases.
• Fixed an issue that caused the system Settings app to crash while setting the wallpaper.
• Fixed an issue with the system UI that could cause a GPU hang, leading to “Application Not Responding” (ANR) errors.
• Fixed a system issue that could sometimes cause a device’s GPS services to stop working until the device was rebooted.
• Fixed issues with the IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) that could prevent devices from being able to make Wi-Fi calls in some cases.
• Fixed an issue where a blank screen displays after selecting the “Message” option for a recent caller in the Google Phone app.
• Fixed an issue where while 3-button navigation was enabled for a device, putting Google Maps into picture-in-picture mode made the picture-in-picture window disappear.
• Fixed an issue where locking and unlocking a device while playing a video in the Google TV app could cause the device to freeze.
• Fixed an issue with Android Auto where some users could be asked to re-pair Bluetooth.
• Fixed issues with Health Connect, including the following issues and other API and system behaviors:
  • An issue where the system back button stopped working while Health Connect integration was in progress.
  • An issue where the Route Permissions screen would sometimes freeze.
  • An issue where Health Connect sometimes couldn’t be accessed in system settings.
  • An issue where the data category page of Health Connect was missing some permission types when a filter was applied.

If you’re still having issues and you can’t wait for Google to release the next version of the beta, you’ll have to try and fix the issue(s) yourself.

The Android Beta Reddit is a great resource for those running into trouble as solutions will be shared there. Same goes for the Pixel Help Forums.

If you’re having trouble installing the Android 14 beta on your Pixel, you’ll want to check out Google’s guide for advice.

If the issues become too frustrating, you can move your device off of the Android 14 beta. However, you won’t be able to unenroll from the beta and go back to a public release until you’ve wiped all locally saved data on your device.

Google also notes that you might encounter issues restoring a backup.

Where to Find Android 14 Beta Feedback

As we push away from the Android 14 beta release, you’ll want to monitor feedback from early adopters.

We’ve seen feedback emerge on social media sites like Twitter and YouTube. We’ve also seen feedback on Google’s Pixel Help Forums, XDA-Developers, and the Android Beta Reddit.

Short-term feedback about the software is useful, but you’ll also want to make sure you dig into long-term feedback from beta testers if you’re on the fence about a move from Android 13 to Android 14 beta or from one version of the Android 14 beta to another.

What’s Next

Google says it plans to release stability upgrades as we approach the final Android 14 release date for Pixel devices.

The final version of Android 14 will drop for compatible Pixel devices sometime after July. We suspect it will land for these models in August.

Pixel Android 14 Beta Problems: 5 Things to Know is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

If you’ll be in the market for a new smartphone in 2023, there are some great reasons to think about waiting for Google’s Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

Google’s reportedly working on a pair of successors for its current flagships, the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro and we’ve seen numerous leaks and reports highlight potential Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro features.

We’ve heard about a smaller Pixel 8 display size, a brand new processor, and some changes to the overall design of the company’s flagship phones.

The device’s won’t arrive on shelves tomorrow and we’ve got several months to go before Google officially announces and releases them.

That being said, if you’re hunting for a new device, and a new Android device in particular, you might want to hang around and wait for the company’s inevitable announcement.

In this guide we’ll take you through the best reasons to wait for the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. We’ll also go over some reasons why you might want to buy a completely different device long before Google makes these devices official.

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are still in development behind the scenes so we’ll regularly update this guide as we approach their release date later on this year.

Wait for a Smaller Pixel Display

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One of the more interesting Pixel 8 rumors we've seen revolves around a new display size for the Pixel 8 variant.  While the Pixel 8 Pro will likely keep a large 6.7-inch display like its predecessor the Pixel 7 Pro, the Pixel 8's screen may be smaller than the Pixel 7's. The Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 both employ a 6.32-inch display. According to display analyst Ross Young, the Pixel 8 could sport a 6.16-inch OLED screen.  This is extremely interesting because most high-performance Android devices utilize massive displays. If Google decides to shrink the Pixel 8's screen and design, it would appeal to those who want a lot of firepower, but don't necessarily want to carry around a big phone in their pocket.  If you've been looking for a smaller flagship Android device, and you aren't impressed with the options on the market right now, you may want to consider waiting.

> 1 / 7

4 Reasons to Wait for the Pixel 8 & 3 Reasons Not To is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

Shoppers in the market for a new Android smartphone may want to buy a new device right now or in the near future. That being said, others might want to wait for the rumored Samsung Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24, and Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Samsung is reportedly working on a new Galaxy S24 series to replace its current flagships, the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra.

The Galaxy S23 series is extremely new, but that hasn’t stopped the Galaxy S24 rumor mill from churning. We’ve already heard a few things about the Galaxy S23’s successors and they may give those of you in the hunt for a new phone a reason to pause.

The Galaxy S24 release date is a long way out. However, the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra should be on your radar if you’re planning to upgrade your phone in late 2023 or 2024.

In this guide we’ll take you through the best reasons to wait for the Samsung Galaxy S24 right now We’ll also detail the best reasons to buy another device. We’ll continue to update this guide with new information about the Galaxy S24 as it becomes available.

Wait for a Better Screen

It looks like the Galaxy S24 Ultra could get a big time display upgrade.

According to SamLover, the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s display will have a 144Hz refresh rate. If true, it would be the first Galaxy smartphone with this capability. Right now, the top-of-the-line models features 120Hz.

If this rumor is accurate, the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s display would offer a smoother scrolling experience and an even better experience while playing games.

Wait for Even Better Performance

The Galaxy S23 series and other top notch smartphones like the iPhone 14 series and OnePlus 11 offer excellent performance, but the Galaxy S24 series will likely take a step up. And we’re not just talking about the processor.

The Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra will come with a new processor. The latest rumors point to a new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip from Qualcomm, expected to launch in late 2023. The supposed specs (CPU/GPU configuration) of the processor have leaked well in advance.

Qualcomm has confirmed a Snapdragon launch event, set for October 24th-26th in Maui, and it’s there that we should learn more about its newest processor.

A report from a South Korean outlet suggests we could see Samsung use a new Exynos chip for some Galaxy S24 models. This has seemingly been confirmed by Samsung executives who say they’re working to bring Exynos back to flagship devices.

The company is reportedly working on a new Exynos 2400 processor and production will apparently start in November at the earliest. Another report out of Korea backs up this assertion.

A leaker claims the Exynos-powered Galaxy S24 models will emerge in Southeast Asia and Europe. We expect the United States to get the Snapdragon models.

One leaker believes Samsung could equip the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24+ with 12GB of RAM while the Galaxy S24 Ultra could have 16GB of RAM. This has been backed up by a report out of Korea.

Even if that doesn’t pan out, the Galaxy S24 series will still provide users with excellent speeds and battery life, good enough for most people.

On top of that, a report out of China states that the Snapdragon Gen 3 chip will have a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) that’s 50% faster than the Snapdragon Gen 2’s GPU.

We’ve also heard the Galaxy S24 series will support faster UFC 4.1 storage, come with a new modem and it might be one of the first smartphones to offer Wi-Fi 7. Historically, Samsung has been the first Android OEM to support the latest version of Wi-Fi.

All of these in combination would lead to even better battery life and even faster connectivity. It’s exciting and one reason why you might want to put your wallet away and wait for Samsung’s new models.

Wait for Satellite Connectivity

This feature was rumored for the Galaxy S23 series, but it missed. However, it looks like it could be a reality on the Galaxy S24 series.

It looks like the Galaxy S24 series will offer satellite connectivity which would put it on par with Apple’s iPhone 14 series. The iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max all have satellite capabilities.

If this pans out, it would let users send text messages over satellite networks. This would be huge for people who like to venture out into areas with bad or non-existence cellular service.

Wait for More Galaxy S24 Info

Leaks will continue throughout the year so if you’re on the fence about what to do about your next smartphone purchase, you might want to wait for additional Galaxy S24 information.

Leaks will fill in the blanks in the months ahead and you can expect to hear more about the Galaxy S24’s feature set (display, design, S Pen, etc.).

This will provide you with a much clearer look at Samsung’s plans and ultimately help you make a decision about whether to wait for the Galaxy S24 or buy another device before it arrives.

The smartphone market can be reactionary and with Apple reportedly planning to make some big changes to the iPhone in 2023, we could see Samsung follow suit in 2024.

Don’t Wait If You Can’t Wait Until 2024

If your current smartphone is broken or extremely outdated, waiting for the Galaxy S24, Galaxy 24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra isn’t a great option right now.

As of right now you can expect the Galaxy S24 series to launch in January or February of 2024. The release date should follow a few weeks later.

Samsung could switch up its long-standing protocol for the Galaxy S24 release, but as of right now you should expect a release in early 2024.

Don’t Wait for a Big Redesign

If you’re hoping the Galaxy S24 series looks vastly different than the Galaxy S23 series, don’t hold your breath.

Early reports indicate the Galaxy S24’s design will utilize the same design as their predecessors. This doesn’t mean they’ll be identical, but it could mean that they share a lot in common.

If you aren’t a fan of how the Galaxy S23 looks and feels, you may not want to wait for the Galaxy S24.

Don’t Wait for Huge Camera Upgrades

The Galaxy S23’s cameras are extremely capable (though not without criticism). And while we may see Samsung make some minor upgrades to the Galaxy S24’s camera setup, don’t expect huge improvements.

According to well-known leaker Ice Universe, the Galaxy S24’s main camera will likely remain the same or get slightly changed. However, he believes the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s telephoto sensor will get an upgrade.

We haven’t heard anything about the Galaxy S24 or Galaxy S24+ cameras. So while we should see improvements, especially in the software department, we aren’t expecting Samsung to move mountains next year.

Don’t Wait If You Find a Phone You Really Like

Don’t let the Galaxy S24 hold you back. If you find a phone that you love, at a price you really like, don’t be afraid to make a move. Remember, most carriers allow you to upgrade after a year so you can always snag the Galaxy S24 next year if you like what you see.

Before you commit to waiting for the Galaxy S24, make sure you go hands-on with devices you can actually buy right now. Again, there are a bunch of solid options out there. A few of the best Galaxy S24 alternatives include:

• Galaxy S23
• Galaxy S23+
• Galaxy S23 Ultra
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• Google Pixel 7
• Google Pixel 7 Pro
• OnePlus 11

Dig through as many devices as possible and you may wind up walking out of a store with a new phone long before the Galaxy S24 arrives.

Don’t Wait for Deals

You don’t have to wait for the Galaxy S24 to launch to save money a bunch of money on a Galaxy S23 or another Galaxy phone.

As we push away from the Galaxy S23’s release date, retailers and carriers continue to offer excellent Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra trade-on offers. As the year goes on, you can expect to see additional deals emerge.

If you find a great deal on a Galaxy S23 model or another device, don’t be afraid to make a move. You can always buy a new phone right now and upgrade to the Galaxy S24 in early 2024.

4 Reasons to Wait for the Galaxy S24 & 5 Reasons Not To is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.

Google’s reportedly working on new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro flagships. If you’re interested in buying one, here are some tips that will come in handy ahead of the Pixel 8 release date.

If you’re searching for a new Android smartphone, and you aren’t in a hurry, you might want to hang back and wait for Google’s Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The two devices are currently in development behind the scenes and they should launch later this year.

We don’t have an official release date yet, but it’s safe to assume the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will both arrive in October. The devices recently got certified at the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) which is a step in the right direction, but a launch is far from imminent.

While we’ve got a long way to go before these Android flagships hit shelves, there are some things you might want to do to prepare for their inevitable arrival.

If you think you might want to buy the Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro, here are some tips that will help you prepare for their release later this year.

Track Pixel 8 Rumors

If you’re even remotely interested in buying a Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro later this year, you’ll want to keep a close eye on the rumor mill.

We’ve seen rumors hint at the devices codenames, screen sizes, and processor, and we’ll see plenty more as the weeks go by. In fact, we should know just about everything there is to know about these devices before launch.

These rumors will help you set proper expectations and they’ll also help you decide if you want to make one, or the other, your next device.

For the latest information about the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, check out our guide.

Get Familiar with Android 14

Google’s Pixel series is renowned for its clean Android software. Unlike devices from other Android OEM’s, the Pixel series doesn’t have a distinct skin on board. They run the purest form of Android.

Given that the Pixel 8 release date will land in the fall, these devices will run Google’s upcoming Android 14 operating system out of the box.

Android 14 is currently in Google’s beta process and it will likely stay there until August. The beta lets select Pixel users try out the software and its features so if you own a compatible model, you might want to check it out. If you don’t, it’s a good idea to follow the beta from a distance and get a feel for the software.

Learning about Google’s version of Android 14 will be important, especially if you’re planning to move to a Pixel from another Android OEM or an iPhone.

Decide How Much Storage You Need

Use this time to get a feel for how much storage you might need on your new phone. Some of you will be fine with the least amount of storage, but others may want the peace of mind that comes with having more internal space. Picking the right storage capacity will also help you save money.

We don’t know how much storage the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will have on board, but we could see the devices mirror the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro storage options.

• Pixel 7: 128 or 256 GB
• Pixel 7 Pro: 128, 256, or 512 GB

Now keep in mind, the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro don’t come with a microSD card slot for expanded storage which means what you see is what you get.

We haven’t heard anything definitive about the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, but it’s safe to assume they’ll follow suit. If they do, it’ll be important to pick correctly so that you don’t incur buyers remorse.

Look at Other Pixel Phones

Before you decide to wait for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro release date, make sure you shop around starting with Google’s other Pixel devices.

The Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 7a are the obvious choices for those who really want a Google-made device. These are Google’s current flagships and they are among the best smartphones you can buy right now.

You may also want to check out the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and the budget Pixel 6a. These are still excellent devices and they’re much cheaper than they once were.

All of these devices will get upgraded with Android 14 and will receive software support from Google for years to come.

Research Pixel 8 Alternatives

We also recommend digging into Pixel alternatives. Here are a few of the best alternatives, both Android and non-Android, on the market right now.

• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• Samsung Galaxy S23
• Samsung Galaxy S23+
• Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
• OnePlus 11

If you aren’t married to buying a Google Pixel phone, be sure to dig into these devices in 2023.

Make a Plan for Your Current Phone

Start thinking about what you want to do with your current device. This will make the transition to a Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro much smoother.

If you plan on selling your current device to help offset the cost of your next smartphone, you’ll want to track resale prices at popular resellers.

You’ll also want to keep your current phone in good condition because that’s how you’ll get the most money back from some resellers when Pixel 8 trade-in offers arrive.

If you don’t need to trade your phone in, you might know of a friend or relative who could benefit from your current device. Ask around and see if anyone might need a hand-me-down later this year.

Research Carriers

Like the Pixel 7 series, we expect the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro to come with 5G connectivity. If your next phone will be your first 5G device, shop around and see which network works best in your area.

If you’re unhappy with your current provider’s coverage and/or plan, use this time to dig into competitors and see if you can find a better fit for your new device.

We expect the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro to work on a variety of carriers here in the United States including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

Wait for a Smaller Pixel Display

> 1 / 7

One of the more interesting Pixel 8 rumors we've seen revolves around a new display size for the Pixel 8 variant.  While the Pixel 8 Pro will likely keep a large 6.7-inch display like its predecessor the Pixel 7 Pro, the Pixel 8's screen may be smaller than the Pixel 7's. The Pixel 7 and Pixel 6 both employ a 6.32-inch display. According to display analyst Ross Young, the Pixel 8 could sport a 6.16-inch OLED screen.  This is extremely interesting because most high-performance Android devices utilize massive displays. If Google decides to shrink the Pixel 8's screen and design, it would appeal to those who want a lot of firepower, but don't necessarily want to carry around a big phone in their pocket.  If you've been looking for a smaller flagship Android device, and you aren't impressed with the options on the market right now, you may want to consider waiting.

> 1 / 7

Pixel 8 Release Date: Tips & Tricks is a post by Adam Mills from Gotta Be Mobile.