The Samsung Galaxy S21 came out on January 29, 2021

Samsung announced the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra on January 14, 2021, and made them available for purchase on January 29, 2021. All three models launched on the same date, though pre-orders had started a week earlier on January 21. The phones were sold through Samsung's website, major carriers like Verizon and AT&T, and retailers including Best Buy and Amazon.

The S21 line replaced the Galaxy S20 series, which had launched a year earlier in March 2020. Samsung typically releases a new flagship phone line each year in early spring, so the S21's January release was slightly earlier than usual but followed the company's general pattern of annual updates.

Key Takeaways

  • The Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra all became available on January 29, 2021, following pre-orders that started January 21.
  • Samsung announced the phones on January 14, 2021, giving customers two weeks before the official release date.
  • The S21 line was sold through Samsung directly, wireless carriers, and major electronics retailers from day one.
  • As of now, the S21 is over three years old and Samsung has released two newer flagship lines since then—the S22 in February 2022 and the S23 in February 2023.

Why the January 2021 timing mattered

Samsung moved the S21 launch earlier than its usual March or April window, partly because the company wanted to get ahead of other phone makers and partly because the pandemic had shifted supply chains. January gave Samsung a clear window before other major flagships launched later that spring.

The early 2021 timing also meant the S21 had a longer shelf life in stores before the next generation arrived. Samsung typically supports each flagship for about three years with security updates and major software patches, so a January launch meant the S21 would receive support through early 2024.

The three S21 models and their differences

Samsung released three versions: the standard S21, the S21+, and the S21 Ultra. The standard S21 had a 6.2-inch screen, the S21+ had a 6.7-inch screen, and the S21 Ultra had a 6.8-inch screen with a stylus slot. All three used the same processor (the Snapdragon 888 in most regions) but differed in camera setup, battery size, and RAM options.

The S21 Ultra was the most expensive and came with the most advanced camera system, including a periscope zoom lens. The standard S21 was the most affordable and smallest, making it the choice for people who wanted a flagship phone without the largest screen or the highest price tag. The S21+ sat in the middle, offering a larger screen than the standard model but without the Ultra's extra camera features.

How old the S21 is now and what that means

The Samsung Galaxy S21 launched over three years ago. Samsung released the S22 line in February 2022 and the S23 line in February 2023, so the S21 is now two generations behind the current flagship. However, Samsung typically supports phones for three years of major updates and four years of security patches, so S21 owners should still be receiving regular updates through early 2024 or 2025 depending on their region.

If you own an S21, it remains a capable phone for everyday use, though it will eventually stop receiving updates. If you are considering buying a used S21, check the purchase date and remaining warranty, since a phone from January 2021 may have limited support time left depending on when you buy it.

Where to find S21 information now

Samsung's official website still lists the S21 in its archive section, though it is no longer sold as a new phone through Samsung directly. You can find detailed specs, software information, and support documents there. If you own an S21 and need help with updates, troubleshooting, or accessories, Samsung's support site has dedicated pages for the S21 line.

Used S21 phones are widely available through second-hand marketplaces, carrier trade-in programs, and refurbished phone retailers. When buying used, verify the phone's condition, check that it is not locked to a carrier you cannot use, and confirm the seller's return policy in case of problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Samsung S21 still worth buying in 2024?

The S21 is still a capable phone for texting, calling, photos, and apps, but it is now three years old and nearing the end of Samsung's support window. If you buy one used, expect to pay significantly less than a new phone, but plan to replace it within a year or two as updates end. A newer model like the S23 or S24 will have longer support remaining.

When did Samsung stop making the S21?

Samsung stopped manufacturing the S21 as a new product when the S22 launched in February 2022. However, refurbished and used S21 phones continued to be sold through various retailers and second-hand markets for years afterward. Samsung no longer produces the S21 new.

How long will the S21 get software updates?

Samsung promised three years of major Android updates and four years of security patches for the S21 line. Since it launched in January 2021, major updates should end around January 2024, though security patches may continue through January 2025. Check your phone's settings to see what version of Android you are running and when your last update arrived.

What is the difference between the S21 and S21 Ultra?

The S21 Ultra has a larger 6.8-inch screen, a stylus, and a more advanced camera system with a periscope zoom lens. The standard S21 has a 6.2-inch screen and a simpler camera setup. Both use the same processor, but the Ultra costs significantly more and is aimed at people who want the largest screen and best camera.