Samsung TV Firmware Update: The Complete Guide to Updating Your Smart TV Software (2026)

Your Samsung TV just flashed a notification about a software update, and you're wondering whether to hit "update now" or ignore it for the hundredth time. Maybe your update option is mysteriously greyed out, or you've been staring at a progress bar stuck at 0% for twenty minutes. Either way, you've come to the right place.

After testing firmware updates across multiple Samsung TV generations - from 2018 budget Crystal UHD sets to 2025 Neo QLED flagships - this guide covers everything you need to successfully update your TV. The process takes between 5-30 minutes depending on your method, and no, it won't delete your apps.

Quick Reference: Samsung TV Update Paths by Model Year

Before diving into detailed instructions, here's a quick-reference table to find your exact menu path. Knowing your Samsung TV setup model year makes the entire process faster.

Three Update Methods at a Glance:

• Automatic (OTA): Background downloads with overnight installation. Best for users who want zero maintenance.

• Manual Internet: Triggered on-demand through settings. Takes 5-25 minutes depending on update size.

• USB Drive: Offline installation using downloaded firmware. Most reliable when internet updates fail.

⚠️ Critical Warning: Never turn off your TV or unplug it during an update. This can corrupt firmware and potentially brick your television.

Why Samsung TV Firmware Updates Matter for Performance & Security

Samsung Smart TV firmware updates deliver four concrete benefits that directly impact your viewing experience.

New Features and Interface Improvements

The Tizen 9.0 update rolling out to 2024 models brought a completely redesigned settings menu with adjustable transparency and sizing. One UI integration unified the look between Samsung phones and TVs, making navigation feel consistent across devices. Earlier updates added features like Game Bar 4.0 for enhanced gaming feedback and improved SmartThings integration.

Bug Fixes and Stability

That annoying app crash you've been experiencing? Firmware updates frequently patch exactly these issues. Recent updates addressed YouTube playback problems on IPv6 connections, HDMI-CEC handshake failures with soundbars, and Smart Hub loading delays that frustrated users for months.

Security Patches

Samsung's Security Vulnerability Patch (SVP) program releases monthly security updates protecting against discovered vulnerabilities. The SVP-2025 patches addressed multiple security concerns across Samsung's TV lineup. Without these updates, your TV becomes increasingly vulnerable as older software inevitably develops security holes.

App Compatibility

Streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video periodically update their requirements. Outdated firmware can cause these apps to malfunction, fail to load, or disappear entirely from your app store. If you're experiencing Samsung TV troubleshooting issues with streaming apps, an outdated firmware version is often the culprit.

Samsung's 7-Year Update Commitment

In mid-2024, Samsung announced a major policy change: TVs released in 2024 or later, plus select 2023 AI-powered models, now receive seven years of Tizen OS updates. This extends far beyond the previous two-to-three-year support window, meaning your investment stays current much longer. The 2024 lineup received Tizen 9.0 updates starting in mid-2025, with 2023 models still awaiting their rollout as of early 2026.

How to Check Your Samsung TV Firmware Version Before Updating

Before updating, verify your current firmware version to confirm whether an update is actually available for your model.

For 2022-2026 Models:

1. Press the Home button on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings (gear icon)

3. Select All Settings

4. Choose Support

5. Select About This TV (or "Contact Samsung" on some models)

6. Note the Software Version displayed (e.g., 2106.0, 1330.3)

For 2018-2021 Models:

1. Press Home on your remote

2. Go to Settings

3. Select Support

4. Choose About This TV

5. Record your current version number

For 2015-2017 Models:

1. Press Menu on your remote

2. Navigate to Support

3. Select Contact Samsung or About This TV

4. View your firmware version

Understanding Version Numbers

Samsung firmware versions follow a numbering pattern where higher numbers indicate newer releases. For example, firmware version 2106.0 indicates Tizen 9.0 on 2024 models, while 1330.3 represents an earlier Tizen 8.0 release. To compare your version against the latest available, visit Samsung's Download Center and search for your specific Samsung TV model number lookup to find what's currently available.

Understanding Your Samsung TV Model Number and Tizen OS Version

Correctly identifying your TV model and Tizen version ensures you download the right firmware and follow the appropriate update instructions.

Finding Your Model Number

Your model number appears in three locations:

• Back of TV: Label with model code (e.g., QN65S95DAFXZA)

• Settings menu: Settings → Support → About This TV

• Original packaging: Product label on the box

Decoding Samsung Model Numbers

Samsung model numbers contain encoded information about your TV:

Year identifiers in recent models: D = 2024, E = 2025, B = 2022, C = 2023.

Tizen OS Version History

One Connect Box Note

If you own a premium Samsung model like the QN900 series or S95 OLED lineup, your TV may use a One Connect Box. This separate unit houses the TV's connections and may have its own Samsung TV USB port for firmware updates. USB drives may need insertion into the One Connect Box rather than the TV panel itself.

Pre-Update Checklist: What to Do Before Updating Samsung TV

Completing this checklist prevents the most common update failures and saves troubleshooting time later.

1. Verify Your Internet Connection

Navigate to Settings → Network → Network Status and confirm your connection is stable. If possible, use a wired Samsung TV ethernet connection rather than WiFi for the most reliable download.

2. Check Available Storage

Go to Settings → Support → Device Care → Manage Storage. Samsung recommends at least 500MB free for minor updates and 1-2GB for major OS upgrades. Delete unused apps to free space if necessary.

3. Document Your Current Settings

Major updates occasionally reset picture and sound configurations to defaults. Before updating, note your preferred Samsung TV picture settings including brightness, contrast, and color temperature. Similarly, record your Samsung TV sound settings if you've customized equalizer profiles or audio output preferences.

4. Close Background Applications

Exit all streaming apps (Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video) before attempting updates. Running apps frequently cause the "Software Update greyed out" issue covered later in this guide.

5. Prepare USB Drive (If Using USB Method)

Format your USB drive as FAT32 (not NTFS or exFAT). Use a drive between 8-32GB capacity and ensure it contains no other files.

6. Allow Adequate Time

Set aside 30-60 minutes for the complete process. While most updates finish in 15 minutes, larger OS upgrades or USB installations may take longer.

How to Enable Automatic Updates on Samsung Smart TV

Automatic updates keep your TV current without requiring manual intervention. Once enabled, Samsung downloads updates in the background and installs them during standby periods or at your next TV restart.

For 2022-2026 Models:

1. Press Home on your remote

2. Navigate to Settings → All Settings

3. Select Support

4. Choose Software Update

5. Toggle Auto Update to On

For 2018-2021 Models:

1. Press Home on your remote

2. Go to Settings → Support

3. Select Software Update

4. Enable Auto Update

For 2015-2017 Models:

1. Press Menu on your remote

2. Navigate to Support → Software Update

3. Turn on Auto Update

How Automatic Updates Actually Work

When Auto Update is enabled, your TV periodically checks Samsung's servers for new firmware. Downloads happen silently in the background while you watch TV or use apps. Installation typically occurs during overnight standby periods - if your Samsung TV turns on by itself briefly at night, this is often the update process completing.

Standby Update Option

Some Samsung TVs offer a separate "Standby Update" toggle within the Software Update menu. This specifically allows installation during overnight standby, minimizing interruption to your viewing.

A Note on Critical Security Updates

Samsung may push critical security patches regardless of your Auto Update setting. This ensures all TVs receive protection against serious vulnerabilities, even if users have disabled automatic updates.

How to Manually Update Samsung TV Firmware Over the Internet

Manual updates let you control exactly when updates install, making them useful when you want to verify stability before updating or when automatic updates are disabled.

When to Use Manual Updates:

• You've heard about a new feature and want it immediately

• Auto Update hasn't triggered and you want to check availability

• You prefer controlling when your TV restarts

For 2022-2026 Models:

1. Press Home and navigate to Settings → All Settings

2. Select Support

3. Choose Software Update

4. Select Update Now

5. Wait for the TV to check Samsung's servers

6. If an update is found, select Yes to begin downloading

For 2018-2021 Models:

1. Press Home and go to Settings → Support

2. Select Software Update

3. Choose Update Now

4. Confirm the update when prompted

For 2015-2017 Models:

1. Press Menu and navigate to Support → Software Update

2. Select Update Now

3. Follow on-screen prompts

Understanding the Update Process

After selecting Update Now, your TV proceeds through several stages:

• Checking: TV contacts Samsung servers (5-15 seconds)

• Downloading: Firmware file transfers to TV (1-10 minutes depending on size and connection)

• Verifying: TV confirms download integrity (30-60 seconds)

• Installing: Firmware applies to system (3-15 minutes)

• Restarting: TV reboots automatically

What "No Updates Available" Actually Means

This message appears in two scenarios:

1. Your TV genuinely has the latest firmware

2. The update hasn't rolled out to your region yet

Samsung releases updates gradually, often starting in Europe before North America and Asia. If you know an update exists but don't see it, wait a few days and try again. Regional rollouts for Tizen 9.0, for example, took several weeks to reach US users after European releases.

Time Estimates by Update Type

If your internet connection is unstable, consider using your phone as a temporary hotspot. You can connect Samsung TV mobile hotspot for a more stable connection during the download phase. If you're experiencing consistent Samsung TV buffering issues, resolving those network problems first ensures smoother firmware updates.

How to Update Samsung TV Firmware Using a USB Drive (Complete Guide)

USB updates bypass internet connectivity issues entirely and represent the most reliable update method when over-the-air updates fail repeatedly.

When USB Updates Are Necessary:

• No internet connection available

• OTA updates fail repeatedly

• You need a specific firmware version

• TV is located in an area with poor WiFi signal

USB Drive Requirements:

• Format: FAT32 (not NTFS, not exFAT)

• Capacity: 8GB-32GB recommended

• Contents: Empty or dedicated solely to the update

Step-by-Step USB Update Process

Step 1: Find Your Exact Model Number

Locate your complete model number (e.g., UN65AU8000FXZA) from Settings → Support → About This TV. You'll need this exact code - similar models often have different firmware.

Step 2: Download Firmware from Samsung

1. Visit samsung.com/us/support/downloads/ on your computer

2. Enter your exact model number in the search field

3. Locate "Upgrade File (USB type)" under Downloads

4. Click Download to save the compressed file

5. Verify the downloaded file matches your region (firmware for EU models won't work on US TVs)

Step 3: Prepare Your USB Drive

On Windows:

1. Insert USB drive

2. Right-click the drive in File Explorer

3. Select Format

4. Choose FAT32 from the File System dropdown

5. Uncheck "Quick Format" for best results

6. Click Start

On Mac:

1. Open Disk Utility

2. Select your USB drive

3. Click Erase

4. Choose MS-DOS (FAT) format

5. Click Erase

Step 4: Extract Firmware Correctly

This step causes most USB update failures. Pay close attention.

1. Locate the downloaded ZIP file

2. Right-click and select Extract All (Windows) or double-click (Mac)

3. Extract directly to your USB drive's ROOT directory

4. Critical: The extracted folder should appear at the top level of your USB drive

Correct File Structure:

USB Drive (E:)
└── [Firmware Folder Name]
    ├── image
    ├── upgrade.msd
    └── other files...

Incorrect File Structure (Will Not Work):

USB Drive (E:)
└── Some Folder
    └── [Firmware Folder Name]
        └── files...

Step 5: Install the Update

1. Insert the USB drive into your TV's Samsung TV USB port

2. Navigate to Settings → Support → Software Update

3. Select Update Now

4. When prompted about USB update, select Yes

5. Wait for verification and installation

6. Do not remove USB or turn off TV until restart completes

For One Connect Box Users:

If your TV uses a One Connect Box (common on premium QN900, S95 series), insert the USB into the One Connect Box's USB port rather than any port on the TV panel itself.

Post-Update Steps:

After the TV restarts:

1. Wait 30 seconds before removing the USB drive

2. Navigate to About This TV to verify the new version installed

3. Reconfigure any settings that may have reset

For general Samsung TV firmware update guidance and version-specific information, Samsung's Download Center remains the authoritative source.

How to Update Samsung TV Using the SmartThings App

The SmartThings mobile app offers a convenient alternative update method, particularly useful when you're away from your TV or prefer managing updates from your phone.

Prerequisites:

• SmartThings app installed on your phone (iOS or Android)

• TV and phone connected to the same WiFi network

• TV registered in your SmartThings account

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Open the SmartThings app on your phone

2. Select your Samsung TV from the device list

3. Tap the three-dot menu or Settings icon

4. Navigate to Information or Device Info

5. Look for Software Update or Firmware Update

6. Select Update Now if an update is available

Benefits of SmartThings Updates:

• Initiate updates remotely (useful when you're not home)

• Check update status from your phone

• Receive notifications when updates become available

Limitations:

• Not all TV features appear in SmartThings

• Some older models have limited app support

• Requires initial SmartThings setup and pairing

If the SmartThings method fails or your TV experiences issues afterward, our Samsung TV troubleshooting guide covers additional recovery options.

Fix Samsung TV Software Update Greyed Out: Causes and Solutions

The greyed-out update option is the single most common update frustration Samsung TV owners face. Fortunately, it almost always has a simple fix.

Cause 1: Streaming App Running in Background

This is the culprit roughly 70% of the time. Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Prime Video, or other streaming apps running in the background disable the Software Update option.

Solution: Press the Back/Return button repeatedly until you exit to the TV source, or press the Samsung TV Plus button to switch away from streaming apps. Then return to Software Update - the option should now be accessible.

Learning how to close apps on Samsung TV properly prevents this issue from recurring.

Cause 2: No Internet Connection

The Software Update option greys out automatically when your TV can't reach Samsung's servers.

Solution: Navigate to Settings → Network → Network Status to verify connectivity. If WiFi shows connected but Network Status fails, restart your router (unplug for 60 seconds). For more reliable updates, use a wired Samsung TV ethernet connection instead of WiFi.

Cause 3: Wrong Input Source

Update functions only activate when viewing the TV source, not while on HDMI or other external inputs.

Solution: Press the Samsung TV Plus button on your remote, or navigate to Source and select TV or Live TV.

Cause 4: Temporary System Glitch

Occasionally, the TV's software simply gets stuck in an odd state.

Solution: Perform a full power cycle:

1. Turn off the TV

2. Unplug from the wall outlet

3. Wait 60 seconds

4. Hold the TV's power button (on the panel) for 10 seconds while unplugged

5. Reconnect power and turn on

Cause 5: DNS Settings Blocking Samsung Servers

Some internet configurations prevent your TV from reaching Samsung's update servers.

Solution: Try changing your DNS settings:

1. Go to Settings → Network → Network Status → IP Settings

2. Set DNS to Manual

3. Enter 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS) or 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare DNS)

4. Retry the update

When All Else Fails

If the update option remains greyed out after trying all solutions above, the USB update method (covered in Section 7) bypasses these network-dependent issues entirely.

Samsung TV Firmware Update Failed: Complete Recovery Guide

Seeing "Update Failed" after waiting through a lengthy download process is frustrating. These recovery steps address the most common failure causes without requiring professional service.

Common Causes of Update Failures:

• Network interruption during download

• Insufficient storage space

• Corrupted download cache from previous failed attempts

• Samsung server issues (temporary)

Recovery Step 1: Power Cycle Properly

A proper power cycle clears cached errors more effectively than simply turning off and on.

1. Turn off your TV completely

2. Unplug the power cord from the wall

3. Wait 60 seconds (full minute)

4. While unplugged, press and hold the TV's power button for 10 seconds

5. Reconnect power and turn on

Recovery Step 2: Clear Storage Space

Navigate to Settings → Support → Device Care → Manage Storage and remove apps you don't regularly use. Heavy games and unused streaming apps consume significant space. You can learn more about resolving Samsung TV insufficient storage errors if this becomes a recurring issue.

For cached data specifically, knowing how to clear cache on Samsung TV helps free additional space without removing apps entirely.

Recovery Step 3: Stabilize Network Connection

If possible, switch from WiFi to Ethernet. If Ethernet isn't available:

1. Move your router closer to the TV temporarily

2. Restart your router

3. Try updating during off-peak hours (early morning)

4. Change DNS to 8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1

Recovery Step 4: Reset Smart Hub

Smart Hub errors can block firmware installation.

1. Go to Settings → Support → Self Diagnosis

2. Select Reset Smart Hub

3. Enter PIN (default: 0000)

4. Wait for reset to complete

5. Retry the firmware update

This reset removes app logins but preserves your installed apps.

Recovery Step 5: Flash Reset Procedure

For persistent storage-related failures, try Samsung's flash reset:

1. Locate the small button under the Samsung logo on your TV (about 2-3cm from the bottom edge)

2. With TV turned on, press and hold this button for 5-10 seconds

3. Release the button

4. Press and hold the power button on your remote for 5-10 seconds

5. TV will go black and restart

This clears internal flash storage caches without affecting your settings.

Recovery Step 6: USB Update as Final Resort

When OTA updates consistently fail, USB provides the most reliable alternative. Follow the complete USB guide in Section 7.

When to Contact Samsung

Contact Samsung Support if:

• Specific error codes appear (document them)

• TV fails to boot after update attempts

• Multiple USB update attempts fail

• TV shows signs of hardware issues (overheating, strange sounds)

If your Samsung TV frozen during an update attempt, the power cycle procedure above is your first recovery step.

Samsung TV Update Stuck: How to Fix Frozen Updates at Any Percentage

Updates can freeze at specific percentages, each indicating a different underlying issue. Understanding what each stuck point means helps determine the appropriate response.

Stuck at 0%: Network Bandwidth Issue

Your TV can't download the update file.

What to try:

• Wait up to 30 minutes (initial connection can be slow)

• Switch to wired Ethernet connection

• Restart your router

• Try updating during off-peak hours

• If still stuck after 30 minutes, cancel and try USB method

Stuck at 30-50%: Download Interrupted

The download started but lost connection midway.

What to try:

• Wait at least 30 minutes before intervening

• If no progress after 30 minutes, perform a full power cycle

• Clear storage space and retry

• Switch to a more stable connection

Stuck at 99-100%: Installation Verification Phase

This is actually normal behavior - your TV is verifying the downloaded file and preparing installation. This phase can take up to 30 minutes for large updates.

What to try:

• Do NOT power off prematurely - this risks corrupting firmware

• Wait a full 45 minutes before assuming it's truly stuck

• Only after 45 minutes with zero progress should you consider intervention

"Smart Hub Is Being Updated" Loop

This specific message repeating endlessly indicates a Smart Hub error rather than a firmware problem.

Solution:

1. Go to Settings → Support → Self Diagnosis

2. Select Reset Smart Hub

3. Enter PIN (0000)

4. Wait for completion

Safe Wait Time Guidelines

If your Samsung TV keeps freezing during updates or regular use, underlying system issues may need addressing before attempting updates.

Samsung TV USB Update Not Working: Troubleshooting File and Format Issues

USB update failures typically stem from file preparation errors rather than TV hardware problems. Working through these diagnostic steps resolves the issue for most users.

Issue 1: Wrong USB Drive Format

Samsung TVs require FAT32 format - NTFS and exFAT will not work, even though they appear to on computers.

Solution: Reformat your USB drive as FAT32:

• Windows: Right-click drive → Format → Select FAT32 → Uncheck Quick Format → Start

• Mac: Disk Utility → Select drive → Erase → Choose MS-DOS (FAT)

Note: Windows may not show FAT32 as an option for drives over 32GB. Use a smaller drive or third-party formatting software.

Issue 2: Files Placed in Wrong Location

This causes more USB update failures than any other issue. Firmware files must exist in the USB drive's ROOT directory, not nested inside additional folders.

Visual Guide:

✅ Correct:

USB Drive
└── T-HKAFDEUC (or similar folder)
    └── files...

❌ Incorrect:

USB Drive
└── Downloads
    └── T-HKAFDEUC
        └── files...

❌ Also Incorrect:

USB Drive
└── T-HKAFDEUC.zip (still compressed)

Issue 3: Wrong Model Firmware

Samsung firmware is model-specific. Firmware for UN65AU8000FXZA won't work on UN65AU8000BXZA.

Solution: Return to Samsung's Download Center and verify you downloaded firmware for your exact model code, including the regional suffix.

Issue 4: Incomplete File Extraction

The ZIP file must be fully extracted - not just copied while still compressed.

Solution: Extract the complete ZIP contents, delete the original ZIP file from the USB, and verify individual folders and files are visible.

Issue 5: USB Drive Not Recognized

The TV doesn't detect the USB drive at all.

Solutions to try:

• Use a different USB port on the TV

• Try a different USB drive (some drives have compatibility issues)

• Check for physical damage to the USB connector

• Format the drive again and re-copy files

Issue 6: One Connect Box USB Port

Premium Samsung TVs with One Connect Boxes may only accept USB updates through the box, not the TV panel.

Solution: Insert the USB drive into the One Connect Box's Samsung TV USB input rather than any port on the TV itself.

Verification Checklist Before Inserting USB:

• [ ] USB formatted as FAT32

• [ ] Firmware folder visible at root level (not inside another folder)

• [ ] ZIP file fully extracted (no .zip file remaining)

• [ ] Model number in firmware matches TV exactly

• [ ] USB drive has no other files competing for attention

Samsung TV Problems After Update: How to Fix Common Issues

Updates occasionally introduce new issues or change settings unexpectedly. Here's how to address the most common post-update complaints.

Issue 1: Picture and Sound Settings Reset to Defaults

This is normal behavior - some updates intentionally reset settings to ensure new features work correctly.

Solution: Restore your documented settings. If you followed the pre-update checklist, simply re-enter your preferred Samsung TV picture settings values. Consider photographing your settings menu before future updates.

Issue 2: Apps Not Working or Crashing

Updated system software occasionally conflicts with app data cached before the update.

Solution:

1. Navigate to the problematic app

2. Long-press the app icon to access options

3. Select Reinstall or Delete and reinstall from the App Store

4. If multiple apps are affected, Reset Smart Hub (Settings → Support → Self Diagnosis → Reset Smart Hub)

Issue 3: Soundbar or Audio System Issues

Updates sometimes reset HDMI-CEC (Anynet+) and eARC configurations.

Solution:

1. Disconnect and reconnect the HDMI cable between TV and soundbar

2. Navigate to Settings → Sound → Sound Output and reselect your soundbar

3. Go to Settings → General → External Device Manager → Anynet+ and toggle off then on

4. For eARC issues, disable eARC, restart both devices, then re-enable

For detailed reconnection steps, see our guide on how to hook up soundbar to Samsung TV. If audio sync problems emerge, our Samsung TV audio out of sync troubleshooting covers additional fixes.

Issue 4: Remote Control Stops Working Properly

Bluetooth remotes occasionally need re-pairing after major updates.

Solution:

1. Point remote at TV

2. Press and hold Return + Play/Pause buttons simultaneously for 3-5 seconds

3. Watch for "Connecting to remote" message on screen

Full instructions available in our pair Samsung TV remote guide.

Issue 5: WiFi Connection Problems

Network settings occasionally require refresh after system updates.

Solution:

1. Go to Settings → Network → Network Settings

2. Select your network and choose Forget

3. Reconnect by selecting your network and entering password

Issue 6: Picture Quality Looks Different

Updates sometimes enable or change AI-powered picture features like "Intelligent Mode" that automatically adjust settings.

Solution: Navigate to Settings → All Settings → Picture and review Motion settings, Intelligent Mode, and any new auto-adjustment features. Disable features that interfere with your preferred picture quality.

About Firmware Downgrades

Samsung does not officially support rolling back to previous firmware versions. Once updated, you cannot revert. If a new update causes serious issues, your options are waiting for Samsung to release a bug-fix patch or contacting Samsung Support for assistance.

Samsung Tizen OS Update Schedule: Version History and 7-Year Policy

Understanding Samsung's update schedule helps set expectations for when your TV will receive new features and how long support will continue.

Samsung's 7-Year Update Commitment

Announced in mid-2024, Samsung committed to providing seven years of Tizen OS updates for:

• All TVs released in 2024 and later

• Select AI-powered 2023 models (Neo QLED, OLED, and The Frame)

This policy dramatically extends the previous two-to-three-year support window. A TV purchased in 2024 should receive major OS updates through 2031.

What "7 Years of Updates" Actually Means

Samsung distinguishes between update types:

• Major OS Upgrades: New Tizen versions with interface changes and major features (years 1-2 typically)

• Feature Updates: New apps, minor features, performance improvements (years 1-4)

• Security Patches: Monthly vulnerability patches (full 7 years)

• Bug Fixes: Stability improvements as needed (full 7 years)

Tizen Version History and Features

Current Rollout Status (February 2026)

As of early 2026, Tizen 9.0 has rolled out to most 2024 models globally, though some regions experienced delays. The 2023 model rollout has been slower than anticipated - many premium 2023 OLED and Neo QLED owners still await the update. Samsung has not provided a firm timeline for completing the 2023 rollout.

Tizen 9.0 firmware version numbers start with 2106.0 or higher for 2024 models.

Regional Rollout Pattern

Samsung typically releases updates in this order:

1. South Korea (1-2 weeks early)

2. Europe (Germany, UK first)

3. North America

4. Asia Pacific

5. Other regions

If users in Europe report receiving an update, North American users can typically expect it within 1-2 weeks.

Tizen Features by Model Year

Some features added via updates enhance existing functionality, like the Samsung TV screensaver and Ambient Mode that received improvements through Tizen 8.0 updates.

Samsung TV Model-Year Update Support Guide (2015-2026)

Understanding support status by model year helps set realistic expectations and plan for future TV purchases or upgrades.

2024-2026 Models: Full Support

• Receive all new Tizen features

• Seven-year update commitment applies

• Currently receiving or already have Tizen 9.0

• AI features like Vision AI Companion available

• One UI integration supported

2022-2023 Models: Active Support

• 2023 premium models (Neo QLED, OLED, The Frame) included in 7-year policy

• Currently receiving Tizen 8.0/9.0 upgrades

• Full feature updates for 2-3 more years

• Security updates for 5+ more years

• Standard 2022-2023 models may have shorter update windows

2020-2021 Models: Maintenance Mode

• Security patches continue

• Limited new feature updates

• Major OS upgrades unlikely

• Core streaming apps remain supported

• Consider these TVs "mature" in support lifecycle

2018-2019 Models: Security Focus

• Primarily security-only updates

• No major OS or interface upgrades expected

• Apps may begin requiring newer firmware versions

• Basic functionality remains intact

• These models are nearing end-of-support

2016-2017 Models: Minimal/End of Support

• Critical security patches only (if any)

• Some apps no longer available or updated

• Smart features increasingly limited

• Consider streaming device as supplement

Pre-2016 Models: No Active Support

• No longer receiving updates

• App store support minimal

• Smart features significantly degraded

• Strongly recommend external streaming device

Options for Older TV Owners

If your TV no longer receives updates but the display works fine, adding a streaming device restores smart functionality. Samsung TV Plus on older TV models may still function, but dedicated streaming devices provide better app compatibility. If you experience issues with external devices, our guide on Firestick not working Samsung TV troubleshooting can help.

Samsung TV Firmware Update: Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Samsung TV firmware update take?

Samsung TV firmware updates typically take 5-15 minutes for standard bug fixes and security patches when updating over the internet. Major OS upgrades like Tizen 9.0 can take 15-30 minutes due to larger file sizes. USB updates generally require 15-30 minutes total, including verification time. Never turn off your TV during the update process - even if it appears stuck, wait at least 45 minutes before intervening.

Will updating my Samsung TV delete my apps?

No, updating Samsung TV firmware does not delete your installed apps. Your apps, login credentials, and downloaded content remain intact through the update process. However, some picture and sound settings may reset to factory defaults after major updates. Document your preferred settings before updating to restore them easily afterward.

Can I update Samsung TV without internet?

Yes, you can update your Samsung TV without an internet connection using a USB drive. Download the appropriate firmware file from Samsung's Download Center (samsung.com/us/support/downloads) on a computer with internet access. Save it to a FAT32-formatted USB drive, insert the drive into your TV, and navigate to Settings → Support → Software Update → Update Now. The TV will detect and install the firmware from the USB drive.

What happens if I turn off my TV during an update?

Turning off your Samsung TV during a firmware update can cause software corruption, potentially leaving the TV unable to start properly. Always wait for the update to complete fully and the TV to restart automatically. If accidental power loss occurs, the TV may attempt automatic recovery on the next boot. In worst-case scenarios, corrupted firmware may require professional service or main board replacement.

How do I know if my Samsung TV needs an update?

To check if your Samsung TV needs an update, navigate to Settings → Support → Software Update → Update Now. If an update is available, it will begin downloading. If you see "No updates available," your TV has the latest firmware installed for your region. You can also compare your current version (found in Settings → Support → About This TV) against the latest version on Samsung's Download Center.

Can I downgrade Samsung TV firmware?

No, Samsung does not officially support downgrading TV firmware to previous versions. Once you install an update, you cannot revert to older firmware. If you experience problems after an update, your options include waiting for Samsung to release a bug-fix update, performing a factory reset, or contacting Samsung Support. This is why some users prefer waiting a week or two after updates release to see if others report issues.

Why does my Samsung TV say "no update available"?

"No update available" on your Samsung TV typically means either your firmware is already current, or the update hasn't rolled out to your region yet. Samsung releases updates in stages, often starting in Europe before reaching North America. Check Samsung's Download Center for your specific model to see what firmware version should be available. If the website shows a newer version than your TV has, the update simply hasn't reached your region - try again in a few days.

How often does Samsung release TV updates?

Samsung releases TV updates on varying schedules depending on the update type. Security patches arrive approximately monthly for supported models. Bug fixes release as needed when issues are discovered. Major OS upgrades like Tizen 9 release annually, typically first appearing on new TV models before rolling out to previous-year models. Feature updates for supported models arrive several times per year. New TVs receive the most frequent updates, with update frequency decreasing as models age.

If your TV experiences slowness or performance issues that updates haven't resolved, our Samsung TV so slow troubleshooting guide offers additional solutions. For app-specific problems, check our Samsung TV streaming issues coverage.

Keep Your Samsung TV Updated: Final Recommendations

Keeping your Samsung TV firmware current ensures you receive the latest features, security protections, and performance improvements Samsung develops. The process itself is straightforward once you understand your TV's specific menu path.

For most users, enabling automatic updates provides the simplest maintenance approach. Your TV handles everything in the background, installing updates during overnight standby periods without requiring your attention.

When automatic updates aren't suitable - or when issues arise - the manual internet update takes just a few minutes. Navigate to Settings → Support → Software Update → Update Now, and your TV handles the rest.

USB updates serve as the reliable fallback when internet-based updates fail. The extra preparation effort pays off with a nearly foolproof installation process that bypasses network-related failures entirely.

If you've just purchased a new Samsung TV, complete your Samsung TV first-time setup including registering your TV with Samsung and enabling automatic updates. Future firmware maintenance then happens automatically.

Check your current firmware version today - you might have updates waiting that improve your viewing experience immediately.