Samsung's toughest Galaxy phone just got Android 17 — here's how to check
Samsung is expanding its One UI 9 rollout in the US, and owners of its rugged Galaxy XCover 7 Pro are next in line.
The Android 17-based update has begun rolling out to carrier-locked models, bringing a number of interface improvements, new privacy features, and upgrades to some of Samsung's built-in apps. The unlocked models will take a bit longer, though, but the rollout is expected to reach them soon.
The update comes with firmware version G766USQUADZJ7, spotted by SamMobile, and was first rolled out in South Korea last month.
One of the more obvious changes is to the Quick Settings panel. One UI 9 gives users more customization options, so they can arrange quick controls to their liking. Samsung has also added a location privacy indicator to give users a better visual indicator when an app accesses their device's location.
There are other improvements beyond the interface. For instance, the Samsung Notes app gets some upgrades that should make it more convenient to work with notes, and Samsung DeX also gets new features. The update also adds a dedicated Warranty and care section in Settings, offering a more accessible spot to find device support information.
Two major Android updates, with more security support aheadThe Galaxy XCover 7 Pro was launched with One UI 7 based on Android 15. The rugged phone now gets two major Android version upgrades with One UI 9. Samsung hasn't been explicit about how many more major OS updates the device will get, though.
There is better news on the security front. Samsung has committed to providing seven years of security updates for the XCover 7 Pro, offering businesses and users who depend on rugged hardware an extended support period.
For the time being, eligible owners can check if the update is available by going to Settings > Software update > Check for updates.