Millions of Samsung Galaxy users are being urged to install a security update immediately, as a critical fix has just been released. The update includes April’s security patches as well as camera fixes for flagship models like the S23, S22, and S21 Series. Users should be on the lookout for the update availability based on their network and location, with older or less expensive devices expected to receive the update later in the month. The update contains a mix of Android and Samsung patches, with a critical patch addressing a memory corruption issue in Qualcomm’s chipset, which could lead to local privilege escalation.
The latest update from Samsung includes a critical Qualcomm patch that was missing from the previous month’s release and four high-risk patches that could expose a device to arbitrary code execution. While there is no indication that these vulnerabilities can be exploited without physical access to a device, it is still advised to update as soon as possible. This contrasts with Google’s update for Pixel devices, which included two high severity threats that may be under limited, targeted exploitation. Apple has also issued warnings to users in 92 countries about potential targeted attacks, prompting users on Android and iOS to take necessary precautions to enhance security.
Samsung is updating its Software Update app, confusing many users, but this app simply checks for updates. The company is making advances in seamless update adoption and is focusing on Galaxy AI performance, with a hybrid AI approach that combines cloud-based and on-device technology. This has implications for security and privacy, especially as the company aims to bring AI features to older models dating back to 2021. Samsung’s mobile lead TM Roh emphasized the importance of maintaining standards of security and privacy in the new era of data-intensive mobile experiences, giving users greater control over their data and limiting certain features to function entirely on-device.
Samsung plans to bring Galaxy AI features to older phones, with cut-down versions of the AI package available for devices dating back to 2021. The hardware constraints related to AI impact performance, with a focus on on-device AI processing to ensure user privacy and control over data. This approach is aimed at encouraging upgrades and enhancing user experiences. As iPhone users eagerly anticipate AI upgrades with iOS 18 in the fall, the focus will shift to Apple’s ability to develop a hybrid AI approach that aligns with user privacy expectations. The evolution of AI capabilities on both Samsung and Apple devices will shape the future of mobile experiences and security measures for users.
