New S8, no 7.1.1 update. Is this normal for AT&T? Return it?

Thanks for the response- Yes I am fully aware of the finalized software version the S8 shipped with, likely developed well before the finalization of 7.1.1 based on production timeline requirements.  My question was in reference to updates, pushed after finalization and release of the device by Samsung. While I appreciate the response, you may have missed the point of my question so I will reiterate it more simply.

What is the status of upgrades to the S8?  Along the same lines, what should expectations be for this device from AT&T and their influence with Samsung?

To elaborate, should there be any expectation that AT&T will be proactive in supporting the device with timely updates in the future?  Asking because at present, 7.1.1 was released in early December 2016 but understand the S8 final development was likely finalized just after this release but that's no excuse for delayed support today. This is not my first rodeo and fully appreciate development cycles and project management- have been doing it for over two decades specifically in the technology arena.

I can understand lagging support for legacy devices but would think AT&T (along with Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint et al) would press for support for a "flagship" device especially at the price point and the leverage major carriers have with manufacturers. If not, then I have been mistaken in part of AT&T's strategic and marketing vision and perhaps should have opted to either purchase the current Pixel or wait for the Pixel 2. It is encouraging that AT&T has pushed the April security patch but 7.1.2 has now been out for over a month now and nothing but silence from AT&T. And before anyone makes excuses about the fragmentation of Android among carriers and devices, that is precisely my point- is the S8 going to be supported in a timely fashion?  Evidence seems to point to the contrary but I may well be missing the challenges.

So back to square 1, what are the plans from Samsung and AT&T to support the S8 near and long term?  Samsung (and in turn AT&T) is charging a premium for the device, it's not too much to ask for it to be current.

/r

Allen

Guess I had unrealistic expectations for the S8.  I understand AT&T doesn't release the updates but as a major carrier they most certainly have significant influence. I also realize the vast majority of consumers are oblivious to what OS version their devices are running or why it matters- No real consumer push to hold carriers and manufacturers accountable.

I understand many of the challenges just figured there were changes afoot on the Android front from Samsung.  Just wish my old HTC could have made it a few more months for the Pixel 2 release but had become non-functional for a full day.  Guess I've either signed up for delays in support or need to return the S8...

oh my. this thread could go a long way. i always wondered when we will rise above 7.0

MANY DEVICES elsewhere are on 7.1

i think 8.0  will be here before we ever rise above the bland 7.0

i got s8 plus myself.

GOOD NEWS FOR YOU. YOU CAN GO 8.0 BETA IF YOU WANT. ITS OPEN ENROLLMENT. NOT FOR S8 MODELS. ONLY PIXEL.

IT GOES google then samsung then fcc then att then us. thats why. months.

BayFish, you suck!  Thanks for reminding me that "O" Beta is live but so sorry, not for Samsung minions.... LOL!

If history proves consistent, AT&T will lag well behind other carriers BUT that was actually part of my question. Has AT&T received the message that customers are fed up with the in-house delays?  Asking because I bought my new S8 outright and have zero problem selling it and cancelling AT&T.  I can't remember the last contract phone I've bought (iPhone 4 maybe?) and while I've been with them since the pre-Cingular days, it gets old being passed over for updates and ignored as a long-time customer.

Hoping the Treble concept from Android will help expedite updates for all...

/r

Allen