S8+ will not update ota or via smartswitch

[Android Central Question]

The only way I've ever been able to get an update on my s8+ is by taking it to a phone repair store in my area and having them force an update. This is a US ATT device, and have never been used outside the US. ATT nor Samsung tech support were able to resolve the issue other than simply telling me to file an insurance or warranty claim. I've been having this issue for the last 18 months, and although I've pretty much given up, I cant help but be curious as to what is causing this issue. I've searched the web high and low and have yet to find a resolution. Any ideas?

 

[B. Diddy]

Welcome to Android Central! Can you clarify -- are you also using this phone on AT&T, or on another carrier?

 

[outlaw204loc]

Purchased from att and always used on att

 

[B. Diddy]

Have you tried wiping the cache partition? https://support.t-mobile.com/docs/DOC-34311. Or a factory reset?

 

[outlaw204loc]

Factory reset did not make a difference. The device will not even download an update. I only get 'device is already up to date'. What system apps handle device updates? Could it possibly be a hardware issue? Phone works perfectly fine other than not updating.

 

[B. Diddy]

I suppose it could be hardware, but this kind of thing usually turns out to be a firmware issue. Did you buy this brand new, mint condition? I wonder if they might have given you a refurbished unit (either knowingly or unknowingly) that had been rooted previously, then unrooted -- that might lead to issues like this.

It might be worth reinstalling the firmware (for the exact model variant) using Odin: http://forums.androidcentral.com/am...w-flash-stock-rom-via-odin-new-interface.html. But I'm not sure if that would mess with your warranty.