Security updates Note 10/10+?

My OTA has always worked fine on T-Mobile, but today I just received the November 1st update. Lol.
 
Unlocked Note 10+ on T-Mobile - I was on October 1st Security Patch and I just got December 1st Security Patch. That is really good for me. Getting a patch only just over a month behind? Usually it is 3 months or more.
 
Finally today I also got the December security patch.

I notice a difference from having a T-Mobile branded device.. When I had one, the updates would just come automatically. With my factory unlocked device, I always have to check manually for them.

Am I crazy or is this normal?
 
It seems normal to me. I always have to check for them. My wife has the exact same device unlocked and hers usually comes in automatically. I don't get it. At least I still got an update manual check or otherwise.
 
I received the December security patch January 1st.
Last 6-9 months I have to manually check to see if it's available.
 
I just wanted to share an update on my situation. (I couldn't get security updates on my S21...numerous calls to AT&T and Samsung were futile) So, instead of trying to flash my phone myself, I took it to UBreakIfix (USA). I was in and out within 45 minutes...my security updates finally moved from Feb 2021 to Oct 2021. Yay! That was 3 days ago...this morning, for giggles I decided to check Software updates...I got Android 12! Woo-hoo.
 
I just wanted to share an update on my situation. (I couldn't get security updates on my S21...numerous calls to AT&T and Samsung were futile) So, instead of trying to flash my phone myself, I took it to UBreakIfix (USA). I was in and out within 45 minutes...my security updates finally moved from Feb 2021 to Oct 2021. Yay!
How much did they charge you?