The quick answer

• Calls: often yes on the carrier it was sold for; check the IMEI
• Software: stuck on Android 8, no security updates
• Some apps have already dropped it
• Fine as a backup; not for banking

Calls after the 3G shutdown

The S7 supports VoLTE, and carrier versions were generally approved by the carrier that sold them. Moving one to a different carrier, or using an unlocked or international model, is where problems start: the new carrier may not have it on its approved list. Always check the IMEI before you switch.

How to check yours

1. Find the IMEI: dial *#06# or look in Settings > About phone.
2. Enter it in your carrier's compatibility checker (every major carrier and most prepaid brands have one).
3. If it says the phone isn't supported, it usually means no VoLTE approval for that model. A different version of the same phone may still work.

The software limit: Android 8

The S7 stops at Android 8 and stopped getting security updates years ago. More apps drop old Android versions each year, so expect banking and payment apps to be the first to stop working.

Who it still works for

A spare phone, a phone for calls and texts, or a kids' phone on a parental-controls setup. Water resistance has likely faded with age, so don't rely on it.

If you're replacing it

A new Galaxy A17 or moto g 2026 costs far less than an old flagship did, gets years of updates, and several carriers give them away when you switch. Pair it with a low-cost plan such as Mint Mobile ($15 a month for 6GB on a 12-month term) or Visible ($25 for unlimited, taxes included).