Samsung has made significant strides in its software development, and its latest iteration, One UI 8.5, is a testament to this. The new interface boasts improved reachability, cleaner design, and smarter defaults – all hallmarks of a well-thought-out Android experience. However, despite the impressive software updates, Samsung’s hardware still feels stuck.
The company’s history with innovative hardware features is well-documented, from curved screens and iris scanners to dual-aperture cameras. In the past, Samsung’s phones were often the most exciting and feature-rich devices available. But, over time, the company seems to have lost its desire for innovation, instead opting for a more cautious approach.
One UI 8.5 features some exciting updates, including a fully customizable quick settings panel, area screen-recording, and improved lock screen customization. These changes demonstrate Samsung’s commitment to improving its software, but they also serve as a reminder of the company’s hardware shortcomings.
As the Galaxy S26 series launches alongside One UI 8.5, it’s hard not to feel a sense of disappointment. Where are the bold camera solutions? The bigger batteries? The more daring materials that once defined Samsung’s phones? It seems that, in its pursuit of software excellence, Samsung has sacrificed hardware innovation.
Despite this, One UI 8.5 is still a solid update, and it will likely please fans of Samsung’s software. However, for those eagerly anticipating the next generation of Galaxy smartphones, the lack of significant hardware upgrades may be a letdown. Only time will tell if Samsung can find a way to strike a better balance between its software and hardware offerings.
Source: https://www.phonearena.com/news/Samsungs-software-is-finally-great-and-thats-exactly-why-its-phones-disappoint-me_id176632