Software just went crazy.

Summary

In this video, Ryan Thomas discusses the underwhelming experience with Samsung's 1 UI 7 update, which faced delays and critical bugs, leaving users disappointed. While 1 UI 8, a less dramatic but more refined update, is expected soon, Google’s Material 3 Expressive on Pixel devices is praised for its transformative UI changes. Ryan also touches on the recent redesign of iOS 26, which has sparked debate over its aesthetic and usability. Overall, he highlights the exciting competition between Samsung, Google, and Apple, making 2025 an exciting year for software innovation in smartphones.

Takeaways

• 😀 Samsung's 1 UI 7 update for Android 15 was delayed, buggy, and underwhelming for many users, particularly with critical errors like phones failing to unlock in South Korea.
• 😀 1 UI 8, which is currently in beta, is seen as a more refined update that addresses some of the issues in 1 UI 7, but it’s still not as exciting as its predecessor should have been.
• 😀 The beta version of 1 UI 8 is a more complete and polished experience compared to previous Samsung updates, hinting that the final version will be better.
• 😀 Apple's iOS 26 introduces a radical redesign with a new, possibly confusing naming scheme and a liquid glass aesthetic that includes lighting effects, but it also faces readability concerns.
• 😀 iOS 26 is currently in beta, and users are divided on it, with some loving the visual effects and others criticizing the update’s readability and usability issues.
• 😀 Samsung, Apple, and Google are all competing to push software updates that offer new features, but the overall hardware landscape seems to have plateaued in recent years.
• 😀 Google’s Material 3 Expressive update brings a new dynamic and fluid experience to the Pixel, adding animated physics and haptic feedback, which improves the overall user interaction.
• 😀 Material 3 is a transformative update for Pixel devices, and it could be one of the most exciting software updates for users in recent years.
• 😀 Software updates are becoming increasingly important for Android and other smartphone makers, with many committing to longer support periods, thus enhancing long-term ownership experiences.
• 😀 Other smartphone makers like Oppo, Xiaomi, Honor, Vivo, and Motorola are also making big strides in software design, contributing to an exciting and competitive software ecosystem.

Q & A

What was the major issue with the Samsung 1 UI 7 update?

The major issue was a critical error where some users in South Korea reported that their phones would not unlock after installing the update, leading to further delays in the global rollout.

How did the community react to the 1 UI 7 update?

The reaction was mixed. While some appreciated the fresh coat of paint and functionality changes, others were disappointed by the lack of polish, which made the update feel underwhelming.

What is the primary difference between 1 UI 7 and 1 UI 8?

1 UI 8 focuses on refining the experience and polishing the rough edges of 1 UI 7, offering a more complete and less abrasive user experience, rather than introducing major new features.

When is the 1 UI 8 update expected to release?

1 UI 8 is expected to drop when Samsung reveals its new foldables, the ZFold 7 and Z Flip 7, during the summer.

What changes can we expect in iOS 26?

iOS 26 is expected to bring a radical redesign with a new liquid glass aesthetic for icons and features, which includes light refraction. However, it's still a work in progress and might have readability issues in the final release.

Why was there a backlash on social media regarding iOS 26?

The backlash stemmed from the divisive nature of the update. Some users disliked the new aesthetic, calling it the worst iOS update, while others were fascinated by the lighting and refraction effects, though many hadn’t even installed it yet.

What notable detail was reverted in iOS 26's beta build?

iOS 26's beta build reverted back to the original camera icon on the home screen, a detail appreciated by some users.

Why is Material 3 Expressive considered a transformative update?

Material 3 Expressive is considered transformative due to its focus on animated physics and haptic feedback, which makes interactions feel more fluid and natural. It elevates the overall Pixel experience significantly.

What updates is Google bringing to the Pixel Watch with Material 3?

Material 3 is also being introduced to the Pixel Watch, aiming to make better use of its circular form factor and rounded display, which is expected to bring a more refined and polished experience.

How does software development in the smartphone industry compare to hardware development currently?

While hardware has plateaued in recent years, software has seen a resurgence, with companies like Samsung, Apple, and Google competing to offer better user interfaces and experiences. This shift places more emphasis on software improvements over hardware.

What are the benefits of longer software support from smartphone manufacturers?

Longer software support enhances the long-term ownership experience, ensuring phones remain viable on the secondhand market and encouraging customers to return for future purchases. It also extends the usability of devices beyond their hardware lifespan.