OneUI 8 has further increased Samsung's reliance on Google's base Android code. This has come at a significant and apparent detriment to many aspects of OneUI which used to set it apart and reasons why I have used Samsung over other devices since the S10.
Keyboard and mouse behaviour, Samsung DeX, multitasking and scaling, the large screen taskbar (e.g., Fold and Tab)... All of these areas have taken huge steps backward from a functionality and UX persepctive thanks to Samsung giving up responsibility and falling back to Google's code. If I wanted to use a basic version of Android, I wouldn't buy a Samsung.
I had been excited for the upcoming Samsung "tri-fold," but at this point unless OneUI 8.5 comes along with massive steps toward restoring the functionality OneUI used to offer, it'll be a waste of money.
Maybe, Samsung, instead of releasing 28 different phones this year (literally, in 2025, Samsung released 28 phones across the A, F, M, S and Z series, not to mention watches and tablets), you can release fewer variants and actually get back to focusing on the software/UX to once again stand as the best version of Android for people who want to use their devices as more than just a doomscrolling machine.
I'm ready to buy a "tri-fold" - Over to you to actually sell me on it with the software.
Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback regarding your experience with One UI 8 and your expectations for future Samsung devices. We truly value insights from long-standing users like yourself, especially those who have supported the Galaxy ecosystem since the S10.
We understand your concerns regarding the evolving integration of Google's base Android code and its impact on key Samsung experiences such as Samsung DeX, multitasking, keyboard and mouse behavior, and the large-screen taskbar. Your observations are important, and we acknowledge that maintaining a distinct and powerful user experience across all form factors—particularly on foldables and tablets—is essential to our vision.
Your feedback on the breadth of device releases is also noted. While our goal is to offer a wide range of choices to meet diverse user needs, we recognize the importance of ensuring that software and user experience remain at the forefront of innovation. Striking the right balance between hardware variety and software excellence is a priority we continue to refine.
Regarding the upcoming tri-fold device, we appreciate your interest and candid expectations. Please be assured that your comments about One UI 8.5 and the desire for a more robust, productivity-focused experience have been shared with our development teams. We are committed to delivering meaningful enhancements that align with the needs of power users like yourself.
Thank you once again for your thoughtful input. Your voice plays a vital role in shaping the future of Samsung’s software and hardware experiences.
