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Huawei reveals secret links with Samsung for 5G technology

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Samsung 5G support India

Huawei reportedly said that it has licensed key 5G technologies to Samsung Electronics. Since both of these OEMs were major competitors in the global market, the report suggests some deals and licensing reports have been signed silently.

Notably, Huawei and Oppo have recently signed (via HuaweiCentral) a major agreement to share key technologies amid recent US restrictions. Meanwhile, it’s the first time that Huawei itself revealed that Samsung Electronics is also a licensee for key 5G technologies, and the deals have been extended.

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Aside from the Chinese company claiming that it has patent cross-licensing deals with 20 global and Chinese companies. Among those 20 vendors, Samsung is also a partner of Huawei, while it didn’t respond to Nikkei Asia’s request for comment.

If you don’t have an idea, Huawei was the first to introduce 5G network-capable chipsets, but American bans restricted its access to chip makers like Qualcomm. Since Huawei can now only purchase downgraded Snapdragon 4G chips, it still holds a rich 5G patent portfolio.

Alan Fan, head of Huawei’s Intellectual Property Department said:

“Huawei has developed multiple high-value patent portfolios in the global marketplace in domains like 5G, Wi-Fi, and audio and video codecs. This will enable our industry to keep innovating and provide consumers with more competitive products and services.”

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Samsung 5G support India

Reference Image: Samsung Newsroom

Meet Yash, author and dynamic creator of the compelling tech narratives at Sammy Fans. He has evolved from a Samsung firmware aficionado to a multi-faceted tech storyteller. Yash's expertise shines brightest with his explorations into Samsung's One UI. Beyond the screen, his love for landscapes and rivers adds a unique flavor to his work.

Android

Android 16 coming next month: Is your Samsung Galaxy device eligible for the next major One UI update?

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Samsung One UI 7

Get ready, Samsung Galaxy fans! Android 16 is set to arrive as early as June 2025, bringing exciting changes to your smartphones and tablets. Google has confirmed that this new operating system will roll out to Samsung devices this summer, with some devices possibly getting it sooner than expected.

The big question: Will your Galaxy phone or tablet be eligible for this major update? Let’s explore which Galaxy devices will support Android 16.

Which Samsung devices will get Android 16?

Samsung maintains a clear software update policy that makes determining device eligibility straightforward. Here’s the breakdown:

Flagship Phones (Guaranteed Support)

  • Galaxy S Series: S22, S23, S24, and S25 series
  • Galaxy Z Foldables: Z Fold4, Z Fold5, Z Fold6, and upcoming Z Fold7
  • Galaxy Z Flip Series: Z Flip4, Z Flip5, Z Flip6, and upcoming Z Flip7

All flagship phones launched in 2022 or later are guaranteed to receive the Android 16-based One UI 8 update. The upcoming Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, expected to launch in July 2025, will likely come with Android 16 pre-installed.

Mid-Range Devices (Select Models)

Some mid-range devices will also receive the update, including:

  • Galaxy A55
  • Galaxy A35
  • Galaxy A16 5G (with six years of updates guaranteed)

Samsung’s promise of four years of OS upgrades for select models extends Android 16 compatibility to these devices.

Devices that won’t get Android 16

Unfortunately, older flagships like the Galaxy S21 series won’t receive Android 16. Launched in 2021, these devices have already received the final major update with Android 15 (One UI 7).

What to expect from One UI 8

Samsung’s Android 16-based One UI 8 promises to be both smooth and exciting. Here’s some important information:

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Key Improvements

  • Slicker animations and smoother performance
  • Subtle design refinements
  • Enhanced user experience optimizations

New Features

  • Android 16 Live Updates: Real-time notifications on your lock screen
  • Samsung Now Bar Integration: Seamless experience with live updates
  • Improved system responsiveness

Beta Program Timeline

Samsung is already testing One UI 8 internally. A beta program for devices like the Galaxy S25 series could start as early as late May or early June 2025. This update aims to avoid the delays experienced with One UI 7, ensuring a quicker and smoother rollout.

How to check your device’s eligibility

  1. Navigate to Settings > Software Update on your Galaxy device
  2. Check if your device is still receiving regular software updates in 2025
  3. Review your device’s launch year and model

Update guarantee by Series

  • 7 Years of Updates: Galaxy S24 series and newer foldables (2024+)
  • 4-5 Years of Updates: Galaxy S22, S23 series, and their FE models
  • 6 Years of Updates: Galaxy A16 5G

Stay informed:

You should regularly check Samsung’s official website or trusted sources like Sammy Fans for the final list of eligible devices when One UI 8 is officially announced.

Timeline and rollout expectations:

  • Android 16 Release: June 2025 (Google)
  • One UI 8 Beta: Late May to early June 2025
  • Samsung Rollout: Shortly after Google’s release, starting with the flagship devices
  • Priority rollout sequence:
    • Galaxy S25 series and new foldables
    • Recent flagship devices (S24, S23, S22 series)
    • Eligible mid-range devices
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

If you own a Galaxy S25, S24, S23, S22, or any Z Fold/Z Flip models from 2022 onward, Android 16 is headed your way. The update should begin rolling out to Samsung devices shortly after Google’s June release, with flagship models leading the deployment.

For users with older devices like the S21 or Z Fold 3, you’ll continue receiving security updates, but Android 16 may be beyond reach. Stay tuned for Samsung’s One UI 8 beta program to preview the upcoming features and ensure your device is ready for the next evolution in Galaxy software.

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Android

Android 16 QPR1 Beta brings customizable quick settings tiles: A preview of One UI 8?

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Android 16 Developer Preview

Google is moving at full speed. I am expecting the same from Samsung as the Android 16 QPR1 beta is already here, and we are still waiting for the first official word about the Android 16-based One UI 8 beta program.

Regardless of this waiting, Google’s latest Android 16 QPR1 Beta introduces one of the most requested features: resizable Quick Settings tiles.

Google’s Android 16 is expected to come next month, but it won’t bring the full Material You “Expressive” redesign, expect it to arrive with the September Pixel Feature Drop. However, you can enjoy the UI improvements by joining the QPR beta channel (Pixel device exclusive).

Resizable Quick Settings:

In this beta, you now have the ability to customize the Quick Settings panel with resizable tiles. This long-awaited feature allows for better space utilization and personalization of your notification shade. We tried this on a Google Pixel device running Android 16 QPR1 beta.

How does it work?

  1. Access the edit mode by tapping the pencil icon in the Quick Settings panel.
  2. Tap any tile to reveal a draggable handle.
  3. Resize tiles between the standard 2×1 size and the new compact 1×1 size.
  4. Create your ideal layout with up to 16 tiles in the first panel (compared to just 8 previously).

Android 16 QPR1 Beta Quick Panel Sammy Fans

Note: The smaller 1×1 tiles display only the function’s icon, omitting text labels to maximize space efficiency. You get a “Reset” button at the very bottom.

The update also brings improved organization to your Quick Settings management. This easy categorization makes finding and adding specific tiles much faster than scrolling through an unorganized list. Unused tiles are now logically grouped into categories, including:

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  • Connectivity
  • Utilities
  • Display
  • Privacy
  • Accessibility
  • From system apps

Apart from this specific feature, the update adds several other notable improvements:

  • Redesigned brightness slider
  • Updated internet tile icon
  • Refined typography
  • New Settings app icons
  • Enhanced animations and blur effects

Do we have these features in One UI 7? Could we see this in One UI 8:

Samsung’s One UI 7, based on Android 15, does not support resizable Quick Settings tiles—a feature introduced in Android 16 QPR1 Beta. Users cannot adjust tile dimensions (e.g., from 1×1 to 2×1) in the current One UI implementation.

Available customization options include:

  • Rearranging tiles (tap and hold to reposition)
  • Toggling between split and combined panel layouts

The architectural difference between One UI 7’s split panel design and Android 16’s unified Quick Settings experience is notable. One UI 7 also lacks Android 16’s Material 3 Expressive features, including background blur effects.

For reference, Android 16 QPR1 Beta maintains a unified Quick Settings and notification shade, requiring two distinct pull-down gestures—one for notifications and a second for Quick Settings access.

If you are seeking resizable Quick Settings tiles will likely need to wait for One UI 8, which is expected to bring Android 16’s expanded customization capabilities.

I am curious about your thoughts on these latest features. Please share your opinion on my X profile @SamsungSWUpdate.

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Opinion

Why the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is a hard pass for me and many

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Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge unboxing

As a long-time Samsung enthusiast and a proud user of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, I was buzzing with excitement when I heard about the Galaxy S25 Edge first time. Samsung’s promise of an ultra-slim flagship with cutting-edge tech felt like a bold move to shake up the smartphone market. But after watching the launch event and getting a quick hands-on with the device, my enthusiasm fizzled out. The S25 Edge, despite its sleek design, feels like a misstep—overpriced, overhyped, and poorly promoted. Here’s why this phone misses the “recommendation”.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge?

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is the latest addition to the S25 lineup, which includes the base S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. Launched in May 2025, it’s marketed as a premium, ultra-slim flagship with a 5.8mm titanium frame, a 6.7-inch QHD+ AMOLED display, and a 200MP main camera. It’s powered by the same Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset as its siblings but without some features, like a telephoto lens and a larger battery. Priced around $1,099, it sits between the S25+ ($999) and the S25 Ultra ($1,299), aiming to carve out a niche for users who want a big screen in a featherlight package.

Samsung positions the S25 Edge as a direct competitor to Apple’s rumored iPhone 17 Air and Google’s Pixel 9 Pro, emphasizing its thinness and premium build. But while it’s undeniably sleek, the compromises it makes leave it struggling to stand out in a crowded market.

Questionable Promotional Strategy:

Samsung’s marketing for the S25 Edge has been a letdown, leaning heavily on its slim design while glossing over its shortcomings. The campaign revolves around buzzwords like “revolutionary thinness” and “premium elegance,” with glossy ads showing the phone slipping effortlessly into pockets. But the messaging feels empty. Samsung wants us to believe the S25 Edge is an essential upgrade, yet it fails to explain why we need a thinner phone at the cost of key features.

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Compare this to Samsung’s past campaigns, like the S21 series, which highlighted bold colors, versatile cameras, and 5G connectivity to appeal to a wide audience. Or the S24 Ultra’s launch, which leaned into Galaxy AI features like real-time translation and photo editing, giving users tangible reasons to upgrade. Then, there is S25 Edge’s ads, by contrast, feel like they are selling a concept—thinness—rather than a phone. There’s little focus on how the slim design improves daily use or why it’s worth the premium price. Social media discussion reflects this disconnection with users and questions the phone’s value.

Samsung also missed a chance to target specific audiences, like mobile gamers or content creators, who might appreciate the lightweight design. Instead, the broad “everyone needs this” approach feels forced, especially when the S25 Ultra offers more for just $200 extra (well, you can get the Ultra for less than the S25 Edge if you go for a better deal).

Overpriced:

At $1,099, the Galaxy S25 Edge is a tough sell. Let’s break it down. The S25+ costs $999 and offers a near-identical 6.7-inch AMOLED display, the same Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, a larger 4,900mAh battery, and a telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The S25 Ultra, at $1,299, throws in a 50MP ultrawide camera, dual telephoto lenses (3x and 5x), a 6.9-inch display, and an S Pen. Meanwhile, the S25 Edge skimps on the telephoto lens, has a measly 3,900mAh battery, and uses a 12MP ultrawide camera that’s outclassed by the Ultra’s 50MP sensor.

Compared to competitors, the S25 Edge looks even less appealing. The Google Pixel 9 Pro, priced at $999, offers a 6.3-inch LTPO AMOLED display, a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP telephoto with 5x zoom, plus a 4,700mAh battery. The iPhone 16 Pro, at $999, boasts a 6.3-inch display, a 48MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 5x telephoto, with a battery that lasts longer than the Edge’s. Both competitors deliver more (technically) robust camera systems and better battery life for less money.

The “premium tag” for the Edge’s slim design and titanium frame doesn’t justify the price. The new Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 are nice, but the S25+ uses similar materials for $100 less. The HOP 3.0 display tech, which allows finer refresh rate adjustments, is a minor upgrade over the S25+’s LTPO panel. For $1,099, you’re paying for aesthetics, not performance. As an S25 Ultra user, I’d rather spend the extra $200 (without the offer and discount) for a phone that doesn’t compromise on cameras or battery life.

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Do we really need the Galaxy S25 Edge?

Samsung wants us to believe the S25 Edge is a must-have, but it’s hard to see why. The slim design is the star of the show, but does it solve a real problem? Most users don’t complain about their phones being too thick—the S25+ is 7.3mm and feels perfectly fine. The Edge’s 5.8mm profile is impressive, but it comes at the cost of a 3,900mAh battery that’s worryingly small for a 6.7-inch display. Early tests suggest it struggles to last a full day of heavy use, especially with power-hungry apps like games or video editors.

The 200MP main camera is a highlight, borrowed from the S25 Ultra, but the lack of a telephoto lens is a dealbreaker for anyone who loves zooming in for photos or videos. The 12MP ultrawide is still usable but lags behind the 50MP ultrawide on the Ultra and the 48MP ultrawides on the Pixel 9 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro. Features like Galaxy AI’s “Now Brief” and “AI Select” are neat but available across the S25 lineup, so these are not exclusive to the Edge.

The slim design might appeal to users who prioritize portability, like those who keep their phone in tight pockets or prefer a lightweight device for one-handed use. But for most people, the standard S25 or S25+ offers the same performance and better battery life without sacrificing camera versatility and a heavy price. The Edge feels like a niche experiment rather than a necessary addition to the lineup.

What users are saying:

The online reaction to the S25 Edge has been lukewarm at best, with many users echoing my disappointment. Here’s a sampling of opinions from early adopters and average consumers:

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What users are saying:

Jake, tech enthusiast

I was hyped for the S25 Edge, but $1,099 for a phone with no telephoto lens and a tiny battery? My S25 Ultra takes better zoomed shots and lasts longer. Pass.

Sarah, casual user

It’s super thin, sure, but I can’t afford $1,100 for a phone that feels like a downgrade from the S25+. Samsung’s pricing is getting out of hand.

Mike, photographer

The 200MP camera is great, but the ultrawide is meh, and no telephoto means I’m sticking with my S24 Ultra. Why pay more for less?

Emily, student

I love the look of the Edge, but the battery life scares me. My base S25 lasts all day, and it’s way cheaper. Not worth it.

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Chris, gamer

The slim design is cool, but it gets warm when I play games, and the battery drains fast. My S25 Ultra handles gaming so much better.

My Opinion:

As a Galaxy S25 Ultra user, I am spoiled by its robust hardware, and the S25 Edge feels like a downgrade in every way that matters. The 3,900mAh battery is a major concern. Running resource-intensive apps like Adobe Lightroom or Call of Duty Mobile on my Ultra is smooth, with its 5,000mAh battery lasting through hours of editing or gaming. The Edge, with its smaller battery and thinner vapor chamber for cooling, struggles to keep up. Early reviews note thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions, which is a red flag for power users.

The lack of a telephoto lens is another head-scratcher. My Ultra has 3x and 5x telephoto lenses; the Edge relies on pixel binning for up to 10x zoom, but it can’t match the clarity of optical zoom. For a phone priced so close to the Ultra, this feels like a cheap shortcut. The 12MP ultrawide camera sounds downgraded in comparison to the Ultra’s 50MP sensor, especially in low light.

The slim design is undeniably cool, but it’s a gimmick that doesn’t justify the trade-offs. My S25 Ultra feels premium and delivers on every front—cameras, battery, performance. The Edge sacrifices too much to chase a trend that Apple might perfect with the iPhone 17 Air.

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Recommandation: A Big NO

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is a classic case of style over substance. Samsung’s promotional strategy hypes its thinness without addressing why it’s worth $1,099, leaving users confused. Priced too close to the”real” flagship S25 Ultra and outclassed by competitors, it’s hard to justify the cost. The slim design is neat but not necessary, and the hardware limitations—small battery, no telephoto lens, underwhelming ultrawide—make it a tough sell. User feedback mirrors my disappointment, with many calling it overpriced and underwhelming.

As someone who was initially thrilled about the S25 Edge, I am now firmly in the “no thanks” camp. My S25 Ultra remains the king of Samsung’s lineup, and for anyone considering the Edge, I’d say save your money or go for the Plus or Ultra instead. Samsung needs to rethink its approach if it wants the Edge to be more than a flashy footnote in its flagship story.

Hey Sammy Fans, what do you think of the Galaxy S25 Edge? Love the ultra-thin design, or are the battery and missing telephoto a dealbreaker? Share your thoughts by DM on my X handle @SamsungSWUpdate.

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Technology

Samsung’s latest patent reveals a foldable gaming controller

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Samsung is taking big steps in the world of gaming technology. On March 25, 2025, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office approved a Samsung design patent 1067913 for a new gaming controller with a foldable screen.

Earlier this year, Samsung showed off its Flex Gaming prototype at the Mobile World Congress (MWC). The Flex Gaming console looks like a Nintendo Switch but has the added feature of a screen that folds in the middle. It’s clear that Samsung has plans for foldable gaming devices.

The patent for Samsung’s Gaming Remote Controller doesn’t give us full details on how the controller works, but it includes design images that show what the foldable controller might look like. The images suggest a sleek and portable controller design.

Samsung Foldable Gaming Remote controller patent

Image via Patently Apple

Moreover, it can fold up for easy storage but unfold to offer a larger display for gaming. This could offer gamers a new level of flexibility and convenience.

There’s not much information available, but the idea of a foldable controller opens up exciting possibilities. This new design shows that Samsung is thinking of making gaming more flexible and portable in the future.

More details about this foldable gaming controller are expected to appear soon. This patent hints that we might soon see more creative and portable gaming devices from Samsung. Stay tuned for more information.

Samsung patents a 360-degree foldable smartphone

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Samsung unveils Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo for speedy, smart laundry

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Samsung Bespoke AI laundry Vented combo

Samsung has introduced the Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo, an all-in-one washer and dryer that makes laundry faster and more convenient. This new model can wash and dry a full load in just 68 minutes using the Super Speed cycle.

With a 5.3 cu. ft. drum, the Bespoke AI Laundry can handle larger loads at once. Its vented design quickly dries clothes by using heat and a fan to remove moisture.

Samsung Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo offers several smart features to make laundry easier. Samsung’s AI Bubble technology mixes water, air, and detergent to create a foam that cleans clothes more effectively. The Steam Wash cycle also helps remove tough stains by releasing steam to deeply clean fabrics.

This model also comes with AI Opti Wash and Dry technology. It automatically detects the dirtiness and type of fabric in each load and adjusts the settings for the best wash and dry.

Samsung Bespoke AI laundry Vented combo

Moreover, the Flex Auto Dispense System automatically dispenses detergent or fabric softener. The Auto Open Door helps clothes dry fully by releasing moisture after each cycle.

The Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo is ENERGY STAR certified, which means it uses less energy. It also has an AI Energy Mode that reduces energy use by up to 30%. Additionally, the Less Microfiber cycle helps reduce microfibers that could harm the environment.

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The machine can be controlled remotely through the SmartThings app. It allows users to start, stop, or check the status of their laundry from their phone.

The Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo is available for pre-order in the US. The company will launch it in Canada and Mexico in 2025. It comes in two colors – Dark Steel and Brushed Black.

Samsung introduces Bespoke AI Jet Ultra for smarter cleaning experience

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