Samsung’s One UI 6.1 update has been rolling out to recent Galaxy devices, bringing a wave of artificial intelligence (Galaxy AI) powered features. But if you own a Galaxy S21, Z Fold 3, or Z Flip 3, hold your horses – you’re only getting a taste of the AI goodness.
What’s the Update About (Galaxy AI)?
One UI 6.1 introduces a suite of up to 10 Galaxy AI features, designed to enhance communication, productivity, and more. These features leverage a combination of on-device and cloud-based processing to offer functionalities like real-time translation, improved search, and intelligent assistance.
Why the Limited Features for Older Devices?
While the S21, Z Fold 3, and Z Flip 3 are still powerful devices, Samsung has decided to limit their access to only two Galaxy AI features:
- Circle to Search with Google: This feature simplifies web searches by letting you draw a circle around an area of interest on your screen and initiating a Google search based on that selection.
- Chat Assist: Chat Assist helps you communicate more effectively by offering features like message tone adjustment and real-time translation in up to 13 languages.
Samsung hasn’t explicitly stated the reason behind this limitation. It could be due to hardware constraints in these models compared to newer flagships, or a strategic decision to push users towards upgrades.
What are You Missing Out On?
The excluded features include:
- Live Translate: Provides voice and text translation during phone calls.
- Interpreter: Enables real-time conversation translation through a split-screen interface, perfect for traveling.
- Note Assist: Analyzes handwritten notes and suggests actions or calendar entries.
- Browsing Assist: Offers features like smart webpage summarization and automatic language translation.
- Generative Edit: Uses AI to generate different versions of photos, like changing backgrounds or clothing.
Is There Any Hope?
There’s no official word on whether Samsung will expand AI features for the S21, Z Fold 3, and Z Flip 3 in the future. However, the company has committed to providing these features “free until the end of 2025” which suggests ongoing development and potential future inclusion.
Should You Be Upset?
It depends on how heavily you rely on AI features. Circle to Search and Chat Assist are undoubtedly useful, but if you were looking forward to functionalities like Live Translate or Interpreter, you might be disappointed.
Ultimately, the decision of whether this limited access is a deal-breaker depends on your individual needs and priorities.
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The upcoming One UI 6.1 update for the Samsung Galaxy S21, Galaxy Z Fold 3, and Z Flip 3 brings with it a selection of Galaxy AI features aimed at enhancing performance and photography capabilities. While only two Galaxy AI features are expected to be included in this update, they represent significant strides in optimizing the user experience and leveraging artificial intelligence to deliver tangible benefits to users. As Samsung continues to innovate and refine its software offerings, users can anticipate further enhancements in future updates, ensuring that their devices remain at the forefront of technological advancement.
