I Switched from Samsung’s Default Launcher Post-One UI 8.5—And Many Others Have Too!

In recent years, I’ve been an avid supporter of Samsung’s One UI interface on Galaxy devices. However, my sentiment changed with the launch of version 8.5. I’m not alone in this; numerous users are moving away from the default home screen, opting instead for custom launchers and alternative applications. What did Samsung get wrong in this update?

One UI 8.5 is not a complete disaster

Numerous inconsistencies have emerged

I have always appreciated the design of Android, but Samsung’s adaptations have caught my eye, particularly with their sleek widgets, streamlined status icons, and minimalist app designs. However, the recent updates have felt more like an unnecessary overhaul. Features that previously extended to the edges of the screen now have uncomfortable gaps, and folder icons in My Files are overloaded with gradients. The Contacts app features oversized contact cards, a design choice not seen elsewhere, while the Clocks app includes an odd glow effect.

In my opinion, the best-designed Samsung applications remain those that have not undergone significant changes. Samsung Music, for example, has been relatively untouched and appears visually appealing as a result. While the recent update is far from a complete failure like Apple’s Liquid Glass, it certainly doesn’t feel like an enhancement. Instead, a sense of inconsistency pervades, prompting memories of past software iterations like TouchWiz.

The push for AI continues

Focus on Gemini, Galaxy AI, and Bixby

Many leading smartphone manufacturers have recently branded their devices as AI-centric, but only a few have genuinely embraced this direction. Others have implemented superficial features, like a dedicated physical button for AI chatbots. Samsung, however, is integrating AI more prominently in One UI with each successive release.

Now, upon opening various applications like the app drawer or calendar, you’ll encounter a floating search bar at the bottom of the screen—one of the most notable updates in this release. Samsung believes that highlighting search as a utility for AI makes its capabilities more accessible. Unfortunately, this addition has cluttered the interface and made it more challenging to find the search function within apps, as it is sometimes smaller and less accessible than before.

Samsung’s latest iteration of Bixby, built on the Perplexity model, presents mixed results. While it is more conversational, it lacks reliability. Previously, Bixby provided a dependable means of managing both my phone and smart home devices. Now, as is common with AI-driven tools, its performance is unpredictable, frustrating users who valued its previous utility.

One UI 8.5 does not address key issues

Several aspects of Samsung software require improvement

Recently, I exchanged my Samsung Galaxy Fold 6 for a Moto Razr Fold, largely due to the superior hardware and software of Motorola. Motorola’s approach to Android seems optimal to me: it maintains stock Android while adding complementary features that integrate well with the overall design. As a fan of foldable devices, what won me over was Motorola’s multitasking capabilities. While Samsung provides multiple multitasking options, the experience isn’t as smooth. Other foldables are executing this feature more effectively.

Motorola allows for three apps to be displayed side by side or for users to rotate through apps in a carousel, enhancing workflow significantly for those who use their devices for productivity.

Samsung used to lead the pack in this area. The Z Fold’s multitasking options were innovative, and DeX has proven to be a reliable tool for almost a decade. However, as competitors have improved their workflows, Samsung appears to be lagging behind despite making some refinements in One UI’s quick settings.

Customer tolerance has limits

My new Motorola device includes AI features, but they are discreetly activated by a physical button, something I’ve never felt the need to use. For users, this is beneficial; the functionality exists if desired, but it can be easily overlooked.

From a business perspective, this approach may indicate poor design choices. Companies want users to engage with AI, yet the presence of a seldom-used button suggests a disconnect. Samsung’s solution is to prioritize AI functionalities in One UI 8.5 while risking user departure—the alternative being that users may replace Samsung’s software with simpler options, like the Niagara Launcher, which appears to be a better fit for managing Samsung’s bloated interface.