Samsung’s One UI 6.1 Update Widens Galaxy AI Reach

Samsung has initiated the rollout of its highly anticipated One UI 6.1 update, extending the suite of Galaxy AI features to a wider range of its devices. Initially launched in Korea for older Galaxy phones, this update has now reached U.S. users, starting with the Galaxy S22 series, Flip 4, Fold 4, and Tab S8 devices. Samsung is also reaching out to Galaxy users via email, providing details about the features they can expect to see.

The highlight of this update is the expansion of Samsung’s AI features to phones up to three years old. Previously exclusive to the S24 series, these features, including Circle to Search, Chat Assist, Interpreter, Live Translate, Note Assist, Transcript Assist, Browsing Assist, Generative Edit, Edit Suggestion, and AI-Generated Wallpaper, are now available to a broader range of users. However, older models such as the Galaxy S21 series, Flip 3, and Fold 3 will only receive two AI features: Circle to Search and Chat Assist. This suggests that these devices might be the last to receive updates for performance reasons, particularly as the Galaxy S20 falls outside Samsung’s usual Android update window.

While Samsung has confirmed that the AI features will be free until “the end” of 2025, it has left open the possibility of charging for them in the future. This raises questions about the long-term availability and pricing of these features, especially for users of newer devices like the Galaxy S22 series, who may only enjoy full free access for 18 months.

The move to potentially charge for AI features also prompts speculation about the future of Android updates on older phones. Will Samsung allow users to pay for AI features even after their devices are no longer eligible for updates? The company’s plans beyond the 2025 deadline for free AI features remain to be seen, but it is clear that Samsung is committed to enhancing the value of its older handsets while providing buyers of newer models with additional incentives.