What to know

  • Samsung's latest One UI 7 update introduces advanced AI features, but not all will be available for older Galaxy devices due to hardware limitations.
  • Features like "Now Brief" require powerful on-device processing and are exclusive to newer models like the Galaxy S25 series.
  • Cloud-based AI features, such as "Circle to Search," will remain accessible to older and budget-friendly devices.
  • Samsung continues to focus on balancing innovative AI tools with broader device compatibility.

Samsung Indonesia revealed today that some of the cutting-edge AI features in its new One UI 7 software update will not be available for older Galaxy devices. The decision stems from the hardware requirements of certain features, which rely heavily on advanced Neural Processing Units (NPUs) found in newer chipsets like the Snapdragon 8 Elite, used in the Galaxy S25 series.

One such feature, "Now Brief," is designed to provide users with tailored information based on their daily schedules. This feature leverages Samsung's Personal Data Engine for on-device processing, which demands significant computational power. As a result, older models such as the Galaxy S24, S23, and S22 series may not support this functionality.

However, not all hope is lost for users of older devices. Samsung has ensured that some AI capabilities, particularly those relying on cloud processing, will still be accessible. For instance, "Circle to Search," which enables users to search by circling text or objects on the screen, is expected to roll out widely since it relies primarily on server-side resources rather than on-device hardware.

Samsung's software chief Sally Jeong explained that the development of One UI 7 has been in progress for two to three years, focusing on creating a seamless and personalized user experience. While the company aims to bring as many features as possible to older devices, hardware constraints mean that some innovations will remain exclusive to newer models.

This move highlights a growing trend in smartphone software development where advanced features increasingly depend on powerful hardware. While this ensures optimal performance for flagship devices, it also creates limitations for older or mid-range models. Samsung's approach of prioritizing cloud-based AI features for broader accessibility reflects its effort to balance innovation with inclusivity.