Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 owners woke up to a notification this week promising a software update—a moment that initially sparked excitement among early adopters of the company’s latest foldables. But that enthusiasm quickly turned to frustration as users realized this wasn’t the highly anticipated Android 14-based One UI 6.1 upgrade they’d been expecting. Instead, the update delivered little more than routine security patches and minor bug fixes, leaving many to wonder: Where’s the real upgrade?
What’s Actually in the Update?
The firmware, labeled F946BXXS1AXD3 for the Z Fold6 and F731BXXS1AXD3 for the Z Flip6, includes the July 2024 Android security patch. Samsung’s official changelog mentions “improved system stability” and “general device performance enhancements,” but early adopters report no noticeable changes to features, camera performance, or multitasking capabilities. For a device lineup marketed as cutting-edge, the lack of meaningful improvements feels like a missed opportunity—especially when competitors like Google and OnePlus are rolling out AI-driven tools and interface overhauls for their flagships.
“I was hoping for better split-screen multitasking or even the rumored Galaxy AI features,” said Reddit user Fold6Fanatic in a thread discussing the update. “This feels like a placeholder.”
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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6
Why the Disappointment?
The frustration stems from Samsung’s track record. Last year, the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Flip5 received their Android 14 update just three months after launch. This time, with the Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 hitting shelves in late July, users expected a faster timeline. Leaks had also hinted at One UI 6.1 bringing foldable-specific optimizations, such as enhanced taskbar customization and smoother app transitions.
So, why the delay? Insiders suggest Samsung is prioritizing stability for its niche foldable audience, given the hardware complexity of bendable displays and hinge mechanisms. A source close to Samsung’s software team told GSM Arena that “major OS updates for foldables require extensive testing,” but declined to provide a timeline for the One UI 6.1 rollout.
Should Users Hold Out Hope?
While the wait continues, analysts argue that Samsung can’t afford to drag its feet. “Foldables are still a premium, experimental category,” says tech analyst Maria Gonzalez. “Buyers expect premium software support to match the price tag.” The Z Fold6 starts at 1,899,andtheZFlip6at1,899,andtheZFlip6at1,099—prices that arguably demand faster, more impactful updates.
There’s also growing pressure from competitors. Google’s Pixel Fold recently introduced a suite of AI-powered editing tools, while OnePlus’s Open foldable gained praise for its polished OxygenOS experience. If Samsung doesn’t step up, it risks losing its early lead in the foldable market.
The Bottom Line
For now, Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 users are stuck weighing their options: cling to the promise of future updates or jump ship to rivals offering fresher software experiences. Samsung’s silence on the matter isn’t helping. While the company’s hardware remains industry-leading, its software strategy for foldables feels increasingly out of step with user expectations.
Until then, all eyes are on Samsung’s next move. Will the next update finally deliver? Or will it be another letdown?
For more details, read the full report on GSM Arena.
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