Being a phone reviewer, I understand the crucial role software plays in the overall user experience. While top-notch hardware is essential, lackluster software can ruin the entire phone experience. Despite most phones running on Android 15, the software performance varies significantly across different brands.
Thoughtfully designed software can greatly enhance productivity and enjoyment while using a phone. Among the plethora of companies offering feature-rich user interfaces, Google and Samsung stand out for their polished and intuitive UI on Pixel and Galaxy phones.
Previously, I favored Google Pixel phones for their software experience. However, after trying out One UI 7 on the Galaxy S25+, my preference has shifted towards Samsung. Here are four reasons why I believe One UI 7 offers a superior experience compared to Pixel UI.
A home screen to be proud of
The visual appeal of the software is crucial for a pleasant user experience. While the Pixel UI is functional, One UI 7 excels in aesthetics. Samsung’s widgets and home screen design strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics, unlike Google’s focus on functionality over design.
Comparing the home screens of Pixel 9 Pro XL and Galaxy S25+, the design superiority of Samsung is evident. The ability to customize the home screen effortlessly and remove unnecessary elements gives Samsung an edge in terms of design.
Setting me up for success
The quick settings menu is a frequently used feature on phones. Samsung’s One UI 7 offers a seamless experience with quick access to essential settings by swiping down from the top-right corner. In contrast, Google’s approach to quick settings involves additional taps, making the process more cumbersome.
Google combines the notification tray and quick settings menu, leading to a cluttered interface with limited access to settings. Samsung’s implementation of quick settings simplifies the user experience and enhances usability.
My favourite-ever use of AI
Artificial intelligence plays a significant role in both Samsung and Google phones. However, One UI 7’s AI-powered search function in Settings stands out for its efficiency in locating specific settings. The contextual search results in One UI 7 make it easier to find settings compared to Pixel UI.
One UI 7’s intuitive search functionality enhances the user experience by providing relevant results even with vague search terms. In contrast, Pixel UI’s search feature may require specific terminology to yield accurate results.
Need a cheap phone?
While Google focuses on quality over quantity in its phone offerings, Samsung’s One UI 7 extends to budget-friendly devices like the Galaxy A series. The accessibility of One UI 7 features on affordable devices like the Galaxy A16 sets Samsung apart from Google in catering to a wider range of users.
But wait!
Despite the advantages of One UI 7, Samsung devices may come with pre-installed apps that some users may find redundant. Additionally, Google Pixel phones prioritize software updates for their devices, ensuring timely access to the latest features and security enhancements.
While Samsung’s software updates may be delayed compared to Google, the additional functionality and design elements offered by One UI 7 make it a compelling choice for users seeking a feature-rich Android experience. Samsung’s evolution from TouchWiz to One UI 7 showcases its commitment to enhancing the user experience.
