Samsung recently released the highly anticipated One UI 6.1 update for older devices, two months following its debut on the Galaxy S24 series. The first phase of the rollout included flagship phones and tablets launched in 2023. However, the second phase, which started a few days ago, has been met with some unexpected issues.
Owners of the Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra in Korea have reported problems accessing their devices following installing the One UI 6.1 update. Some devices are failing to boot or unable to unlock following reaching the lockscreen. While these issues are not uncommon with major software updates, it is concerning that users of pre-2023 devices outside of Korea have not yet received the update.
In light of these issues, it is crucial for Galaxy phone and tablet owners eligible for the One UI 6.1 update to take certain steps before installing it.
First step before installing One UI 6.1: Make a data backup
Prior to any major OS update, it is always recommended to make a data backup. This is even more important when installing One UI 6.1. Fortunately, there are several ways to back up your data, including making a temporary cloud backup using your Samsung account from the Device care » Maintenance mode menu.
For more information on making temporary cloud backups on your Samsung account, visit this link. Additionally, our preparation guide for One UI 6.0 provides more backup methods and other useful recommendations, although the backup aspect is the most critical.
Disable screen lock/bypass the lock screen
In today’s world, it is rare to find individuals who do not secure their phones with a password, PIN, or fingerprint. However, given the reported issue of being unable to unlock the device following installing One UI 6.1, it is advisable to disable the lock screen before proceeding with the update.
In your phone’s Settings » Security and privacy » Lock screen » Screen lock menu, you can change the screen lock type. Selecting the “None” screen lock type will disable the lock screen and allow your phone to boot straight to the home screen.
Keep in mind that removing the screen lock will erase any registered fingerprints, patterns, or PINs. However, this inconvenience can be easily overcome by re-registering and creating these security measures once One UI 6.1 is successfully installed and your phone has booted up.
The implications of the reported issues with the One UI 6.1 update are significant for Samsung and its users. With the increasing demand for regular software updates and new features, consumers have high expectations for smooth and error-free experiences. Samsung’s delayed release of One UI 6.1 for older devices and the subsequent issues faced by Galaxy S22 owners highlight the challenges involved in providing seamless updates across a wide range of devices.
This situation also raises important questions regarding the testing and quality assurance processes undertaken by smartphone manufacturers. While it is understandable that unforeseen issues may arise, users expect their devices to function properly following an update. Implementing robust testing methods and incorporating user feedback throughout the development process can go a long way in ensuring a more reliable and bug-free software update.
In the broader context of the tech industry, these challenges underscore the importance of device compatibility and user experience. As new software versions are released, manufacturers must ensure that they can be seamlessly integrated into various hardware configurations. This requires close collaboration between software developers and device manufacturers to address potential issues and optimize performance.
Furthermore, in an era where smartphones have become essential tools for communication, work, and entertainment, it is crucial for users to be aware of the potential risks and challenges that come with software updates. Taking precautionary measures such as backing up data and disabling screen locks can help minimize the impact of any unexpected issues.
Looking ahead, the industry should prioritize user-centric approaches to software development. This entails actively engaging with users, collecting feedback, and conducting thorough testing to ensure updates are not only feature-rich but also reliable and stable.
As for Samsung, addressing the reported issues promptly and providing a satisfactory resolution will be critical in maintaining trust and loyalty among its user base. Communication and transparency throughout the troubleshooting and resolution process are vital to reassure users and demonstrate a commitment to their satisfaction.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by Samsung with the One UI 6.1 update serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in delivering seamless software updates to a diverse range of devices. The lessons learned from this experience can help shape future strategies for device compatibility, quality assurance, and user-centric software development. By prioritizing these areas, manufacturers can create a more positive and reliable user experience in the ever-evolving landscape of smartphone technology.