The New Wave of Smartphone Software: One UI 7, iOS 26, and Material 3

Smartphone software has evolved dramatically in recent years, and it feels like a race to redefine user experience. Samsung, Apple, and Google are all reshaping their platforms, each focusing on making their devices more polished, more enjoyable, and more distinctive.

For Samsung, the rollout of One UI 7 has been challenging. What was supposed to be a pivotal upgrade for Galaxy phones quickly became a source of frustration for many. Upon release, some users in South Korea found their phones unable to unlock after the installation. This critical error delayed the global launch. The situation was compounded by overall dissatisfaction on social media. Despite introducing a fresh design for the app drawer, notifications, and other elements, the experience felt bittersweet. The changes lacked polish and failed to justify the anticipation.

One UI 8, which is already in its beta phase, aims to fix that. It appears to be a smaller, more incremental update that refines the design, smooths out rough edges, and improves the overall experience. Its release is anticipated to coincide with the launch of Samsung’s new foldables, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, making it closer than many might expect.

Apple, meanwhile, is making bold moves with iOS 26. This version introduces a new “Liquid Glass” aesthetic that adds dynamic light refraction to icons and the home screen. The approach is visually striking, although its readability has been contested. The design is still a work in progress, and it’s no surprise the beta isn’t publicly available yet. The final version is expected sometime in September and aims to deliver a balanced, elegant experience that feels fresh. Interestingly, the original camera icon has returned, a nostalgic nod that many have noticed and appreciated.

While iOS 26 is making waves, its biggest changes seem to be reserved for iPadOS and macOS, aligning the version numbers across platforms. The goal is a more seamless experience across devices. However, as with any beta, the changes remain a work in progress until their official release.

Then there’s Google, which has reshaped the Android experience with Material 3. This latest version delivers a truly immersive experience that goes far beyond cosmetic changes. The Material 3 design language shines with its responsive animations, smooth haptics, and a design that feels more natural and tactile. From scrolling to taps and swipes, every interaction feels precisely tuned, making the experience feel fresh and exciting.

Google’s focus is not limited to smartphones. The company is also extending its Material 3 design to the Pixel Watch, making better use of its rounded display for a more polished and functional experience. This focus on creating seamless interactions across form factors marks an important shift in mobile design.

This evolution in software arrives at a critical point for the mobile industry. Hardware has plateaued in recent years, and the biggest advances are now happening in the software experience. The race is no longer about raw specs or camera megapixels — it’s about creating a seamless, enjoyable user experience across devices.

The long-term benefits of this shift are significant. Longer software support windows from companies like Samsung and Google mean devices can stay relevant for longer. This approach improves resale value, reduces waste, and encourages loyalty. Customers can now feel confident that their phones will evolve and stay current throughout their lifespan.

More brands are starting to recognize the value of long-term software support. Oppo, Xiaomi, Honor, and Vivo have made significant strides in this area, and this trend is expected to continue. Even Motorola, a brand that has kept a lower profile in recent years, has the potential to make a strong comeback if it embraces this shift and delivers a fresh, compelling user experience.

Smartphone software has entered a new era. The launch of One UI 7 and 8, iOS 26, and Material 3 demonstrates that software can now be as exciting and innovative as hardware. The focus is no longer on specs alone — it’s about making devices feel new, exciting, and worth holding onto for longer.

This is a pivotal moment for mobile tech, and it’s an exciting time for both hardware enthusiasts and everyday users alike. As the biggest names in the industry redefine their platforms, one thing is certain: the future of smartphones is brighter, more seamless, and more user-focused than ever before.