According to technology experts, these are the 3 reasons why Apple and Samsung phones are criticized.
Apart from Apple and Samsung phones , users have more attractive options. When compared to the great smartphones from phone manufacturers like OnePlus and Nothing Phones or even Google, the iPhone and Galaxy are clearly inferior in many aspects.
Illustration photo.
Here are 3 reasons why iPhone and Galaxy are criticized by many fans.
1. AI is not everything
In recent years, one of the big focuses has been AI. Both Apple and Samsung have invested a lot of marketing muscle into Apple Intelligence and Galaxy AI.
Samsung has Galaxy AI while Apple has Apple Intelligence.
While all these features are impressive, AI doesn’t really have much use in everyday life—with the exception of Siri. In other words, customers who buy a new phone are focused on the hardware.
Even if AI is something that can influence purchasing decisions, Apple and Samsung aren't the only ones in the game. For example, Google Gemini will work just as well on the Google Pixel 9 Pro as it does on the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
2. Slow hardware innovation
One of the main factors that users consider when buying a new phone is hardware, a concern in recent years as companies have shifted their focus to AI and chips, ignoring cameras and screens.
OnePlus' flagship is highly rated while being affordable.
Of course, AI will allow companies to reduce costs, but there are still limits! Judging by the review, the latest Galaxy S25 still has most of the same camera setup as the Galaxy S23, which is crazy.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 series offers a new Camera Control button. This makes it easy to launch the camera, but there are already other ways to do it. Users can also use Camera Control to access Visual Intelligence, making it easy to look up information using a live view of the camera. However, this is not a feature that will drive users to buy the phone.
In contrast, other brands have major design changes and some notable upgrades in key areas.
3. Price is too high
Essentially, both companies charge high prices for their devices, even when they're not on par with their "competitors."
OnePlus Open is the best foldable phone.
For example, in the foldable smartphone segment, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 is a quality phone but not the best. According to experts, the OnePlus Open is the best foldable phone and has a lower price.
In the affordable segment, Apple offers the iPhone 16e, which costs up to 16.99 million VND. However, users can buy the very powerful Nothing Phone (2a) Plus for much less. This smartphone offers a smooth 120Hz display, an ultra-wide-angle camera, double the internal storage and longer battery life.
The problem is that if Apple and Samsung want users to upgrade their devices regularly, they need to offer more than just a few minimal changes. This is what they need to do if they want to keep or increase the price of their products.