Samsung’s executive chairman, Lee Jae-yong, has expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s mobile division, Samsung MX (Mobile eXperience), following criticism regarding the similarity of Samsung’s new product designs to those of Apple.
Reports from Korean news outlet Ajunews reveal that Lee demanded a reevaluation of Samsung MX’s plans in response to negative reactions on social media and in tech news outlets. These criticisms focused on the alleged Apple-like designs of Samsung’s latest devices, causing internal unrest within the company.
The controversy intensified after the recent Galaxy Unpacked event, where Samsung revealed new products, including the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Buds 3 series. These announcements, meant to showcase Samsung’s innovations, were overshadowed by widespread criticism accusing the company of mimicking Apple’s designs.
Prominent tech reviewers and commentators, including Quinn Nelson of Snazzy Labs and Andrew O’Hara of Apple Insider, voiced their disappointment with Samsung’s perceived lack of originality.
The backlash extended beyond online commentary to the media briefing held at Samsung’s flagship store in Seoul. Reporters present at the event echoed the criticisms, emphasizing the striking resemblance of Samsung’s new devices to Apple’s products.
This sentiment was reflected in reviews from major publications, with Bloomberg highlighting the Apple-like design of the Galaxy Watch Ultra and The Verge lamenting Samsung’s apparent shift from innovation to imitation.
In response to the controversy, internal actions were reportedly taken against key figures within Samsung MX and other employees in the mobile division. While specific measures were not detailed, the report indicates a serious response to the criticism and a potential shift in design strategy for future products.
The internal atmosphere at Samsung MX is described as tense, with a clear directive from the top to address the issues raised by consumers and critics alike.
Moving forward, it is anticipated that Samsung will make significant changes to the designs of its next generation of smartwatches and earbuds to differentiate them from Apple’s offerings.
Until these changes are implemented, Samsung faces ongoing scrutiny and accusations of copying one of its main competitors. The company’s challenge will be to regain its reputation for innovation and originality in the highly competitive tech market.