Contents
Samsung Discontinues Two AR Apps: A Look at Their Future
Samsung is set to retire two of its augmented reality (AR) applications: AR Doodle and Quick Measure. These apps will only be available for download until December 31, 2026. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean they will be immediately disabled on all devices where they are already installed.
The Retreat of Augmented Reality?
AR Doodle and Quick Measure, integral parts of Samsung’s AR ecosystem, will officially cease support on December 31, 2026. This discontinuation is anticipated to coincide with the release of an upcoming version of Samsung’s custom Android overlay, One UI, possibly One UI 9. Interestingly, both tools are already absent from newer devices, such as the recently unveiled Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8, indicating a proactive phase-out.
What Did These Apps Do?
For those unfamiliar, these applications offered unique augmented reality experiences:
- AR Doodle: This feature allowed users to draw virtually in the air. The doodles created could then be “attached” to people or objects in the camera’s view, making for fun, interactive videos and photos.
- Quick Measure: Essentially a digital tape measure, this tool utilized the smartphone’s camera to estimate the dimensions of objects and spaces in real-time.
It’s crucial to understand a key detail: if these applications were previously installed on your Samsung mobile device, they are expected to remain active, at least for the time being. The ultimate end of their functionality on existing installations remains an open question.
One UI 9 Beta: What’s New?
Meanwhile, the beta testing for One UI 9 is actively underway. Recent updates have rolled out to several more Samsung smartphones, including devices like the Galaxy A56 and the entire Galaxy S23 series (the base model, S23+, and S23 Ultra). This update, typically around 3.4 GB, not only introduces the latest test version of the One UI overlay but also includes significant security patches.
Initially, this beta update was launched in South Korea and is soon expected to reach other major markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and India. Information regarding its availability in other regions is yet to be announced.
As Samsung continues to evolve its software, new features and improvements are constantly being introduced. For a deeper dive into what’s coming, you might be interested in exploring Samsung One UI 9 Namedrop Feature or checking out What is new in One UI 9: Multi-window, AI, Cross-device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
AR Doodle allowed users to draw virtual objects in real-world environments through their phone’s camera, with the drawings staying fixed to objects or people. Quick Measure used the camera and AR technology to measure the dimensions of objects and spaces in real-time.
While the apps will no longer be available for download after December 31, 2026, and will cease official support, the article states that apps already installed on devices are expected to remain active for an unspecified period. However, their long-term functionality without future updates is uncertain.
The discontinuation of AR Doodle and Quick Measure suggests a strategic shift in Samsung’s approach to augmented reality. It could indicate a move towards integrating AR features more deeply into the core camera app or exploring new, more advanced AR technologies and experiences with future One UI updates.
Source: Android Authority. Opening photo: Lukmanazis / Shutterstock
About Post Author
