Samsung’s executive leadership is addressing growing concerns over design similarities to Apple products. Reports indicate that Lee Jae-yong, the executive chairman of Samsung, expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s mobile division following an outcry on social media and in tech discussions about the design of its latest offerings.
In light of these criticisms, Lee has called for a comprehensive review of the plans within Samsung MX (Mobile eXperience) after allegations arose that new products bear resemblance to Apple clones. An insider has revealed that the chairman stepped in to address the issue stemming from controversies surrounding design comparisons and quality concerns related to the Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Watch 7 launched last month. The internal sentiment reportedly has become tense.
The report also highlights that measures have been initiated against leaders within the Samsung MX division, reflecting accountability for the backlash.
Criticism of Samsung’s Product Designs
Last month’s Galaxy Unpacked event, where Samsung unveiled its latest smartphones alongside the Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Galaxy Buds 3 series, faced immediate criticism online. Tech reviewers, commentators, and even loyal Samsung fans expressed disappointment over the perceived imitation of Apple’s design aesthetics.
Feedback from industry observers has been particularly harsh. One notable reviewer described the Galaxy Watch Ultra as “the most shameless copy of an Apple product in ages,” while others criticized Samsung for lacking innovation and originality in their latest releases. These sentiments were echoed by several tech reporters who attended a media briefing in Seoul, with discussions circulating about the strikingly similar looks to Apple products.
Recent evaluations of Samsung’s new lineup have consistently highlighted the Apple-like designs, with major publications drawing parallels to their competitors.
As Samsung faces mounting pressure to distinguish its products, the anticipation surrounding future iterations of the Galaxy Ultra smartwatch and earbuds becomes critical. Industry watchers are keen to see how Samsung will evolve their designs to address these concerns and reshape their brand identity moving forward.