Apple insists on keeping this unreliable destined to fail mechanical button, since sooner or later it fails. It's just another opportunity for Apple to sell another iPhone. The touch sensitive controls on the front of several of my Android phones are wonderful. They don't become filled with dust or debris since they are under glass. Being a part of the entire touch screen panel they make perfect sense.
However it's important to recognize that a good majority of iPhone users are adverse to change unless Apple tells them it's OK. It's this overwhelming power they have to influence their users that lines Apples coffers with big profits. Along those same lines Samsung's smart to notice their competitions sway. That's one reason the Galaxy line uses what Apple followers recognize as a "home button."
As such Samsung was influenced to use the same to increase the chances that it would reduce the fear Apple users have over a different style control. The strategy works quite well, as many past iPhone users feel less threatened when switching, since they immediately know what that button is for. Then in an equally smart move, Samsung uses a higher quality button of much greater durability than Apples. I've never experienced a single home button failure on any of my Galaxy phones, even my nearly four year old Galaxy S.
Contrast that to the 4 failed Apple home buttons I've had to deal with. Two on my iPhone 4, all within the first year, and one each on my 4S & 5, also failing within the first year of ownership. Apple is nothing if not clever when assuring their own financial gain. One glance at the way the Apple devotees brag about Apple riches, proves the effectiveness of Apples influence. I give Apple a lot of credit for their success. Not one of the many people I know, buys a new BMW or Mercedes then brags about how much profit the company makes.
