Samsung has done many things right this year. The obvious examples are in the S7/Edge -- class leading hardware in various categories and a consistent trend in improving the software. Also, they were successful in pleasing the general public by putting back features people wanted, and by providing a smaller option in the S7 with little to no compromise besides the obvious smaller screen/batteries.
But it's also the little things they've done this year that are worth noting and which might account for the increase in various customer satisfaction surveys:
-Security updates. Big Android updates are still slow, but I am mightily impressed with how they're pushing out security patches.
-I know I mentioned software improvements above, but it's worth pointing out that this happens actually twice a year if you count the Galaxy S and Note as two separate times. They are constantly doing exactly what the general public wants them to: making TouchWiz leaner, cleaner, smoother, and ever more stable. As I predicted, Android software is reaching a crossroads -- Android N is adopting useful TW features, and TW is adopting N's speed, stability, security, etc. It'll be interesting to see how software/skins will really factor into people's buying decision in the future.
-Unlocked options becoming a thing. 3 months late is still better than never. I can forgive Samsung for not having it on release date if that's how their carrier contracts workout. Carrier contracts are important for exposure, sales, etc., so fine, can't blame them. As time goes though, hopefully this window gets smaller and smaller (something closer to what Apple does -- making the unlocked iPhone available about a month after release date). Still, kudos to them. Unlocked options really eliminate one of the biggest knocks against Samsung devices -- the carrier bloatware and software update interference.
-The promotions/marketing. Going to group this together, but this year's promotions have been off the charts. Say what you will about whether these are gimmicks or not to get the devices into people's hands, but for those who actually do want the device, these promos are just free gifts. Gift cards, discounts, rebates... just free stuff! ANd the marketing this year has been pretty stellar if you're asking me. Most of their campaign is simple, elegant, to the point -- just showcasing the features the S7 has over the competition (that main ad that runs that just shows the device over black, with simple music, highlighting the few key features is a particularly good one).
Just a couple of examples.
Obviously there are still areas that Samsung can continue growing in, but for now, kudos to them. They deserve the praise and success they've gotten so far. I think the S7/Edge is actually one of the best year-to-year updates to any smartphone flagship line ever. It'll be interesting to see how well it continues doing as the iPhone 7 comes out. Surely, the Note 7 is meant to counteract some of that, too. There will be fireworks. I've always argued, regardless of the dip in Apple sales/marketshare, or the leaked iPhone 7, their branding is still strong. Strong enough that even a modestly updated iPhone 7 will do well.
Competition is good for all.
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I like the quote from the Source:
Yeah, both Apple and Samsung will not be able to ignore rising competition from more and more OEM makers. Especially those selling amazing smartphones at better prices. The compromises in these cheaper options are growing smaller and smaller.
