In a surprising move, Samsung has drastically changed its latest devices and OS, significantly altering how Android functions. This new update brings Samsung’s UI even closer to the iPhone’s experience, exceeding the broader restrictions expected with Android 15. Given that this is Android, the change is likely to provoke a strong response from users.

While the Google Play Store has its own significant security issues, the real threat to Android devices comes from third-party app stores and direct installations. These sources lack the robust screening defenses of the official store, providing an easy avenue for threat actors to distribute dangerous apps via social media, messaging platforms, and email.

Android’s underlying OS differentiates between apps from official stores and other sources, but the default setting allows such apps to install. Google’s Play Protect offers some security for these downloads, though not as rigorous as the Play Store’s screening process. Android 15 is expected to introduce live, AI-based monitoring to flag risks in real-time, but this feature is not yet available.

Starting with the One UI 6 deployment of Android 14, Samsung introduced “enhanced security through a feature called Auto Blocker.” When enabled, Auto Blocker protects Galaxy devices and data by preventing the installation of apps from unauthorized sources and blocking malicious activities.

Previously, this setting had to be manually enabled, but that’s about to change. Samsung has announced that “starting with One UI 6.1.1, additional security features including Maximum Restrictions, have been added.”

This advanced security mode significantly enhances the defenses of Galaxy devices. Despite expected pushback from some users, the majority will likely welcome this change. According to Samsung’s support site, Maximum Restrictions include several robust protections:

  • App protection: Checks installed apps for malicious activity.
  • Blocks device admin apps: Prevents activation of potentially malicious device admin apps and work profiles.
  • Blocks auto-downloading attachments: Stops automatic downloads of message attachments to guard against malicious software, while still allowing manual downloads from trusted sources.
  • Blocks hyperlinks and previews: Protects against accidentally clicking on malicious hyperlinks or viewing harmful preview images.
  • Removes location data when sharing pictures: Prevents recipients from determining the location where a picture was taken when shared through Samsung Messages or Gallery.
  • Blocks shared albums: Prevents sharing sensitive information and accepting invites from unknown senders.

As reported by Android Authority, “starting with new Galaxy smartphones and tablets launching with One UI 6.1.1, Samsung will block users from sideloading apps from unauthorized sources… We can expect complaints on forums about sideloading being blocked on the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6… Fortunately, it’s easy to disable Auto Blocker.”

Users who have already disabled these restrictions will see their preferences carried over to the new UI, so they will not notice any change. For most users, though, it’s advisable to keep these protections enabled.

Significant changes are coming to the Play Store soon, with Google’s confirmed purge of many low-quality apps. This will include a substantial number of malicious apps, making the store safer. Google aims to clean up the ecosystem—no more wild west. Samsung is taking these efforts even further.

With these security innovations, Android is moving towards iPhone’s level of control. While many users might not like this shift, most will benefit from the increased safety.