The new Samsung Galaxy Note 7 launches today, and the handset comes with an always-on display feature. However, this launch has sparked controversy as Motorola has accused Samsung of stealing this feature from them.
Motorola took to Twitter to make a direct reference to their always-on display, as you can see in the tweet below.
In what galaxy is it okay to steal competitor phones’ cool features? #TheOriginalAlwaysOnDisplay #motozdroid pic.twitter.com/T75byy5bIx
— Moto US (@Moto_USA) August 18, 2016
History of the Always-On Display Feature
Motorola did introduce a similar feature to its smartphones back in 2013, specifically with the launch of the Moto X. This feature, known as “Active Display,” allowed users to see notifications and the time without fully waking the phone. It was a significant innovation at the time and set Motorola apart from its competitors.
However, it’s important to note that Motorola was not the first to offer an always-on display. Nokia had a similar feature with its smartphones running their Symbian OS. This was introduced by Nokia on their N86 back in 2009. The Nokia N86’s always-on display showed the time and notifications, much like the features we see today. Therefore, while Motorola’s claim to the feature is valid, they were not the pioneers in this technology.
Samsung’s Implementation and the Broader Context
Samsung’s implementation of the always-on display in the Galaxy Note 7 is part of a broader trend in the smartphone industry. The feature has become increasingly popular as it offers users a convenient way to check important information at a glance without draining the battery significantly. Samsung’s version of the always-on display is highly customizable, allowing users to choose what information is displayed, such as the clock, calendar, or notifications.
The controversy between Motorola and Samsung highlights a common issue in the tech industry: the fine line between inspiration and imitation. While companies often build upon each other’s innovations, accusations of copying can lead to legal battles and public disputes. In this case, Motorola’s public call-out on Twitter serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the smartphone market.
It’s also worth mentioning that other smartphone manufacturers have adopted similar features. For example, LG introduced an always-on display with the LG G5, and Google has incorporated it into its Pixel lineup. This widespread adoption indicates that the always-on display has become a standard feature in modern smartphones, much like fingerprint sensors and facial recognition.
In conclusion, while Motorola’s frustration is understandable, the always-on display feature has a long history that predates both Motorola and Samsung’s implementations. The ongoing evolution of smartphone technology often involves building upon existing ideas, leading to better and more refined features for consumers. As the industry continues to innovate, we can expect to see even more advancements that enhance the user experience.
Source Android Authority
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