Samsung is set to cease support for two of its previously promoted augmented reality (AR) applications, AR Doodle and Quick Measure. This strategic decision marks a pivot from the company's earlier enthusiasm for AR technologies, as it streamlines its offerings in an evolving technological landscape. Users of these applications will see their functionality sunset by the end of 2026, signaling a shift in Samsung's mobile software priorities, particularly with upcoming iterations of its One UI operating system.
In an era preceding the widespread dominance of artificial intelligence as a marketing centerpiece, augmented reality, alongside terms like 'metaverse' and 'blockchain,' frequently captured public and corporate attention. However, with AI now taking center stage, many tech companies are re-evaluating their commitments to these once-hyped concepts. Samsung's move to withdraw support for AR Doodle and Quick Measure appears to align with this industry trend, reflecting a recalibration of resources towards more currently impactful technologies.
The impending removal of these two applications, AR Doodle and Quick Measure, was communicated through updated changelogs on the Galaxy App Store, as observed by various sources and subsequently verified. Both apps are slated for discontinuation on December 31, 2026. After this date, they will no longer be available for download. Furthermore, future versions of Samsung's operating system, potentially starting with the stable release of One UI 9, will cease to support these AR features. This explains why some newer devices, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 8, already lack these applications.
AR Doodle allowed users to sketch virtual elements into real-world environments using their phone's camera, with drawings intelligently anchored to faces or objects, often utilizing a stylus for enhanced interaction. Quick Measure, conversely, offered a utility for approximating the physical dimensions of objects like large packages or walls through the device's camera. While these tools offered unique functionalities, their declining prominence in Samsung's ecosystem suggests a diminishing user base or a strategic re-evaluation of their long-term viability.
For individuals who currently have AR Doodle and Quick Measure installed on their devices and find them valuable, these applications are expected to remain functional until system updates render them incompatible. Therefore, for those keen on continuing to use these AR features, it is advisable to ensure they are downloaded and installed before the specified end-of-year deadline, allowing for continued use until device software updates or hardware changes ultimately phase them out.
