It’s not unlike Apple to be at the centre of Google and Samsung jokes, as both companies are usually fond of mocking the Cupertino-based giant. Google makes iPhones look like their Pixel’s clueless best friend, while Samsung isn’t exactly subtle with its snarky billboard advertisements and flyers.
This time, Samsung’s latest ad takes the rivalry to the next level, promoting the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 while poking fun at iPhone users. We see Apple fans following instructions from the popular “Simon says” game, with Simon probably meant to symbolize Apple’s leadership. Although they didn’t say iSheep outright, they might as well have.
Samsung says think different, Apple
Three days ago, on November 22, Samsung shared a one minute long ad on X. The brand doubled down on the idea that Apple has abandoned its “Think Different” roots, claiming that their foldables are the real way to “do your own thing”.
With flashy shots of foldable displays and features powered by Galaxy AI, Samsung tries to show you that its devices are more innovative than the iPhone. It’s cheeky, but there’s some truth to it.
Samsung’s phones actually bend as part of the design, with their foldables built to flex and extra functionality. Meanwhile, Apple’s past bendgate issues, where iPhones bent due to a technical flaw, is still fresh in the minds of many.
There’s also the openness of Android, combined with the customization options within One UI, that offers the freedom to personalize your devices in ways that Apple doesn’t allow.
You can adjust system settings, install third-party apps, and change how your phone functions. Galaxy AI also has the edge over Apple’s Intelligence, mainly because of its first-to-market advantage and standout features like Interpreter for real-time language translation and Circle to Search.
That said, Samsung’s ad is meant to be playful and competitive and something we’re used to by now. But it does carry a tone that feels dismissive to anyone who strongly identifies with the Apple brand. Worse, it could potentially hurt Samsung’s chances of converting iPhone users, considering the “mindless follower” narrative.
Related: Would You Buy A Tri-Fold Samsung Galaxy Device?
Is Samsung’s bold message doing too much?
Now, I’m no big fan of Apple’s ecosystem. Still, I can see many reasons why people are loyal to Apple. It’s really just a preference thing. They value the simplicity and seamless user experience across devices, among other things.
Perhaps, their message is coming on too strong in trying to prove they’re better. Instead, their products should speak for themselves. If the foldables are truly innovative, the technology should do the talking.
As for Apple, it would be nice if they focused on making their ecosystem less restrictive globally. All that aside, the comment sections on this topic are about to get interesting. Already, comments are reflecting a mix of frustration and sarcasm about.
Particularly, users are calling out Samsung for copying Apple in many ways, such as removing features like the headphone jack and using similar design choices. At the same time, Samsung fans bash Apple for copying them in embracing the RCS feature and other areas.
In the end, both brands have their strengths and offer something unique that fits different types of consumers. The end to that fight is knowing and remembering that.
