Last updated: October 25, 2024 14:19 UTC+02:00
One of the best things Samsung has enabled with the launch of the Galaxy Tab S10 series is the cross-compatibility between Tab S9 and Tab S10 accessories. Thanks to this change, Galaxy Tab S10 buyers can reuse their Galaxy Tab S9 case and keyboard without encountering compatibility issues.
Similarly, Galaxy Tab S9 users can purchase and use Tab S10 accessories. However, there is one exception to this. Samsung has released a new cover keyboard for the Galaxy Tab S10+ and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra. These are 99% compatible with the Galaxy Tab S9 series, but the new Galaxy AI button is not supported.
The Galaxy AI key summons a virtual assistant of the user’s choice, but this feature is not present when the Cover Keyboard is paired with an older Galaxy Tab S9 tablet.
We assumed that Samsung could resolve this compatibility issue through a future firmware update for the Galaxy Tab S9 series. Now we have confirmation that Samsung will do just that.
One UI 7.0 brings Galaxy AI button compatibility to Tab S9
Samsung recently released a promotional video for the cover keyboard accessory for the Galaxy Tab S10 series. At one point, the video introduces the Galaxy AI button, and the fine print at the bottom of the screen says:
“Galaxy Tab S9 and Tab S9 FE series devices require One UI 7.0 or later to support Galaxy AI Key functionality. One UI update may be required.”
Essentially, this video confirms that Galaxy Tab S9 owners will be able to use the Galaxy AI Key once the One UI 7.0 update goes live.
However, it may take a while for that to happen. One UI 7.0 is probably the biggest Samsung firmware update in years, and Samsung will likely keep it in the oven for a little while longer.
The company said at SDC24 that the One UI 7 public update will be released next year instead of this year. The Galaxy Tab S9 series is unlikely to be the first device to feature One UI 7.0.
Thanks for the tip, Federico!
