SAMSUNG has blocked users from accessing a fan-favourite game with a new software update to blame.
The latest update, One UI 6.6.1, has seen a new function buried from within.
3
3
3
A new function called Auto Blocker has been set as default, preventing users from downloading specific unofficial apps.
It comes as Samsung launched its latest models for Galaxy phone fans.
While the Galaxy Z FLip 6 and Z Fold 6 are fresh to the market and feature faster processors and longer battery life, users hoping to download certain apps may need to think twice before purchasing.
‘Sideloading’ applications has previously allowed users to install software that does not already exist on the phone.
In the past this has meant that those wanting to download games not available on the Galaxy Store or Google Play Store have been able to do so with ease.
The feature exists on Android devices and has often been a reason for those to pick this type of model over an iPhone – which do not allow this capability.
However, some may be disappointed to hear that Samsung’s introduction of an auto blocker will reduce the Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6 participating in the usual trend.
It is thought that the new feature has been added out of safety concerns with malware capable of infecting phones often hidden in downloads from unknown sources.
According to the Samsung support page: “The Auto Blocker feature automatically blocks files downloaded from sources other than authorised stores.
“For Galaxy devices released with One UI 6.1.1, the Auto Blocker feature is set to On by default. If the app is determined to be safe, temporarily disable this feature and try again.”
Whilst Samsung’s latest Galaxy models are affected, they are not alone.
Any device with the new software update, dubbed One UI 6.1.1, will be impacted.
This includes the Galaxy S24 series.
Users who are hoping to bypass Auto Blocker can turn the feature off by heading to Settings and then Privacy.
One user of X posted: “It’s because Samsung is doing it in a legal way.
“You can still sideload, but it’s blocked by default and you gotta do some nonsense to access it.”
Since the news, popular online video game Fortnite has been removed from the Galaxy Store by its developer, Epic Games.
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, told Sammobile that the removal was because of Samsung’s new “policy of blocking sideloading.”
The app developer will continue to support existing users who have already downloaded the games via the Galaxy Store.
Tim added: “We continue to support Samsung devices fully and wholeheartedly now and in the future.”
Samsung charging tip – how to charge best
Here’s Samsung’s official advice…
To get the most out of your smartphone’s battery, you’ll need to charge it properly.
Most Smartphones have a lithium-ion battery that lives longer when charged regularly.
Unlike the nickel batteries used in older phones, lithium-ion batteries do best when kept above a 50 percent charge.
Repeatedly allowing the battery to drain fully may shorten its life and decrease its overall capacity.
If this happens, you’ll need to charge the battery more frequently and it may last only a few hours before needing a charge, for example.
Leaving the phone connected to the charger (when the phone is completely charged) while you are using it may lower battery life if you do it repeatedly.
