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Samsung's Finder Search Button Copies Apple's Spotlight

9to5Mac •
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Samsung's new Galaxy S26 series introduces One UI 8.5 with a controversial new feature that mirrors Apple's iOS search functionality. The Finder search button, spotted by 9to5Google's Ben Schoon during hands-on testing, repurposes page indicators on the home screen to provide quick access to on-device data and web search results. This includes calendar appointments, photos, notes, files, and Galaxy AI integration for faster information retrieval.

While the implementation offers practical benefits for Galaxy users, the feature's similarity to Apple's Spotlight search is striking. Both systems provide nearly identical functionality in the same location, with the primary difference being Samsung's choice to name its version "Finder" rather than using a generic "Search" label. The name choice is particularly notable given that Finder has been Apple's file management system name since the original Macintosh launched over 40 years ago.

This move represents one of Samsung's most blatant instances of Apple-inspired design in recent memory, especially following last year's Galaxy S25 Edge launch. While the enhanced search experience will likely be welcomed by users who appreciate similar functionality on iOS and Pixel devices, the feature's obvious inspiration and the provocative naming choice suggest Samsung may face pressure to reconsider this implementation in future One UI updates.