Those interested in augmented reality (AR) on their Samsung Galaxy phones may soon have fewer options for experiencing the technology. If you like mixing the digital world with the real world, Samsung is closing its AR Doodle and Quick Measure apps. Although Samsung promised that the apps would return with improvements “in the future,” both apps are set to expire by December 21, 2026. Don’t worry, Samsung fans, because there are still plenty of features that only Samsung Galaxy devices have.
Android Authority noticed that Samsung announced the departure of these apps via the Galaxy Store, but both are already missing from the store for those using the latest version of One UI. If you’re unfamiliar, Quick Measure lets users take real-world measurements with their phone, while AR Doodle lets users digitally mark or draw real-world locations using their device’s camera. According to the report, One UI will not support these apps as the operating system evolves.
Once the deadline reaches, users will no longer be able to download or update any of the apps. Samsung warns that users who have already installed these apps can still use them, but “some features may not work properly.” Some users may not even know that a Samsung Galaxy phone can do AR, but those who relied on the apps are probably scrambling to find a replacement. At the moment, there is no information on when these apps will return.
Samsung drops two AR-based apps
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If a user can still see Quick Measure or AR Doodle in the Galaxy Store, they will likely see a service termination notice at the top of the app descriptions. In addition to noting that these services will end on December 31, 2026, Samsung reiterates that those who have already downloaded the apps can still use them. Notably, the Quick Measure app message specifically mentions that the app will no longer benefit from compatibility support in future OS updates.
According to the Android Authority report, some devices, like the Galaxy Z Fold 8, may already no longer support these two apps. What’s interesting is that Samsung initially promoted both apps while touting AR capabilities. Although it’s just a hypothesis, it seems that augmented reality is no longer the buzzword in the tech world, with companies now favoring artificial intelligence.
Looking at what Reddit users had to say, many were surprised to learn that both apps existed in the first place. However, those who have experience with the Quick Measure app have compared it to the native Measure app on iPhone and found it to pale in comparison. However, some have expressed disappointment over the app’s removal. Users may have to do their own research to find alternatives, but with Samsung’s potentially reduced interest in AR, it will be interesting to see if this influences how the company handles the AI-powered smart glasses it intends to launch in late 2026.
