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Samsung One UI 9 Update May Include Memory Tagging Feature with Potential Performance Impact
Samsung's upcoming One UI 9 update could introduce a memory tagging extension in the Auto Blocker app, based on code analysis. This feature, which enhances security by tagging memory blocks to prevent unauthorized access, might reduce device performance according to code strings. The update has not been officially announced by Samsung.
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Samsung's One UI 9 software update, expected for Galaxy smartphones, may include a new security feature in the Auto Blocker app. According to an analysis by Android Authority on April 6, code strings in the Auto Blocker app suggest the addition of a memory tagging extension toggle.
This feature would leverage Arm v9 CPU capabilities to tag memory blocks and detect unauthorized access, data corruption, or security vulnerabilities in real time. Auto Blocker was introduced with One UI 6 and functions to block sideloaded apps, malicious USB commands, and harmful images in messages on Galaxy devices.
The analyzed code indicates that users could enable the memory tagging extension with a switch in One UI 9. However, the code also includes strings noting that this functionality could reduce phone performance.
tagging extension tags memory blocks to allow the operating system to identify if an application attempts unauthorized use, such as reading from restricted areas or writing into another app's space. This feature is already available on Google's Pixel 8 through developer options and is enabled by default with the Advanced Protection feature.
Samsung has not issued any official announcement regarding the inclusion of this feature in One UI 9. The potential performance impact stems from the active monitoring and blocking of memory access attempts. While the exact extent of any slowdown remains unclear from the code analysis, it is tied to the feature's security mechanisms.
One UI 9 is anticipated to build on previous updates, with broader rollout details pending official confirmation.
smartphones compatible with One UI updates, particularly those with Arm v9-compatible processors, would be affected. Users concerned about security could opt to enable the feature for added protection against exploits, while those prioritizing speed might choose to disable it if available.
