Samsung has released a new Tizen update for its QLED, OLED and Neo QLED TVs starting in 2023 and is generating some confusion among users. For one, the update brings some interesting visual changes to the UI, further modernizing it in areas that may have previously felt a little dated. On the other hand, the update appears to be causing problems for some soundbar users. In the meantime, let's look at all the new features coming in the big update for your Samsung TV.
Your Samsung TV may have received a major update!
Let's start with the positive aspects. The new update takes the 2023 Neo QLED, OLED and QLED firmware up to version 1402.5. Here's what changes:
Optimization of notifications in the on/off menu. Improved self-diagnosis. Improved stability and security of downloaded applications. Optimization of audio output with Adaptive Sound+. Optimized network connections. Voice control in the YouTube app has been improved. Secured by Knox logo integrated into the UI. Fixed source display error when a soundbar is connected via HDMI. Improved SmartThings integration and device registration. General color adjustments. General improvements to image quality in game mode. Fixed an error when playing sound through external speakers. Minor bug fixes.
Some news is good
Two very welcome changes concern the Settings and All settings menus. The Settings menu no longer extends to the bottom and sides of the screen. It is now displayed in a floating strip with a bit of transparency. Therefore, it has a much more modern appearance.
Likewise, Samsung has modernized the All Settings menu. It also now has some transparency and its corners are rounder. Additionally, the font has been changed, the list of options on the left is wider, the icons look more updated and the menu also looks a little more responsive.
Strangely, however, the “Multimedia” screen now contains an unusual rectangular strip between the “Applications” button and the first application shortcut in your favorites list.
This track has an interesting graphic that reflects the background of the “Multimedia” screen, but does nothing when selected.
This banner cannot be moved, removed or edited in any way. It only exists as a user interface element that can be highlighted using the remote control, but cannot be interacted with, which is quite strange.
It's unclear whether this banner appears on all 2023 Neo QLED, OLED, and QLED TVs updated to version 1402.5, but we can confirm it is on some models.
The update causes problems with the Samsung soundbar
Weird UI elements aside, this update brings a lot of good changes. However, not everything about this update appears to be good news. Many soundbar users have complained that the new firmware is causing them problems, both visually and soundly. Reddit users say they experience random sound interruptions and glitches.
Interestingly, these issues appear to only affect Samsung soundbar users. The built-in TV speakers work perfectly when the Samsung soundbar turns off, and other soundbar brands don't seem to have any problems.