When the thrill of unboxing a new gadget struck, I couldn’t wait to jump into the world of Samsung with my newly acquired Galaxy S21. The excitement was palpable, especially since I had just handed over my beloved OnePlus 7 Pro to my brother. Little did I know, this decision would lead to a long-term affair with Samsung, as I promptly realized I had left my OnePlus days behind for good! While Samsung Galaxy phones have their quirks, there are five standout features that left a lasting impression on me.

5. Samsung DeX: Turn Your Phone into a Powerful Desktop!

Imagine transforming your phone into a desktop computer with just a USB-C cable! Samsung DeX allows you to connect your Galaxy device to an external monitor for a desktop-like experience. This feature became a lifesaver for me, particularly during moments when my laptop failed to cooperate. Supporting multitasking and a familiar taskbar, DeX took my productivity to new heights without any noticeable drains on my S21's performance, even after three years. This feature gives users the freedom to tackle office tasks or enjoy media on a larger screen seamlessly.

4. Private Share via Quick Share: Your Privacy, Your Rules!

One of the most impressive advancements in file-sharing is found in the Quick Share feature. With it, you can effortlessly send files to friends and family without cumbersome pairing setups. The standout is the Private Share function, which empowers you to set expiration dates for shared files, ensuring they disappear from the recipient’s device after a specified time. This level of privacy is akin to ephemeral messaging on platforms like WhatsApp, but even better, you can revoke access to files at any time. However, note that this feature is exclusive to Samsung Galaxy devices.

3. Notification upon Pick-Up: A Subtle Reminder!

Samsung Galaxy phones feature a clever notification alert that vibrates when you pick up your device if there are missed calls or messages, eliminating the need to continuously check your screen. This simple yet effective function ensures that you stay informed without draining your battery life with always-on displays. It serves as a gentle nudge for those who lead busy lives, keeping you connected without the constant distraction of notifications.

2. Secure Folder: Keeping Your Privacy Intact!

In a world where canny security is essential, the Secure Folder feature on my Galaxy S21 is a game-changer. This feature provides a safe space to store sensitive files and apps, letting you separate personal and professional data effortlessly. What caught my attention is that apps stored in the Secure Folder can operate independently, ensuring your private information remains confidential. Additionally, you can customize the folder’s appearance and protect it with biometrics or a password, offering extensive control over your data.

1. Modes and Routines: Tailored for Your Lifestyle!

The Modes and Routines feature has practically reshaped how I use my phone daily. It allows users to establish specific profiles depending on circumstances, such as “Work,” “Sleep,” or “Driving,” which automatically adjusts settings to maintain focus. This functionality extends further with Routines, enabling the Galaxy phone to perform tasks like connecting to Wi-Fi and operating smart home devices. For instance, my phone will automatically sync with the gym's Bluetooth speaker upon arrival—saving time and letting me focus on my workout without unnecessary interruptions.

The Bottom Line: Samsung’s Unique Offerings Shine!

While my love affair with the Samsung Galaxy S21 continues, it's not without its flaws. The performance of the Exynos chip, in particular, remains a hiccup in my otherwise perfect gadget experience. Issues like inconsistent One UI animations and the occasionally erratic Accidental Touch Protection also merit attention. However, with rumors swirling about the next wave of Galaxy devices potentially featuring the Snapdragon chip globally, I am optimistic about what Samsung has to offer in the future. One thing is for certain: I won’t be looking back at OnePlus anytime soon!