Core Viewpoint - The shift in user complaints from hardware to software in the smartphone industry highlights the growing dissatisfaction among flagship users regarding the lack of timely updates and exclusive features for new models, leading to a perception of neglect for older models [1][15][19] Group 1: User Experience and Expectations - Users of flagship models feel frustrated when new features are exclusively available on mid-range devices, despite having paid significantly more for their devices [3][15] - The perception of being treated as less valuable compared to new device users creates a sense of betrayal among loyal customers [15][19] - The introduction of features that are not fully available to older models, such as limited filter options, exacerbates user dissatisfaction [7][19] Group 2: Manufacturer Strategies - Manufacturers are under pressure to innovate in the mid-range market, leading to the introduction of exclusive features that may alienate existing flagship users [4][16] - The "ocean of products" strategy, where companies release numerous models, complicates the upgrade process and diminishes brand loyalty among consumers [16][19] - The focus on high-end products is becoming essential as the smartphone market matures, with companies needing to balance new releases with customer satisfaction [21][23] Group 3: Market Dynamics - The competitive landscape has intensified, with companies launching multiple models in quick succession, which can confuse consumers and dilute brand identity [16][21] - The shift towards high-end products is seen as a necessary strategy to counteract declining sales in lower segments, as the market becomes saturated [21][23] - Companies that can streamline their product lines and focus on quality over quantity are likely to succeed in maintaining market share and customer loyalty [23]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "OTA castration" in the smartphone industry, where manufacturers limit the functionality of older models despite their hardware capabilities, leading to a subpar user experience [2][5][40]. Group 1: OTA Castration Phenomenon - Manufacturers often restrict features on older devices to differentiate product lines and maintain exclusivity for newer models [2][5]. - The "OTA castration" results in older flagship models receiving fewer software updates and features compared to newer mid-range devices, despite having similar hardware [5][23]. - Examples include Vivo's X200 series, which lacks certain features available on the mid-range S30 series, despite being marketed as a flagship [15][17]. Group 2: Specific Manufacturer Cases - Vivo's X200 Pro mini received limited functionality for new filters compared to the X200 Ultra, despite both devices having similar hardware [11][13]. - OPPO's Find X8 series introduced new imaging algorithms that older models like Find X7 Ultra do not support, despite having the necessary hardware [24][29]. - Xiaomi's latest flagship, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, lacks certain features that are available on the Redmi K80 Ultra, raising concerns about prioritization in software updates [30][35]. Group 3: Industry Implications - The trend of limiting software updates to newer models creates dissatisfaction among users who expect longevity and full functionality from their devices [40]. - The smartphone industry’s focus on rapid product releases and feature differentiation often leads to inadequate support for older models, undermining user trust [40].