Samsung is developing new functionality for its next major software update, One UI 8, which promises to solve a chronic problem for smartphone users on Japão. The new feature will allow the complete and secure deletion of data stored on the FeliCa chip, a contactless payment technology widely used in the country.
This implementation, scheduled to be launched on the basis of the Android 16, aims to increase the security and resale value of the Galaxy devices in the Japanese market. Atualmente, the difficulty in completely erasing FeliCa information creates insecurity and devalues used devices, as residual data may remain on the chip even after factory restoration.
The announcement represents an important step for Samsung in adapting its products to the specific needs of regional markets. The solution will simplify the process of selling a used device, ensuring that the previous owner can remove all personal information permanently and without the need to resort to specialized technical services from operators.
FeliCa technology and its importance in Japão
FeliCa is a contactless smart card (NFC) technology developed by Sony and which has become the de facto standard in Japão for more than two decades. Sua main feature is the transaction speed, which occurs in approximately 0.1 second, making it ideal for high-demand systems, such as public transport boarding gates in metropolises like Tóquio. Diferente of the global NFC standard, FeliCa uses its own security architecture and file system, which creates a unique technological ecosystem. Além of transportation cards like the Suica and Pasmo, the technology is integrated into credit cards, employee identification systems and a wide range of payment services in convenience stores, vending machines and restaurants, making it an indispensable part of everyday life for millions of people.
The challenge of reselling smartphones with FeliCa
FeliCa’s deep integration into the Japão has created a significant hurdle for the used smartphone market. Quando a user sells their device, sensitive information, such as travel history, transport card balances and payment data, may remain on the chip. Completely removing this data is a complex process that is often not completed by simply restoring the operating system to factory settings.
This security vulnerability makes many buyers hesitant to purchase second-hand devices, fearing that data from the previous owner could compromise usage or privacy. Consequentemente, the resale value of devices is negatively affected, and sellers need to seek technical assistance from telephone operators to carry out deep cleaning of the chip, a procedure that can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
How the new Samsung tool will work
The solution that will be implemented in One UI 8 will allow users to delete FeliCa data directly through the device’s settings menu. The process is designed to be simple and accessible.
When accessing the new option, the system will present a clear warning about the permanent removal of information. The tool will guide the user through confirmation steps to avoid accidental deletion.
After final confirmation, the software will execute a low-level command to completely clear the chip’s memory, ensuring that no trace of data remains on the device before it is sold or passed on.
Security and privacy for users
The main benefit of this new function is the reinforcement of security and privacy. By giving the user full control over the deletion of their data, Samsung mitigates the risk of fraud or misuse of personal information.
This is particularly relevant in the case of FeliCa, which stores detailed histories of public transport use, financial balances and other information that can reveal an individual’s habits and routines.
The ability to reliably erase this data ensures that the transfer of device ownership goes smoothly.
The move aligns Galaxy devices with growing consumer expectations for greater control over their personal data in an increasingly digitized world.
Galaxy models that should receive the update
Samsung confirmed that the functionality will be part of the One UI 8 update, based on the upcoming Android 16. The launch will follow the company’s traditional schedule, starting with the most recent high-end models at the time of launch.
The Galaxy S25 series and future releases are expected to be the first to receive the update, with distribution gradually expanding to flagship models from previous years that are still within the brand’s software support cycle.
Feature availability
This FeliCa cleaning feature will initially be exclusive to devices sold in the Japanese market, as the technology and associated problem are specific to this region.
Implications for the local market
For consumers, the main gain will be the ability to manage their personal information securely, strengthening privacy and security at the time of resale. Isso can increase confidence in the used appliances market.
Samsung’s initiative could boost the resale value of Galaxy smartphones over Japão, making them a more attractive option compared to competitors that do not yet offer a similar solution to the problem of residual data on the FeliCa chip.