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Smartphone cases are something we all use, but I don’t understand why Samsung and Google keep making the same annoying mistake when it comes to their own Galaxy and Pixel cases.
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Top brand smartphone cases are usually overpriced, but they are also usually one of the best options, especially when your smartphone is new. Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices are growing in popularity, but the depth of the case market compared to the iPhone is still quite shallow.
That said, I’ve been quite bothered by one aspect of Google and Samsung’s own cases in recent years, and that’s the silicone material these brands choose.
Is shape Too sticky, to the point where it’s basically unusable.
For the past week I’ve been using Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra in the brand’s official silicone case and, frankly, it’s been infuriating. The silicone material feels good in the hand, where its gripping qualities really come in handy, but sliding this phone in and out of your pocket is a constant irritation. It’s basically impossible to get the device out of my jeans without taking the entire pocket, and trying to slide it back in is even more frustrating.

The same has happened with Google’s official Pixel cases for the last two generations, which is a shame since Google matches the color of its cases to the phones so perfectly. When my wife upgraded to the Pixel 10 Pro, she was excited to get the official color-coordinated “Jade” case, but then asked to change the case because she was frustrated by the same issue as me.
My question for both brands is simply: why? Why do we keep doing this? I understood it when Google made this mistake. on the Pixel 8 series a few years ago and I thought it would be a specific problem. It has improved slightly, but it certainly hasn’t gone away. And I would say that Samsung’s silicone case is somehow even worse.
What do you think? Have you encountered this problem?
MWC 2026 Summary
In case you missed our coverage of MWC 2026 this week, here’s a quick recap of the highlights:
Nothing Phone launched (4a)
Right after MWC 2026, Nothing launched the Phone (4a) series in London (yes, this author is out of stock) and it looks like a really good update to the series.
March Pixel Drop
9to5Mac: Apple announced 7 new products this week
9to5Toys: Nintendo sues US government over Trump tariffs: Mario wants his gold coins back
Electrek: It’s official: Hyundai removes IONIQ 6 from US lineup, Kia electric vehicles remain in limbo
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