Leaks Suggest 128GB Samsung Galaxy S23 to Use Slower UFS 3.1 Storage

Some new leaks have suggested that the 128GB Samsung Galaxy S23 will be using the slower UFS 3.1 storage instead of moving up to UFS 4.0.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Staying in UFS 3.1 Instead of UFS 4.0?
It is understandable that the 128GB of the S23 uses UFS 3.1. There are indications that Samsung does not seem to produce the 128GB version of the UFS 4.0 chip. It is currently known that only Kioxia has produced the 128GB UFS4.0, but through the 128GB UFS4 chip of the Xiaomi 13
— Ice universe (@UniverseIce) January 28, 2023
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is launching with 128GB storage and using older UFS 3.1 format, according to renowned leaker Ice Universe. The 256GB version will have faster, more efficient UFS 4.0 storage and be available at the same price as the 128GB model. Samsung only manufactures 256GB and above UFS 4.0, while rival Kioxia has 128GB UFS 4.0, but Samsung is not using it. Smaller storage configurations may not perform as well due to slower data transfer speeds.
Another source, @chunvn8888, says that the Samsung Galaxy S23 has further cutbacks, such as 25W charging, Wi-Fi 6E instead of Wi-Fi 7, thicker display bezels, and a less advanced vibration motor. It is not known if the small S23 will have UWB, which is important for using advanced SmartTag+ trackers. Wi-Fi 7 has not been finalized and devices claiming to support it only have a draft version.
Despite the cutbacks, the base model Samsung Galaxy S23 is expected to be more expensive in Europe and India, but not in the US. This information is unconfirmed, and the official launch is coming this Wednesday / Thursday depending on which timezone you are in so stay tuned for further updates.
Pokdepinion: For me personally, UFS 3.1 is still fine but I suppose if you’re looking at it from the viewpoint of purchasing a new smartphone from a flagship series, I can understand the expectation of using a new, better standard. At the end of the day, buy what you can afford and buy one that suits your needs.