Samsung has officially launched the beta version of its latest Android skin, One UI 7, for Galaxy S24 smartphones. Available in select regions including the U.S., U.K., India, Korea, Germany, and Poland, the beta offers a sneak peek at the future of Galaxy AI and a redesigned user experience. Here’s what you need to know about One UI 7.
Enhanced Design and Streamlined Interface
One UI 7 boasts a refreshed design philosophy, emphasizing simplicity and impact. Samsung has decluttered the interface, introduced new One UI widgets, and expanded customization options, providing users with greater control over the look and feel of their device. Both the home screen and lock screen have also been streamlined for a cleaner, more efficient experience.
The Anticipated Now Bar
One UI 7 introduces the Now Bar, a dynamic notification system designed to minimize the need to unlock your phone. While currently unavailable in the beta, the Now Bar is slated for future Galaxy S series devices. It aims to seamlessly integrate information and interactive notifications directly on the lock screen, highlighting activities like music playback, stopwatch, voice recording, and AI Interpreter mode. Samsung promises the Now Bar will revolutionize the lock screen experience, drawing comparisons to Apple’s Dynamic Island and Live Activities.
Expanding Galaxy AI Capabilities
Samsung Galaxy AI on the Galaxy Z Fold 6.
One UI 7 further integrates Galaxy AI features. Writing Assist expands its functionality to more apps, while Call Transcript now supports 20 languages, up from the initial 13. Call recordings will also automatically trigger the transcription feature. Samsung hints at more AI advancements to come, particularly with the release of the Galaxy S25 series in 2025, positioning One UI 7 as a preview of a more comprehensive and intuitive AI ecosystem.
Revamped Camera App
Samsung has redesigned the camera app in One UI 7, optimizing button layouts, controls, and modes for improved usability and quicker access to key features. The update promises a clearer viewfinder experience and enhancements to the Pro mode, including simplified manual controls and a new zoom speed control.
Knox Matrix: Bolstering Security
One UI 7 integrates significant upgrades to Samsung’s Knox security system. A new dashboard provides an overview of the security status of connected Samsung devices, enabling users to address potential threats identified by the Knox Matrix and Trust Chain, a secure private blockchain system. Additional security features include Passkeys integration, faster data backup recovery using device security methods, the ability to block 2G networks, and control over automatic Wi-Fi reconnections.
Identity Check: Proactive Threat Detection
A new opt-in security feature called Identity Check further enhances theft prevention. If potential PIN compromise is detected, the device will require biometric authentication for security setting modifications and implement a one-hour security delay. This feature is location-based and is designed to avoid activation in familiar environments like your home.
Accessing the One UI 7 Beta
To participate in the One UI 7 beta program, register through the Samsung Members app, available pre-installed on your Galaxy S24 or via the Google Play Store. The official release of One UI 7 is expected to coincide with the launch of the Galaxy S25 series in early 2025.
