Samsung has announced new features for their One UI 7, which is based on Android 15, and is now in beta. The improvements centre around the integration of artificial intelligence. This update revolves around the Now Bar, a feature that Samsung calls a “defining element” of the user interface. It gives users a more personalized and engaging experience on the lock screen.
Samsung Challenges Dynamic Island with Now Bar
The Now Bar is Samsung’s take on Apple’s Dynamic Island but with a modern twist. You can control entertainment, watch workouts, obtain directions, and even translate languages right from the lock screen due to the Now Bar, which is located at the bottom centre of the screen and incorporates frequently used apps and tasks.
According to Samsung, the Now Bar in One UI 7 provides a very customized experience. For example, make a folder with all the apps you need for quick access while you’re preparing for a trip. Similar to Google’s current services, it gives you timely reminders like when to leave for the airport. However, it adds its own unique spin by building a personalized travel soundtrack to make the ride even better.
In addition to travel-related features, the Now Bar provides useful everyday utilities such as weather predictions that can be accessed with a single swipe and an option to “relive the highlights” at the end of each day.
Strengthening Privacy and Data Security
Samsung also unveiled its Personal Data Engine, an improved privacy protection system, alongside the Now Bar. Knox Vault, Samsung’s reliable security platform, manages the encryption keys used by this engine to safely store data on the device. As extra protection against new forms of cybercrime, it incorporates post-quantum cryptography.
