One UI 7: Key Features and Enhancements

With the release of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series in January 2025, One UI 7 will be fully released after its beta period. Long-time users will notice various differences, but overall, it’s the most substantial visual overhaul of Samsung’s software in years. Aside from the similarities, Samsung is adding some features that fans have been asking for, even if other companies have had them for years. Let’s go over the updates and changes so you’re prepared for when it’s released.

Visual Enhancements in One UI 7

In comparison to Samsung’s previous offerings, One UI 7 stands out significantly.

Updated Notification and Quick Settings

Accessing fast settings and the notification shade now requires two swipes instead of one. Following Apple’s example, Samsung has separated notifications from quick toggles. Swiping down from anywhere on the home screen reveals notifications while swiping from the top-right provides quick settings.

Improved Notification Tiles

Notifications are now brighter, better spaced, and more noticeable, but the change slightly disrupts muscle memory. The quick settings menu has also expanded, increasing the toggle count from 20 in One UI 6.1 to 24.

Revamped App Icons and Widgets

Samsung adopted a brighter and bolder color scheme, enhancing the visual appeal. The interface feels more cohesive and unified, with new lock screen widgets displaying battery life, weather, and customizable clock options.

Enhanced Animations and Camera App

Animation fluidity has improved, making multitasking and app-switching seamless. The camera app features a streamlined interface, offering simpler navigation. Switching between modes and zoom levels is now easier, even one-handed.

Addition of an App Drawer

One of the most anticipated features in One UI 7 is the introduction of an app drawer. Swiping up reveals a vertical drawer with all applications neatly organized. While the feature was somewhat rough in beta testing, refinements are expected for the final version. Users who prefer the traditional horizontal layout can revert to it.

One UI 7 Welcomes Now Bar and Galaxy AI Features

The Now Bar, Samsung’s response to Apple’s Dynamic Island, is now available on the One UI 7 home screen. However, its current beta version lacks the APIs needed for third-party developer support. One of Dynamic Island’s key attractions is its integration with third-party apps, so it’s hoped that this capability will be added to the Now Bar in future updates. For now, the Now Bar offers basic features like timer and music controls, with potential for expanded functionality in the future.

The Now Bar uses machine learning to analyze user data and actions. It can notify users about upcoming events and provide helpful organizational tools. For instance, if your Galaxy phone recognizes that you typically leave for lunch at 12:00, it might suggest booking an Uber or setting a reminder. It can also recommend music playlists and provide quick access to weather updates and map links, enhancing the lock screen’s usability.

As part of One UI 7, the Now Bar integrates seamlessly with Galaxy AI. Translation and transcription services have been improved, and writing assistance is now available throughout the interface. Future updates may even allow users to view transcribed versions of recorded calls. To address potential security risks from increased data flow through Galaxy AI, Samsung Knox has been upgraded with enhanced cross-app data encryption to protect user information.

In addition to these features, Samsung has introduced adaptive charging options. Users can limit charging to 80% or allow the battery to cycle between 95% and 100% during charging. These options aim to extend battery life, particularly for those planning to use their Galaxy phones for the full seven years of service offered for flagship devices.

When Can You Get the Full Version of One UI 7?

Samsung has delayed the release of One UI 7 to 2025, but it is widely expected to debut alongside the Galaxy S25 series in January. With Galaxy AI being a major focus for Samsung, pairing it with the One UI 7 experience on flagship devices seems like a strategic move. Currently, One UI 7 is in beta, and it’s best avoided on primary smartphones. However, the wait won’t be too long before a stable version is available.