Samsung Galaxy users have been eagerly waiting for the next big update to Samsung’s custom Android skin, One UI 7. However, the launch of the One UI 7 Beta program has been unexpectedly delayed, leaving fans and tech enthusiasts eager for updates. Normally, Samsung would have already released the first Android 15-based One UI 7 beta by now, but unforeseen issues in development have pushed back the timeline. Despite these delays, there’s already a lot of excitement around the new features and improvements expected in this update. Here’s a look at what we know so far about Samsung One UI 7.
The Delayed Release of Samsung One UI 7: Development Challenges
Samsung has been working hard on One UI 7, but the development and testing phases have faced some setbacks, causing the delay. The Android 15 operating system, which One UI 7 is based on, also hasn’t reached its stability phase yet, adding to the challenges.
Another reason for the delay is Samsung’s focus on the One UI 6.1.1 update, which debuted with the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Flip6. The ongoing rollout of this version has taken priority, so users will need to wait a bit longer for One UI 7 as Samsung ensures it delivers a smooth, bug-free experience.
New Features and Changes in Samsung One UI 7
Even though the official release is delayed, leaks and rumors have given us a preview of what One UI 7 might offer. This update promises to be significant, with many new features, design updates, and performance improvements.
1. Cleaner Home Screen Design
Samsung may add two new options for the Home screen: Classic and Bold under the icon and widget style tab. The Classic option will show apps with their labels, while the Bold option will feature larger app icons without labels. This design change is similar to Apple’s iOS 18 home screen and could give One UI 7 a fresh, modern look.
2. One-Handed Camera UI and New Camera Icon
One UI 7 is expected to redesign the Camera app to make it easier to use with one hand. The additional camera modes, which were previously under the “More” option, will now be at the bottom of the screen in a box. The “+” Plus button will be replaced with an Edit button for easier customization.
3. Battery Percentage Indicator
One UI 7 will add the battery percentage inside the battery icon, making it easier for users to check their battery status at a glance. This feature will be enabled by default.
4. Smoother Animations
Samsung is focusing on improving the smoothness of animations throughout the system in One UI 7. This includes smoother transitions when opening and closing apps, booting up, and more, making the overall user experience more responsive and visually appealing.
5. Larger Folders
One UI 7 will introduce larger folders with a 3×3 grid layout, allowing users to add up to eight apps that can be accessed with a single tap. This will improve usability and help keep things organized.
6. Updated App Designs and Notification Panel
One UI 7 will also bring new designs for key apps like Gallery, Weather, Dialer, Contacts, Clock, Camera, and Internet Browser. The notification panel will get a major redesign, featuring a two-page layout with separate scrolling for notifications and quick settings. Notifications will drop down from the left, and Quick Settings will open from the right.
Galaxy Models Eligible for Samsung One UI 7
A wide range of Galaxy devices is expected to get the Android 15-based One UI 7 update. Here’s a list of models likely to be eligible:
- Galaxy S Series: S24/S24+/S24 Ultra, S23/S23+/S23 Ultra, S23 FE, S22/S22+/S22 Ultra, S21/S21+/S21 Ultra, S21 FE
- Galaxy Z Series: Z Fold6/Flip6, Z Fold5/Flip5, Z Fold4/Flip4, Z Fold3/Flip3
- Galaxy Tab Series: Tab S9/S9+/S9 Ultra, Tab S9 FE/S9 FE+, Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra, Tab A9/A9+, Tab S6 Lite (2024), Tab Active4 Pro, Tab Active5
- Galaxy A Series: A73/A55/A54/A53/A35/A34/A33/A24/A25/A15/A14/A05/A05s
- Galaxy C Series: C55
- Galaxy F Series: F54/F34/F15/F14/F55/F14 4G
- Galaxy M Series: M54/M34/M15/M14/M55/M35/M14 4G
- Galaxy XCover Series: XCover6 Pro, XCover7
Samsung One UI 7 Beta Program: What to Expect
The One UI 7 Beta program will likely start with the Galaxy S24 lineup and then roll out to other flagship and mid-tier models. The beta will first be available in select countries, including:
- United Kingdom
- United States
- India
- Korea
- Poland
- Germany
- China
Samsung usually opens the beta program in Korea and the US first, followed by other regions. Although the official beta release has been delayed, reports suggest it may start in September 2024.
How to Join the Samsung One UI 7 Beta Program
If you want to be among the first to try One UI 7, you can join the beta program once it’s available by following these steps:
- Open the Samsung Members app.
- Log in with your Samsung account.
- Look for the One UI Beta Program banner.
- Tap the banner and register for the latest One UI Beta program to complete your enrollment.
Conclusion
While the delay in the Samsung One UI 7 Beta program has disappointed many fans, the upcoming features and changes are likely to make the wait worthwhile. From a cleaner home screen design to smoother animations and updated app designs, One UI 7 promises to be a major update for Galaxy users. As Samsung continues to refine the experience, we can expect a more polished and feature-packed One UI 7 when it finally launches.