Samsung has officially launched its latest software, One UI 7.0, alongside the much-anticipated Galaxy S25 series at the Unpacked 2025 event. While the new update brings exciting features and cutting-edge generative AI integration, the absence of any mention of older devices has left long-time Galaxy users disappointed.
Highlights of One UI 7.0
The new One UI 7.0 software promises to redefine the user experience with innovative features such as:
- Now Bar: A streamlined, customizable navigation tool that enhances multitasking.
- Now Brief: A personalized daily summary powered by generative AI, offering tailored updates on schedules, news, and weather.
- AI Integration: Samsung has emphasized generative AI capabilities, enabling features like smarter recommendations, advanced photo editing, and contextual suggestions.
These updates aim to make Galaxy devices more intelligent and user-centric than ever before. However, the rollout of these features appears to be limited to the newest flagship devices for now.
Delays in One UI 7.0 Beta Testing
In contrast to previous years, Samsung’s beta program for One UI 7.0 started much later than expected. Here’s a quick timeline of recent updates:
- One UI 6.0 Beta (2023): Rolled out in August 2023 for the Galaxy S23 series, with stable updates completed by year-end.
- One UI 7.0 Beta (2024): Delayed until December 2024, a significant three-month gap compared to the previous year.
The delay raises questions about Samsung’s priorities, especially since Google’s Android 14 and Android 15 updates followed their usual developer preview and release timelines in February and October of 2023 and 2024, respectively.
What About Older Galaxy Devices?
As of January 2025, only Galaxy S24 users have access to the One UI 7.0 beta, with no stable version available yet. Meanwhile, owners of older flagship models like the Galaxy S23, S22, and S21 are left wondering if they’ll receive the update at all.
Samsung has remained silent about a rollout roadmap for these devices, which has frustrated many loyal users who were hoping for clearer communication.
Is Samsung Overfocused on AI?
Samsung’s strong emphasis on AI was evident throughout the Unpacked event. The integration of generative AI into One UI 7.0 is undeniably impressive, bringing:
- Smarter Camera Features: AI-driven photo and video enhancements.
- Context-Aware UI: Dynamic interfaces that adapt to user behavior.
- Improved Personalization: Tailored app suggestions and notifications.
While these advancements are exciting, some critics argue that Samsung’s focus on AI for its latest flagships may be diverting resources away from developing software updates for older devices.
The Need for Transparency
Samsung’s decision to highlight its AI capabilities without addressing updates for older devices has left a gap in communication. A clear roadmap with projected rollout dates for One UI 7.0 across all eligible Galaxy devices would go a long way in reassuring users and maintaining trust.
Key Takeaways:
- One UI 7.0 introduces groundbreaking features like Now Bar, Now Brief, and generative AI.
- Beta testing for the new software was delayed, starting in December 2024.
- Older Galaxy devices, including the S23 series, have yet to receive any update timeline.
- Samsung’s focus on AI may be overshadowing software support for previous flagships.
Final Thoughts
Samsung’s One UI 7.0 is a leap forward in innovation, but the lack of inclusivity for older devices tarnishes its launch. As competition in the smartphone market intensifies, maintaining user trust and delivering timely updates will be key to Samsung’s continued success. Until then, Galaxy users are left to wonder whether their older devices will share in the excitement of One UI 7.0.
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