Google Integrates Maps with Samsung’s One UI 7 Now Bar
Samsung’s One UI 7 update introduces Now Bar, a new lock screen feature that provides real-time updates from various apps. Just in time for the Samsung Galaxy S25 launch, Google Maps has now been updated to integrate with Now Bar, making navigation even more convenient on Galaxy smartphones.
Now Bar Brings Google Maps Navigation to Your Lock Screen
Samsung first revealed the Now Bar feature during the Galaxy S25 launch event, confirming that it would display route information from Google Maps. However, at the time, the feature wasn’t available on demo units, review models, or retail devices. Now, with the latest Google Maps update (version 25.04.01.717254420), the functionality has officially arrived.
Key Highlights:
- Google Maps’ route information now appears directly on the Now Bar.
- The feature is available on Samsung Galaxy S25 and S24 devices running One UI 7.
- Google Maps information also integrates with the Live Activities bar at the top of the screen.
First Look: Google Maps on Now Bar
The new feature was first spotted by X user @tarunvats33, confirming that the update is rolling out to Samsung users globally. The Now Bar functionality means users can quickly check turn-by-turn navigation, ETA updates, and real-time traffic conditions without unlocking their phones.
Now Bar Supports More Apps
Samsung’s Now Bar isn’t just for Google Maps—it also integrates with several other Samsung and Google apps, including:
- Samsung Health (tracking steps, workouts, and heart rate)
- Samsung Notes (quick access to notes and reminders)
- Voice Recorder (easy playback and recording control)
- Google Assistant & Bixby (voice command shortcuts)
- Clock (upcoming alarms and timers)
- Interpreter (live translations)
Even better, Now Bar also works on the Always-On Display (AOD), allowing users to check live updates without waking or unlocking their devices.
Will Now Bar Be Available for All Galaxy Phones?
While Now Bar is rolling out with One UI 7, there are concerns that it may not be available on mid-range Galaxy devices or Fan Edition (FE) models. One reason is that these phones have under-display fingerprint scanners positioned low on the screen, potentially conflicting with Now Bar’s placement. Samsung may reposition the Now Bar slightly higher in future updates, but this remains to be seen.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Upgrade for Samsung Users
The integration of Google Maps with Now Bar marks a major step forward in smartphone navigation convenience. Samsung users can now access critical route information instantly, improving the overall user experience. As One UI 7 rolls out to more devices, expect additional refinements and enhancements to Now Bar functionality.
Have You Tried Now Bar Yet?
Are you using Now Bar on your Galaxy device? Let us know in the comments below! Stay tuned for more updates on the latest Samsung and Google innovations.
