Samsung has started the One UI 7 beta for Galaxy devices, allowing us to preview Android 15 on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Here’s a quick look at what’s new and exciting in the latest update.
Key Features of Android 15 and One UI 7 on Galaxy S24
Redesigned Interface
- Rounded Design: Buttons, menus, and notifications now feature smoother, rounded designs.
- Separate Panels: Notifications and quick settings are split. Swipe down from the top-right for quick settings, and from anywhere else for notifications.
- Stacked Notifications: Notifications from the same app are grouped like cards for easier viewing.
- Customizable Icons and Widgets: Adjust widget sizes, text labels, and icon styles on the home screen. Larger folders let you access apps directly.
Vertical App Screen
- Vertical Scrolling: Apps can now be scrolled vertically when sorted alphabetically. Custom sorting retains horizontal scrolling.
Lock Screen and Always On Display (AOD)
- Now Bar: Quickly access ongoing tasks like music playback, voice recording, or Samsung Health stats from the bottom of the lock screen.
- Clock Customization: New animated styles and flexible placement options for the lock screen clock.
- Enhanced Shortcuts: Add shortcuts for actions like enabling power saving or scanning QR codes directly from the lock screen.
Camera Improvements
- Simplified Layout: Key controls are easier to find, and modes no longer cover the entire screen.
- Mode-Specific Settings: The app remembers exposure settings for each mode.
- Pro Mode Updates: Improved zoom controls and better layout for easier adjustments.
- Composition Guide: Enhanced tools for aligning shots, including vertical level indicators.
Battery and Performance
- Charging Limits: Set a maximum charge between 80% and 95% to extend battery life.
- Energy Saving Tweaks: Adjust power-saving components without turning off the mode entirely.
Productivity Enhancements
- Advanced Routines: Use if-else logic and variables in Samsung’s automation routines.
- Improved File Picker: Easier file selection and preview across apps.
- App Previews: See minimized app previews before opening them.
AI Features
- Text Assistance: Samsung’s AI can correct grammar, summarize text, or generate new content based on selected text.
- Live Transcriptions: Convert recorded conversations into readable text within the Samsung Phone app.
Accessibility
- Single-Finger Zoom: Swipe up or down with one finger to zoom in or out, making navigation easier.
- Game Booster Updates: Adjust game settings without exiting and optimize performance or battery usage per game.
Additional Features
- Enhanced Notifications: Live updates for ongoing activities like timers and workouts.
- Media Editing: Undo video edits, animate text and stickers, and remove objects directly in the gallery.
- Health Updates: Mindfulness tools, medication reminders, and new badges in Samsung Health.
Smooth Performance, Early Testing
The first beta feels smooth and responsive on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. While these features are exciting, more changes may come during the beta phase, and not all features might make it to the final version.
Availability
The One UI 7 beta is currently open in select regions, including Germany, India, Korea, and the US. Users in other countries, like the Netherlands and Belgium, will need to wait for the final release in early 2025.
Stay tuned as we explore more updates and share details about compatible devices. Android 15 and One UI 7 promise significant upgrades to your Galaxy experience.
