One UI 7: Revamped widgets and design, with Android 16’s advanced protection on the horizon

Samsung is preparing to introduce exciting new features with its upcoming One UI 7 and One UI 8 updates. These software upgrades are set to bring significant changes, especially in terms of visual design and security. Let’s explore what to expect from these updates and how they’ll enhance your Galaxy experience.

One UI 7: A Fresh Look with Dynamic Widgets

One UI 7, based on Android 15, promises a fresh look for your Samsung Galaxy. With a delayed release, this update is still in development, but early leaks show some impressive changes. Among the most talked-about features are the brand-new widgets, designed to offer more functionality and style to your home screen.

Dynamic Clock and Calendar Widgets

One UI 7 will feature new widgets for Clock and Calendar. These widgets will come in a larger format, possibly replacing the traditional 2×2 size. The design will feature a sleek, blurred background, giving your home screen a modern, clean look. Users will have both analog and digital clock options, similar to the widgets iPhone users have enjoyed in iOS for years.

Routines Widget

Samsung is also improving the Routines widget. This new version will fit into a 2×2 space and display four routines at a glance. The design will align with the blur transparency seen in the clock and calendar widgets, matching the overall aesthetic of One UI 7.

Pill-Shaped Widgets

New pill-shaped widgets are also part of the update. These will include options like Weather, Clock, and Screen Time widgets. If you’ve seen widgets from OxygenOS or ColorOS over the past two years, you’ll notice a similar look. Samsung is aiming to streamline your home screen experience, providing a cleaner, more dynamic interface.

As One UI 7 continues to develop, we expect more widgets and features to be revealed. The current offering already looks promising, focusing on both aesthetics and usability.

One UI 8: The Power of Android 16’s Advanced Protection

While One UI 7 is generating excitement with its design overhaul, One UI 8 is likely to focus on security with the integration of Android 16’s Advanced Protection features. Android 16, expected to arrive on Galaxy devices with One UI 8, is rumored to bring powerful new security measures that could change how apps and accounts are managed.

Advanced Protection Features in Android 16

Google is working on Advanced Protection for Android 16, and it could come to Galaxy phones with One UI 8. This security program will include new settings and APIs, allowing apps to detect whether users have Advanced Protection enabled and adjust their behavior accordingly.

One of the key features of Advanced Protection is restricting app installations. Much like Samsung’s current Auto Blocker, which prevents apps from being installed from unauthorized sources, Android 16 could enforce this protection across all devices. Users enrolled in Advanced Protection will likely only be able to download apps from the Google Play Store or Galaxy Store.

Enhanced Security Controls

Android 16’s Advanced Protection could also bring new controls for sensitive information. For instance, the system may require additional authentication when accessing protected files or banking information. This added layer of security will make it harder for unauthorized users or malicious apps to access sensitive data.

Users will likely be able to enroll in Advanced Protection through the Settings menu. Once enrolled, your Google Account will stay signed in, and apps will adjust their behavior based on your security status. A recent patch in AOSP Gerrit shows that Google is already developing the API for this feature, and apps will soon be able to check if Advanced Protection is enabled on your device.

What to Expect from Samsung’s Future Updates

Samsung’s One UI 7 and 8 are shaping up to be major software updates for Galaxy users. One UI 7 is all about design, with dynamic widgets that will make your home screen more customizable and visually appealing. On the other hand, One UI 8 is set to focus on security, with Android 16’s Advanced Protection features providing greater control over your apps and data.

With these updates, Samsung is pushing its Galaxy lineup to offer not just a smoother, more intuitive experience, but also stronger security for its users. Whether you’re excited about the visual refresh or the enhanced protection, these updates will likely transform how you use your Galaxy device shortly.

Keep an eye on Samsung’s announcements for more details on the official release dates and additional features these updates will bring.