Samsung is edging closer to releasing its much-anticipated One UI 7, built on Android 15. With new features, performance improvements, and refined designs, the update aims to elevate the user experience across Galaxy devices. Here’s an in-depth look at the latest developments.
One UI 7 Testing Begins with Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Galaxy S24 series is expected to be the first lineup to receive One UI 7. A new test build for the Galaxy S24 Ultra was recently discovered on CheckFirm, signaling that Samsung is putting the finishing touches on its beta version. The updated version has progressed from ZXKV to ZXKY, indicating active refinement. This points to a likely beta release by mid-December, as hinted by Samsung during its SDC24 event.
Galaxy S24: New One UI 7 Beta build updated on the server
ZXKV ➡️ ZXKY (last Nov build🤪)
Build Version: S928BXXU4ZXKY/S928BOXM4ZXKY/S928BXXU4BXKY#GalaxyS24 #Samsung #OneUI7 pic.twitter.com/pJ4Z7ths4P
— Tarun Vats (@tarunvats33) December 1, 2024
The stable version is anticipated to roll out globally in February 2025, coinciding with the launch of the Galaxy S25 series.
Features to Watch Out For in One UI 7
One UI 7 is set to introduce an array of enhancements aimed at improving functionality and aesthetics. Key updates include:
- Simplified Interface: A cleaner and more intuitive layout for seamless navigation.
- Performance Boosts: Faster app responsiveness and overall system fluidity.
- Customization Options: Expanded tools for personalizing device themes, widgets, and layouts.
- Revamped Samsung Apps: Subtle yet significant tweaks to core apps like Calculator and Calendar.
Fresh Changes in Samsung Apps
Samsung Calculator Update
The One UI 7 Calculator app retains its minimalist design but introduces larger numbers, symbols, and text, improving readability. While the layout remains similar to its One UI 6 counterpart, this small update enhances usability for all users.
Samsung Calendar Icon
A fresh new icon design debuts with One UI 7, featuring green, black, and gray colors along with symbols like a plus, minus, and equal sign. The redesign aligns with Samsung’s commitment to visual consistency across its app suite.
Chrome for Android: iOS-Inspired Animations
Samsung isn’t alone in taking inspiration from Apple. The Chrome browser for Android is also prepping iOS-style gesture animations for smoother back-and-forward navigation.
What’s New in Chrome Canary?
The experimental version of Chrome introduces a feature called “back-forward visual transitions.” This update brings:
- Smoother Gesture Animations: Enhanced visual appeal when navigating through history.
- Better Page Rendering: Leveraging the Back/Forward Cache (bfcache) API for faster page transitions.
These changes promise to deliver a polished and fluid browsing experience. The beta feature is currently available for testing, with a wider release expected in 2024.
One UI 7: Expected Release Timeline
- Mid-December 2024: Beta rollout for Galaxy S24 users.
- January 2025: Official unveiling with the Galaxy S25 series.
- February 2025: Public rollout of the stable One UI 7 version to Galaxy devices, including:
- Galaxy S24 and S23 series
- Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6
- Galaxy A55 and more
Samsung vs. Apple: Competition Heats Up
As Samsung pushes One UI 7, it’s clear the brand aims to rival Apple’s iOS 18. The competition is not just about features but also about delivering smoother animations, faster performance, and more visually appealing designs. By integrating such refinements, Samsung is strengthening its position in the premium smartphone market.
Final Thoughts
One UI 7 is shaping up to be a significant upgrade for Samsung users. With a mix of aesthetic improvements, functional enhancements, and iOS-inspired tweaks, Samsung is redefining its software experience. As we await the beta launch and subsequent stable release, Galaxy users can expect a transformative update that prioritizes both form and function.