Samsung Releases First Beta of One UI 7 Based on Android 15

Samsung has announced the first beta version of its new One UI 7 user interface, based on Android 15. This is one of the largest updates Samsung has released in recent years, offering numerous new features, both functional and visual. Currently, the update is available only for users of the Galaxy S24 series, including the S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra models, and is limited to certain countries. The full release of One UI 7 is expected in the first quarter of 2025, alongside the launch of the Galaxy S25 series. Interface Changes One of the most noticeable changes in One UI 7 is the new arrangement of interface elements. The notification shade and the quick settings shade are now separate. This layout is set as the default, but users can revert to the previous design, as it was in One UI 6. Additionally, the app menu behavior has changed. It now scrolls vertically, aligning with trends seen in other user interfaces. However, users can still return to the old horizontal page layout if they prefer. Icons and Widgets In One UI 7, users can modify the appearance of app icons by removing their labels, and on the other hand, they can now add labels to widgets. Additionally, the size of icons and folders can be adjusted according to personal preferences. Multitasking and New Menus One UI 7 introduces a new multitasking menu, replacing the old "one app at a time" mode. The system now displays two or three apps simultaneously, in a design resembling a rolodex. This feature is partly inspired by multitasking in Android and is also similar to iOS’s approach. Features Similar to the "Dynamic Island" Samsung has introduced two features that resemble the "Dynamic Island" seen on iPhones: 1. Now Bar — A panel that appears on the lock screen, showing information such as battery status, music playback, timers, and more. 2. Live Notifications — New notifications in the status bar that display more information than standard notifications. Tapping on them reveals quick controls for interaction. Updates in the "Clock" App and Battery Improvements The "Clock" app now offers new features for alarms. Users can set the same volume for all alarms and create alarm groups that can be toggled on or off simultaneously. Another important improvement concerns battery charging. One UI 7 introduces a new charging animation on the lock screen. This animation no longer takes up the entire screen but is now displayed on the battery icon in the top corner. Moreover, users can now set charging limits at various intervals. Previously limited to 80%, users can now select charging limits at 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95%, helping to extend the battery lifespan. Availability and Upcoming Updates Currently, the One UI 7 beta is available only for Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra users in specific countries. In the coming months, the update will be rolled out to more regions and devices. The full release of One UI 7 is expected in the first quarter of 2025, coinciding with the launch of the Galaxy S25 series. One UI 7 promises to be a significant step forward for Samsung’s user interface, offering a wide range of new features and improvements that will make using their devices even more convenient and functional.