Samsung has officially announced the rollout of the One UI 7 beta program, marking a significant milestone in its software development journey. The update, based on Android 15, comes a month after its initial unveiling at the Samsung Developer Conference (SDC) 2024 held in San Jose, California. With a host of new features, the update promises to enhance user experience through visual upgrades, improved customisation, and a suite of cutting-edge AI tools.
Availability and Eligible Devices
The One UI 7 beta program is now live for users of the Galaxy S24 series in selected regions, including Germany, India, Korea, Poland, the UK, and the US. Interested users can enrol in the program through the Samsung Members app. However, Samsung has clarified that the availability of features may vary based on the region.
The update supports 29 languages, including popular local dialects like Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Vietnamese, and variations of English, French, and Spanish tailored to specific regions.
Key Features of One UI 7 Beta
1. Purposeful Simplicity and Enhanced Customisation
Samsung’s design philosophy for One UI 7 revolves around three core principles: purposeful simplicity, signature impression, and emotional attachment.
•Visual Upgrades: The update introduces a refined notification system called the Now Bar, making it easier to access notifications directly from the lock screen. This feature allows users to view app-specific activities such as Interpreter, Music, Recording, and Stopwatch, offering key details without unlocking the device.
•Widgets Redesign: One UI widgets have been revamped for a cleaner and more intuitive experience.
•Lock Screen Enhancements: Users can expect a more interactive and personalised lock screen.
2. Camera App Redesign
Samsung has overhauled the native Camera app, focusing on simplicity and usability:
•Reorganised Controls: Buttons, modes, and settings have been repositioned for better accessibility.
•Pro and Pro Video Modes: These modes now feature simplified settings and a zoom control option for smooth transitions, catering to both amateur and professional photographers.
3. Galaxy AI Integration
A standout feature of the One UI 7 beta is the advanced Galaxy AI capabilities:
•Integrated Writing Tools: These tools allow users to edit text seamlessly within the operating system. Features like grammar and spell checks, tone adjustments, text summarisation, and bulleted list creation are now built into the OS, eliminating the need for third-party apps.
•Call Transcripts: Supporting 20 languages, this feature generates automatic transcripts of recorded conversations.
•Smart Task Management: AI tools reduce visual clutter, making multitasking more efficient.
Beyond One UI 7: Samsung’s Innovation Push
In a related development, Samsung has secured a patent for a tri-fold smartphone with a specialised barrier layer designed to improve durability. This innovation underscores the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of smartphone technology.
How to Join the Beta Program
To participate in the One UI 7 beta program:
1.Download the Samsung Members App: Available on the Galaxy Store or Google Play Store.
2.Log In: Use your Samsung account to sign in.
3.Register for Beta: Navigate to the “One UI Beta Program” section and enrol.
The One UI 7 beta reflects Samsung’s ambition to lead the Android ecosystem with thoughtful design and innovative features. With its rollout to the Galaxy S24 series and the promise of exclusive capabilities for upcoming devices, the update sets the stage for a more intelligent and user-centric smartphone experience.
Users eagerly await the full release of One UI 7, which is expected to set a new standard for Android-based operating systems.