Samsung's upcoming One UI 7 software update for Galaxy devices appears to be bringing some significant and potentially controversial changes, according to recent leaks from the Samsung Developer Conference (SDC) 2024.
While Samsung has not officially unveiled One UI 7 yet, early versions of the software were spotted running on Galaxy S24 Ultra devices at code stations during SDC. These unofficial previews have given us our first glimpse at what Samsung may be planning for its next major Android skin update.
Split Notifications and Quick Settings
One of the most notable changes is the apparent split between notifications and Quick Settings tiles. This mirrors a similar change Google is rumored to be implementing in a future Android version. In the leaked One UI 7 build:
- Notifications and Quick Settings are on separate pages
- Both sections feature a more rounded design
- The Quick Settings area now includes both brightness and volume sliders
This change could streamline access to settings but may require users to adapt to a new navigation flow.
Redesigned Icons
Several core Samsung app icons have received significant makeovers:
- The Gallery app icon now features a colorful rainbow gradient
- The Camera app icon has been completely redesigned to resemble a more realistic camera
- The Settings icon takes cues from iOS with a gear design
- Other apps like Contacts, Phone, and Galaxy Store also sport updated looks
Some users may find the new icons refreshing, while others might see them as moving away from Samsung's established design language.
Potential Release Delay
Despite these leaks, the full release of One UI 7 may still be some time away. Renowned Samsung tipster Ice Universe suggests that One UI 7 won't be released for quite some time, potentially pushing the launch into 2025.
AI Enhancements
When One UI 7 does arrive, it's expected to bring more AI features, particularly to the Gallery app. AI-powered search capabilities are among the rumored improvements.
It's important to note that as these are early leaks, Samsung may make further changes before the final release. The controversial nature of some changes, particularly the split notification system, means that user feedback could influence the final design decisions.
As we await official announcements from Samsung, these leaks provide an intriguing preview of the potential future direction for Galaxy devices. Stay tuned for more updates as Samsung continues to develop One UI 7.