What you need to know
Samsung is reportedly setting the stage for an exciting enhancement to its One UI 7 experience, particularly focusing on the Now Bar feature. According to a recent report by ETNews, the tech giant is “planning” to integrate several third-party applications into this functionality, aiming to enrich user interaction and streamline access to various services.
While the complete roster of apps remains under wraps, speculation suggests that popular platforms such as Kakao T, Naver Sports, YouTube, and YouTube Music could soon find their place within the Now Bar. This move appears to align with Samsung’s strategy to maintain consistency across its offerings, especially with the newly launched Galaxy S25 series, which prominently features cross-app actions.
The potential inclusion of Naver Sports is particularly intriguing, as it may mirror the capabilities of Google Sports, allowing users to stay updated on their favorite teams and events. Additionally, the mention of YouTube and YouTube Music hints at a broader integration of entertainment options, although these apps have yet to be officially installed in the Now Bar.
Adding to the intrigue, a tipster recently hinted at Samsung’s intention to implement “forced” support for all third-party applications, which would significantly broaden the Now Bar’s capabilities. This aligns with ongoing discussions about enhancing customization options, with rumors suggesting the introduction of a dedicated Good Lock module. This feature could empower users to personalize the Now Bar’s appearance, including its color, size, and animations.
In the meantime, Samsung has already made strides with its recent Google Sports update, which facilitates easier access to sports scores and team updates. This enhancement allows users to navigate through “Following” and “Recommended” tabs, making it simpler to manage notifications and stay connected to their favorite teams.
