One UI Archives

AppWizard

April 5, 2025

How do you use Android app shortcuts?

App shortcuts were introduced with Android 7.1 in October 2016 and have seen user interface changes while retaining their functionality. They provide quick access to specific tasks within applications. Commonly used app shortcuts include Chrome's New Tab, Play Store's My apps, Gmail account shortcuts, Fitbit's Log Water, Files by Google: Downloads, Google Calendar: New task, Google Keep: New text note, Google Maps: Home and Work, and Pixel Camera: Take a selfie and Take a video. Users can access shortcuts by long-pressing application icons rather than cluttering their homescreen. Improvements suggested include the ability to hide unused shortcuts, a more compact presentation, and a layout without text labels for easier one-handed use. There are currently limitations on the number of shortcuts per app, and some users find the long-press action on Pixel Launcher and Samsung’s One UI distracting.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

How to change to a vertical scrolling app drawer on One UI 7

Samsung has introduced a vertical scrolling app drawer in One UI 7, responding to user demand. This update is available for the Galaxy S25 series and for users who upgrade to One UI 7. The rollout for older devices has faced delays, with beta versions currently available for Galaxy S24 owners and a final build expected in early April. New features in One UI 7 include the Now Bar, which provides real-time updates, and Now Brief, offering personalized briefings. Other features include cross-app action, audio eraser, auto trim, and AI drawing assist. The Galaxy S25 Ultra features a larger display, improved ultrawide camera, and lighter design compared to its predecessor.

AppWizard

March 27, 2025

What you need to know about One UI 7: Software is hard

Samsung initially aimed to deliver the One UI 7 update to eligible Galaxy S phones by Q1 2025, but this timeline will not be met, with a new expected arrival date in April. The recent launch of the Galaxy S25, which includes the update, has added to user frustration. Users have formed distinct groups in response to the situation: some vow to stop purchasing Samsung devices, others rationalize the delays by blaming Google, and some remain indifferent as long as their devices function properly. The situation highlights issues in communication and transparency from Samsung regarding software updates.

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

Report claims Google may move to ‘privately’ develop Android’s future

Google plans to transition to a more private development approach for its Android OS, resulting in a slowdown of releases for the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). This shift aims to streamline development and reduce merging conflicts. While Google will continue to release open-source code, the frequency of these releases will be adjusted. Android 16 has achieved Platform Stability and is expected to launch in Q2 2025. The transition is designed to minimize disruptions for end-users and improve the efficiency of the development cycle. An announcement regarding this new direction is anticipated soon.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

Samsung wants third-party apps to be compatible with Now Bar

Samsung is planning to enhance its One UI 7 experience by integrating several third-party applications into the Now Bar feature. Speculated apps include Kakao T, Naver Sports, YouTube, and YouTube Music. The inclusion of Naver Sports may allow users to stay updated on their favorite teams and events, similar to Google Sports. Additionally, Samsung intends to implement "forced" support for all third-party applications, broadening the Now Bar's capabilities. There are also rumors of a dedicated Good Lock module for customizing the Now Bar's appearance. Samsung has already improved access to sports scores and team updates with a recent Google Sports update.

AppWizard

March 13, 2025

Android 16 Beta 3 achieves ‘Platform Stability,’ brings extended Auracast support

Google has released Android 16 Beta 3, featuring new accessibility tools including Text Outline for low-vision users and Local Network Protection for enhanced app access control. The beta also expands Auracast compatibility, allowing audio broadcasting from a single source to multiple receivers, particularly benefiting hearing aid users in noisy environments. Only LE audio-compatible hearing aids from manufacturers like GN Hearing and Starkey will be supported. Samsung Galaxy devices with One UI 7 and Pixel 9 devices can connect to public audio streams. A QR code standard has been developed for easier access to broadcasts, with Pixel 9 users receiving priority access. Android 16 is expected to be publicly released in late June.

AppWizard

March 7, 2025

Google will show off some of Android 16’s tricks as it gears for early release

Google's Head of Android announced that Android 16 is scheduled for a June release, utilizing the 'Trunk Stable' development process. Sameer Samat, President of the Android ecosystem, expressed optimism about the progress and bug count of Android 16. Google plans to unveil several features from the update before its release but is still deciding on the rollout strategy. Speculation suggests that Samsung may skip incremental updates and move directly to One UI 8 due to delays with One UI 7, which is expected in April.

AppWizard

March 7, 2025

Samsung confirms two Health app updates for Galaxy as we spring forward

Samsung will introduce two new features for its Health app on Galaxy phones later this month to help users manage the transition to Daylight Savings Time. The first feature, the Sleep Environment Report, will analyze factors like room temperature and humidity to improve sleep quality. The second feature, an Activity Consistency metric, will enhance the Health app's Energy Score, allowing users to track their daily activity levels and health trends over the past four weeks. These updates are designed for devices running One UI 7, starting with the Galaxy S25 series, with a broader rollout expected in April.

AppWizard

March 3, 2025

Samsung confirms it will drop Members app support for a near-decade old OS

Samsung will discontinue support for its Members app on devices running Android 7, effective April 1, 2025, requiring users to upgrade to Android 8 or later. Users have expressed surprise at the longevity of support for Android 7, which has not received significant updates since 2019. Samsung is also working on One UI 7, which has faced delays due to testing issues, and recently released One UI 7 Beta 5 to address bugs. The anticipated launch of One UI 7 is expected in Q1 2025 for eligible Galaxy devices.

AppWizard

March 3, 2025

More Android phones should copy how the Xiaomi 15 offers its AI writing tools

The Xiaomi 15 series integrates AI writing tools directly into the Android text selection menu, allowing users to summarize, proofread, extend, or rewrite text across all applications. Users can access these features by selecting text and tapping the AI writing button in the selection menu. In contrast, competitors like Google Pixel and OnePlus limit their AI writing capabilities to specific first-party applications. Samsung's upcoming One UI 7 update will also enable system-wide access to AI writing features, indicating a potential trend in the smartphone industry towards broader integration of such tools.